Marathon

Big Sur International Marathon

Big Sur is a bucket-list point-to-point on Highway 1, where ocean views, Bixby Bridge, and Hurricane Point matter more than easy splits or PR math.

Next raceSunday, April 25, 2027
Distance categoryMarathon
LocationCarmel, California
Boston qualifierYes

Every link above goes to the race, its timing provider, or an official registration partner. Last checked August 4, 2026.

Quick facts

  • Point-to-point highway course from Big Sur to Carmel.
  • Official Boston qualifier with about a 6-hour limit.
  • Entry often depends on drawing, charity, or travel-package paths.
  • Scenic payoff is huge, but Hurricane Point keeps it from being an easy speed course.

2027 Big Sur International Marathon registration

Registration for the 2027 Big Sur International Marathon runs through the official registration page at bigsurmarathon.org.

About the Big Sur International Marathon

Runners do not pick Big Sur because it is simple. They pick it because very few marathons feel this specific: coastal California scenery, limited entry, and a route that asks for more patience and logistics planning than a typical road marathon.

Course

The course runs south to north on Highway 1 from Big Sur to Carmel, with Bixby Bridge around halfway, the piano performance, and the long climb over Hurricane Point shaping the day. It is certified and qualifying eligible, but the terrain makes it a strength race far more than a pure PR setup.

Race-day weather

Late April on the Big Sur coast can start chilly and damp, then shift with sun, wind, and marine air over the next few hours. Conditions are rarely extreme, but the open highway means you feel every change.

Past Big Sur International Marathon dates and results

YearDateStatusResults
2027Sunday, April 25, 2027Upcoming
2026Sunday, April 26, 2026CompletedOpen results
2025Sunday, April 27, 2025CompletedOpen results
2024Sunday, April 28, 2024CompletedOpen results

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Big Sur International Marathon FAQ

When is the Big Sur International Marathon?

The 2027 Big Sur International Marathon is on Sunday, April 25, 2027.

How do I register for the Big Sur International Marathon?

Register for the Big Sur International Marathon through the official registration link: marathonscout.com/go/big-sur-international-marathon/register. It opens the race registration page at bigsurmarathon.org.

Can I use the Big Sur International Marathon for Boston qualifying?

Marathon Scout marks the Big Sur International Marathon course as a Boston qualifier. Check the current Boston qualifying times and confirm current course certification with the race before registering. Starting with 2027 registration, the B.A.A. adds 5 minutes to times from courses with 1,500 to 2,999 feet of net downhill and 10 minutes to courses with 3,000 to 5,999 feet, and does not accept courses with 6,000 feet or more. See the net-downhill course index if this course loses significant elevation.

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