Dolphin Coast Marathon

Location: Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal
Country: South Africa
Website: https://www.balwinmarathon.co.za
2025 Marathon Date: 16/03/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 15/03/2026
Winning Time 2025: 2:20:25
% Sub-3s: 2–5%
# Sub-3s: 50–99
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The Dolphin Coast Marathon takes place each March along South Africa’s North Coast, starting and finishing in the coastal town of Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal. Offering ocean views and a fast, point-to-point layout, the race has quickly gained attention among South African club runners seeking qualifying times and consistent pacing opportunities.

The course is net downhill, descending steadily from the hills of Sheffield Beach toward sea level at Salt Rock and beyond. Runners benefit from extended gradual drops in elevation, with minimal sharp climbs or interruptions. The roads are wide, well-maintained and closed to traffic, supporting consistent rhythm from start to finish.

Weather on the Dolphin Coast in March tends to be warm and humid, with temperatures at the start typically around 18°C and rising steadily through the morning. Early starts and shaded coastal stretches help offset the heat, but hydration remains key throughout the race.

Scenic highlights include coastal panoramas, stretches past sugarcane fields and residential communities, and several kilometres along open, breezy roads flanked by the Indian Ocean. Support along the course is enthusiastic but modest, with a club-run feel and focused aid stations rather than major crowd noise.

For sub-3 aspirants, the Dolphin Coast Marathon offers real potential. The net downhill profile favours strong runners who can maintain pace without overreaching, especially in the early kilometres. While the humidity may affect some, the race's early timing and smooth logistics make it a credible choice for a personal best attempt.

As a relatively young but well-organised event, Dolphin Coast combines the best of South African road running tradition—fast courses, early starts, local club culture—with the ambition of a professionally managed marathon. It’s a compelling option for serious runners seeking speed with scenery.