Welcome to the Big Sur Marathon Foundation.
We’re the 501(c)3 nonprofit behind two of California’s most iconic races, the Big Sur International Marathon and the Monterey Bay Half Marathon. Since 1986, our mission has been simple: bring people together through world-class endurance events while giving back to the community that makes them possible.
Over the years, our community of runners has helped us give back over $6.7 million (& counting) to local schools, nonprofits, public safety, and environmental organizations in Monterey County.
See you on the coastline 👋🏃
Mark your calendars! Registration for our sister race, the Monterey Bay Half Marathon opens in just ONE week on May 20 at 8 AM PT. Race weekend is November 7-8, and you won't want to miss this stunning out-and-back course that starts in downtown Monterey and winds along the scenic Pacific Grove coastline. With another sellout expected by mid-summer, you’ll want to be ready to lock in your spot right when registration opens.
🗓️ Race Weekend Events
👟 Pacific Grove Lighthouse 5K - Saturday, Nov. 7
👟 By-the-Bay 3K - Saturday, Nov. 7
👟 Monterey Bay Half Marathon - Sunday, Nov. 8
🌊 P.S. The Ocean View Challenge lets you take on the 5K AND the Half Marathon to earn some extra swag!
Meet @Ashley_McAvoy 👋
Ashley is Big Sur’s top fundraiser this year. She ran the 11-Miler with Gray Nation Endurance Team, raising $45K (all from individual donations 🤯) for @natlbraintumorsociety 💛 in memory of her grandma and her dad.
We are SO incredibly inspired by Ashley’s spirit, determination, and her tenacity.
Thank you for running with us and for sharing your story with us, Ashley 🫶
We are proud to make a BIG impact with Big Sur International Marathon! 🌊🏃♂️
This year’s race was nothing short of incredible. The energy, the people, and those unforgettable coastal views all came together to create a truly memorable experience.
By choosing sustainable apparel, we’re able to reduce our environmental footprint while leaving a lasting impression through unique merchandise and participant tees.
Want more from race weekend? Tune into Recover’s Be The Impact Podcast to hear directly from the team. Link in Recover’s bio. #BeTheImpact #BigSur
From Carmel Valley Manor to the coast of Highway 1!
Residents and staff of the 65+ living community of Carmel Valley Manor showed up in a big way at the 2026 race, taking on the 5K and 12K together. Staying active is a big part of their community, and this year they brought that energy to Big Sur, and crushed the course. 👏
Another incredible year in the books on Highway 1!
Thank you to every runner who showed up and made 2026 so special. You are the heart of the Big Sur International Marathon 🌊🏃♂️🏁
P.S. Save the Date for our 40th annual event on April 25, 2027. We'll announce registration details later this summer.
We loved having special guests @litoffstudios , @noah_droddy , and @salty_linds join podcaster @lindseyhein626 at our Expo Clinic on Saturday.
The conversation around commitment, community, and creativity in running was honest, relatable, and full of insight, covering everything from building consistency to finding your people and keeping the sport fun along the way.
It might not have been pouring at this year's BSIM, but runners were still pushing limits! Loved being a part of everyone's journey this year. Can't wait for next year!
POV: Your last Fleet Feet purchase turned into running the Big Sur Marathon – all expenses paid with @hoka .
You’re already running. You might as well get rewarded for it. Become a Fleet Feet Milestones member today at fleetfeet.com/rewards.
Way to represent, @j_kugel 🎉
#FleetFeet #BigSurMarathon #Hoka
Medal Monday energy is the best energy 🏅⚡️🏃 Congratulations to all our runners on an incredible race. We’re so glad you joined us on Highway 1 for the 39th presentation of the Big Sur International Marathon.
Make that medal even more special with @itabofficial — personalize it with your name and finish time on a custom plate that attaches neatly to the back. Order yours through the link in our bio.
