The ASICS Gold Coast Marathon is a premier world-class road race in Australia, renowned for its flat and fast beachside course perfect for personal bests.
Course Highlights
The ASICS Gold Coast Marathon course is celebrated globally as one of the flattest, fastest, and most scenic routes in distance running. With a total elevation gain of just 62 meters, the track is a prime destination for runners looking to set personal bests or secure qualifying times for major international events. The 42.195km journey takes participants along 29 kilometers of stunning beachside roads, offering constant ocean breezes and spectacular views of the Gold Coast’s iconic surf beaches. Starting at the Broadwater Parklands in Southport, the route winds south to a turn point in Miami before heading back north through the city’s heart to Runaway Bay, eventually finishing back at the vibrant race precinct in Southport.
Race Details
The 2026 edition of the Gold Coast Marathon is scheduled for July 4-5, making it a perfect winter escape for athletes. The marquee marathon event kicks off on Sunday, July 5, at 06:15, with a strict course cut-off time of 6 hours and 40 minutes from the last wave start. The weekend is a comprehensive running festival featuring a variety of distances, including the China Airlines Half Marathon, Southern Cross University 10km Run, Gold Coast Airport 5km, and specialized wheelchair races. For the truly ambitious, the “Gold Coast Double” (63.3km) allows runners to compete in both the half marathon on Saturday and the full marathon on Sunday. Every participant is supported by 16 well-stocked aid stations and professional medical teams, ensuring a safe and elite-level racing experience.
Why Runners Love It
Since its inception on September 2, 1979, the Gold Coast Marathon has grown from a local community event into a world-class athletic festival with a deep history. Runners love the event for its electric atmosphere, characterized by thousands of spectators who line the streets to cheer on participants with the famous “good times” spirit. The Gold Coast’s mild winter climate, with temperatures typically ranging between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius, provides ideal conditions for endurance running. Beyond the finish line, athletes can celebrate their achievement in Australia’s premier holiday destination, which boasts world-class theme parks, award-winning restaurants, and golden beaches. The event’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its World Athletics Label status, attracting elite international fields and dedicated amateurs alike who return year after year to be part of this iconic Australian tradition.
At a Glance
- Location: Gold Coast, Queensland — Australia
- Next Date: 2026-07-05
- Distances: Marathon (42.195km), Half Marathon (21.1km), 10km, 5km, 2km Junior Dash, 63.3km Double, Wheelchair Marathon, Wheelchair 10km, Wheelchair 5km
- Start Time: 06:15
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://goldcoastmarathon.com.au




