NEW! Pace Bands on Your Phone. LEARN MORE...

Marathon Pace Bands

Marathon Pace Bands

Run the Right Pace in Your Next Marathon

Nearly 500 marathon courses.
Ships same or Next Day

Best Boston Marathon Qualifiers for 2026

Best Boston Marathon Qualifiers

It's here! Our annual list of the year's
best marathons to help you qualify for the Boston Marathon.

2026 IS HERE!



Big Sur International Marathon

Carmel, CA
Sunday, April 25, 2027


  5 Stars from 17 Reviews

Course Description

The Big Sur International Marathon is a challenging, point-to-point road course run entirely on California Highway 1. Starting in Big Sur and finishing in Carmel, the race is defined by its scenic views and significant elevation changes. It is widely considered one of the most scenic and difficult marathons in the country, featuring a strictly enforced 6-hour time limit.

Course Layout and Terrain

The course is run on paved asphalt but presents a technical challenge due to the natural crowning of Highway 1; runners often find the slanted surface of the road as taxing as the hills themselves. The layout is a net-loss course, but the "net" figure is misleading as it contains over 1,654 feet of total elevation gain and 1,949 feet of loss.

Elevation and Notable Sections

The topography is hilly and relentless, with the most significant obstacles concentrated in the first 15 miles.

  • Hurricane Point (Miles 10–12): This is the course's signature climb, a 2-mile steady ascent with a 5% grade that rises 560 feet. This section is highly exposed to the winds that give the point its name.
  • Bixby Bridge (Mile 13.1): The midpoint of the race features the iconic crossing of the Bixby Bridge. While a flat reprieve, it is followed immediately by additional rolling hills.
  • The Highlands (Miles 22–25): While the first half is often cited as the hardest, the "Doud Hill" at Mile 22 and the subsequent rolling climbs through the Carmel Highlands are where many runners struggle, as the cumulative elevation gain takes its toll.

This is may not be a PR (Personal Record) course for many, but it is one of the "must-do" races in the country. The combination of 13 significant hills, the slanted road surface, and potential 20+ mph headwinds makes it a "bucket list" experience rather than a PR attempt. PR attempts usually fall apart at Hurricane Point or during the final three miles of rolling hills in the Highlands. It is best suited for strong hill runners who prioritize mental toughness and scenery over a specific finishing time.


April Other Marathons in April Other Marathons in California Marathons near Carmel, CA



Marathon Pace Bands

Want to run your best Big Sur International Marathon?

Don't waste months of training only to run the wrong pace.


Big Sur International Marathon Pace Bands are adjusted for the specific terrain of the course, your goal time and pacing strategies.



Only $9.99




Race Information

Race Dates

2027: Sunday, April 25, 2027
2026: Sunday, April 26, 2026

Course Information

Profile: Hilly
Type: Point to Point
Surface: Road/Pavement

Boston Qualifier?: Yes
World Marathon Major Qualifier?: Yes

Race Day Weather

Mean Temp.: 54°F (12°C)
Average High: 61°F (16°C)
Average Low: 46° F (7°C)




PR Score & Course Score

PR Score: 97.43
Course Score: 97.43

Race Size

2026: 3,222 Finishers
2025: 3,318 Finishers
2024: 3,424 Finishers
2023: 3,633 Finishers
2022: 3,324 Finishers
2021: No Results

BQ Percentages

2026: 4.5%
2025: 3.6%
2024: 7.3%
2023: 3.5%
2022: 4.4%
2021: N/A

Miscellaneous Information

Pace Groups?: No

Weather Averages for Last 12 Years


Race Day Temperatures

High: 61°F  (16°C)
Low: 48°F  (9°C)

Race Start Conditions

51°F  (11°C)
Humidity: 88%

Partly Cloudy
N 4 mph

PR Score

97.11

Course Score

97.43






Big Sur International Marathon Rankings, Course Speed & Boston Qualifier Statistics

The Big Sur International Marathon was the 28th largest marathon in the U.S. in 2025 based on the number of finishers. In 2024, it ranked as the 25th largest marathon in the U.S..

In 2026, 4.5% of Big Sur International Marathon finishers have achieved Boston Marathon qualifying times. In 2025, 3.6% of finishers qualified for the Boston Marathon.

Based on its percentage of Boston Qualifiers (BQs), the Big Sur International Marathon ranked 344th among marathons in the U.S. in 2025 and currently ranks 145th so far in 2026. In California, it ranked 25th in 2025 and 12th so far in 2026. These rankings provide a useful benchmark for comparing the Big Sur International Marathon with other Boston Marathon qualifying races.

The Big Sur International Marathon has a Course Score of 97.43, ranking it as the 382nd fastest marathon course in the U.S. and the 32nd fastest marathon course in California.

Typical race-time temperature and humidity levels are within the ideal range for optimal marathon performance. Combined with the course profile, this gives the Big Sur International Marathon a PR Score of 97.43. The PR Score ranks the Big Sur International Marathon as the 329th best marathon in the U.S. for running a Personal Record (PR) and the 24th best marathon for a PR in California.

Together, these rankings provide a quick snapshot of how the Big Sur International Marathon compares with other marathons in the U.S. and California for speed, PR potential, Boston Marathon qualifying success, and overall participation.

Big Sur International Marathon Marathon Rankings Summary
Course Speed382nd fastest marathon course in the U.S.
Ranked 32nd fastest marathon course in California
Top 83% Nationally#32 of 34 in California
PR Potential329th best marathon for a Personal Record in the U.S.
Ranked 24th best marathon for a PR in California
Top 72% Nationally#24 of 34 in California
Boston Qualifier Rate344th highest BQ percentage in the U.S.
Ranked 25th highest BQ percentage in California
Based on 2025 Boston Marathon qualifying results
Top 72% Nationally#25 of 34 in California
Race Size28th largest marathon in the U.S.
Ranked 6th largest marathon in California
Based on 2025 results
Top 5% Nationally#6 of 49 in California

Learn more about PR Scores and Course Scores on the FAQ page.



Elevation Chart


Max Elevation: 578 feet (176m)
Min Elevation: 8 feet (2m)

Elevation Gain: 1654 feet (504m)
Elevation Loss: 1949 feet (594m)


Big

Course updated 03/22/2026




Hotel & VRBO Accommodations for the Big Sur International Marathon

View available accomodations around the Big Sur International Marathon Finish Line and Course. Book your Reservation now before the best places are sold out.

For a better mobile or desktop experience:






Compare the Big Sur International Marathon to other Marathons

Use tools below to compare races and convert times across courses.

Do you want to see how the Big Sur International Marathon stacks up against other marathons?

Compare the details of the Big Sur International Marathon side-by-side with other marathons with our Comparison Tool.


Comparison Tool

If you ran the Big Sur International Marathon in 5:29:00, what would your time in other marathons be?

See how your finish time would compare on other marathon courses with our Time Conversion Tool.


Time Converter Tool

Race Reviews


5.0
Based on 17 reviews
Write Your Own Review

Great Marathon for Runners

Full Review:

I really like the challenge to a foot race on a hard surface and clear of roots, rocks, and debris. Traffic control was great and no car whizzing by. They had pacers. The organizers did a good job of not sugar coated the hills. Great run for me and realize on Pikes Peak but left feeling a sense of accomplishment.

I understand we were lucky with weather and not to cold, not much rain, and a big plus no wind to speak about. Just watch weather before you come to best prep for the standing by around before race.

I wish the cost was at max $150.00 instead of the $324.00 I paid. If not in California, I would go again next year but traveling there and staying for the race was expensive for me.

I would recommend to anyone that has run a marathon.

Race Tips:

Can’t tell a person how to train or pace yourself but my HRE for the race was around 5-6 for most of the race and approached 7-8 for the finish. Not stellar time and held back not knowing my hill limits. Finished in 5:08:11.

Travel/Logistics Tips:

We stayed in BB not too far from pickup point. Easy in Vendage Carmel Hotel and parking bus stop G.
Reviewed by Grayhound About 2026

Bucket list race

Full Review:

Pretty much the most spectacular scenery of any US marathon.

Race Tips:

Don’t be deceived by the opening 5 mile downhill. Relentless 5 percent grade miles 19-12 and punishing rolling hills the second half of the race. Monterey Fish House a must.

Travel/Logistics Tips:

Portola Hotel in Monterey is the place to be, NOT the Marriott.
Reviewed by Bad bad dog, About 2026

Brutal, but Beautiful

Full Review:

The race was well put on, stunningly beautiful with great support. Definitely not a BQ race, but a bucket list one for sure.

Race Tips:

OK, lets get this out of the way, the elevation chart on the race's web page is a lie. The course is much hiller than it shows. There is no less than 9 large hills to climb in the second half of the race, with a number of smaller ones. The official elevation chart makes the course seem A LOT easier than it is. And once you get into the Highlands, the road is very banked and hard to run on. It would be best to drive the course the day before so you can see the course.

Also note that the buses that bring you to the start are the yellow cheese wagons, don't expect charter buses. I only stay this because i heard someone complaining about it. But some people are never happy i guess.

Travel/Logistics Tips:

I would arrive on Thursday or Friday at the latest. The town is wonderful. Make sure to do a shakeout run around the Cannery and Lovers Point. Plenty of wildlife, from Sea otters to harbor seals.
Reviewed by BF About 2019

Breathtaking course, headwinds, and hills

Full Review:

BSIM 2018 was an excellent race. I credit the race organizers who communicated effectively with applicants and runners throughout the registration process. The expo was very well organized. Race day was flawless.

Race Tips:

Bring an extra layer to the start, even after you check your bag. It was cold in 2018. BSIM donates any clothing left along the side of the road to local organizations. In 2018, I ditched a pair of trousers that my wife had been asking me to get rid of for years. I showed my appreciation for her meeting me at the finish by announcing that she'd never have to see those trousers again!

Travel/Logistics Tips:

Arrive on Friday or, if you can manage it, on Thursday. There are a lot of fun things to see and do in Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur. I suggest driving the course early on Friday or Saturday morning to get a glimpse of the hills you'll be cursing on Sunday.
Reviewed by Scott Benbow About 2018

Full Review:

Race Tips:

The course is VERY hilly; expect some serious climbs towards the end of the race; expect strong (head-)winds; very scenic course.

Travel/Logistics Tips:

You have to wake up very early, buses to start go around 3:30 a.m.
Reviewed by SW About 2016

Full Review:

This is a must bucket-list marathon. If the views don't blow you away, the headwinds (literally) will. Point-to-point marathon that is very challenging. In addition to fighting head-winds, there is the 2-mile climb up Deja-Vu to Hurricane Point that will test you. Then you run down to the bridge with the famous grand piano playing. Views of the ocean are spectacular.

Race Tips:

Make sure you can deal with hills. This is not a first-time marathon - experienced marathoners only. Regardless, definitely worth it, if you can make it through the lottery.

Travel/Logistics Tips:

You'll need to get up around 2 AM to catch the bus ride to start line. Once you get there, you will wait for a couple of hours in very cold conditions - make sure you bring a jacket to keep warm, prior to the start.
Reviewed by AMB About 2016

Full Review:

Reviewed by Anonymous About 2016

Full Review:

Challenging yet breathtaking course, with great crowd and course support!

Race Tips:

This race is more for the experience than for time. Take time to let the scenery sink in, the views are amazing! The course is very hilly but with training you can be sure to finish within the 6 hour strict cut off time.
Reviewed by Erika Hamel About 2016

Full Review:

Absolutely the best views of any marathon, hands down. Starting off and passing through the narrow tree lined road early in the morning then working your way to incredible ocean views of the Pacific Coast, Bixby Bridge, and then on into Carmel, this marathon has it all. Gorgeous!

Race Tips:

Difficult with all the hills, and oh yes- Hurricane Point at mile 10 is two miles up, up, up. But with Taiko drum beats to get you started up the hill and music from a baby grand (yes, it is actually there on the side of the road perched high above the Pacific Ocean) to welcome you to the top, you'll make it.

Travel/Logistics Tips:

If you are traveling, get there on Friday and spend all of Saturday in incredible Monterey. But don't overdo it because the buses to the start are leaving earrrrllyyyyy (yes, like in 3:00 am) to get to the start. Take something warm to wear while waiting to start your journey and . . . enjoy.
Reviewed by Chuck About 2016

Full Review:

Beautiful course. Friendly supportive volunteers. Well organized. Wonderful events.
Reviewed by Anonymous About 2016

Full Review:

Spectacular Course with incredible views.

Race Tips:

Initial 10 miles consists of flats and rolling hills. Mile 10-12 is a steady uphill climb (Hurricane Point) Final 4 miles - rolling hills.
Reviewed by JEM About 2016

Train for hills

Full Review:

Epic scenery. Begins in Redwood Forest, continues along Pacific coast point to point.

Race Tips:

Train for hills.
Reviewed by JB140.6 About 2016

Full Review:

Liked everything about it! The views were amazing.

Race Tips:

Slow and steady and keep some energy for the hills!

Travel/Logistics Tips:

Stay in Monterey
Reviewed by TG About 2015

Full Review:

The most beautiful Marathon in the world!!!

Race Tips:

Hills!!! The view is much more beautiful than what you are bring told!

Travel/Logistics Tips:

Book your hotel in The marathon's web page.
Reviewed by Carmen About 2014

Full Review:

I first ran Big Sur in 2010; 6 days after running the Boston Marathon. I was obviously tired from Boston, but I was BLOWN away by the beauty of this course. I could not stop smiling. It was amazing. The pre and post race festivities were very well done. Loved the expo as well as the post race party for B2BS runners. Ran it again in 2011. I would do it again in a heartbeat!

Race Tips:

Train for those hills. LOTS of hills; especially near the end. Hurricane Point is long (2 miles up and 2 miles down), but you also have to be prepared for the hills in the Carmel Highlands near the end of the race when you are very, very tired. Also - ENJOY the VIEW!!!!!

Travel/Logistics Tips:

Loved Hofsas House hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea . Small little motel within walking distance to countless shops and restaurants. Forge in the Forest, Casanova, Katy's - so many incredible places to eat. You can walk down Ocean Ave to Carmel Beach or explore 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach. Make a vacation of it!
Reviewed by WCA About 2012

Full Review:

Gorgeous but challenging course. You will never run a course like this. Ocean to your left, hills and redwoods to your right. Four years later, I'm still talking about it.

Race Tips:

Hills for breakfast! this has rolling hills and a section of camber in the road at the last four miles. It's tough but worth it. Don't run it for a PR, run it for the experience.

Travel/Logistics Tips:

Big Sur team has thought of everything on the website. I would go there.
Reviewed by pm About 2012

Full Review:

1st the negative a very early bus ride to the start the positives everything from the unmatched scenery to the great bands and incredible volunteers and oh yeah and this year Sierra Nevada beer. The one Marathon you should not miss.
Reviewed by JV About 1990