Kiawah Island Marathon

Location: Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Country: United States
Website: https://kiawahresort.com/recreation/kiawah-island-marathon/
2025 Marathon Date: 12/13/2025
2026 Marathon Date: TBC
Winning Time 2025: 2:32:16
% Sub-3s: 2-5% # Sub-3s: 10-49 Total Finishers: 1-3k

The Kiawah Island Marathon is an established winter road race held annually on Kiawah Island, South Carolina, a barrier island located roughly 25 miles southwest of Charleston. Known for its calm setting and consistently flat terrain, the marathon has become a popular choice for runners seeking a fast, low-stress course in a scenic coastal environment.

The race is centred on the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, with both the start and finish located near the West Beach Conference Center. From there, the course loops through the island’s private residential community, running almost entirely on paved roads, with some sections using golf cart paths. Elevation change is minimal across the full 42.195 km, with total gain and loss of only a few metres, giving the course a genuinely flat profile from start to finish. This makes it particularly attractive to runners targeting personal bests or Boston Marathon qualifying times.

Scenically, the marathon offers a distinctive Lowcountry backdrop. Runners pass beneath canopies of mature live oaks, alongside tidal marshes and lagoons, and through quiet neighbourhoods lined with large coastal homes. While the island setting feels secluded and calm, the course is not fully closed to traffic, so runners share some roads with vehicles, adding a practical consideration to the otherwise relaxed environment.

The event traces its origins back to 1978, when it was first staged as the “Island Marathon” on the nearby Isle of Palms. Over time, the race relocated and evolved into the Kiawah Island Marathon, becoming a long-running fixture on the regional running calendar. Its longevity has helped establish a loyal following, with many runners returning year after year for the combination of reliable organisation, flat terrain and attractive setting.

The marathon is certified and sanctioned by USA Track & Field, and the full distance is an official Boston Marathon qualifier. Alongside the marathon, the event typically includes a half marathon and shorter race options, making it accessible to a broad range of participants. Race weekend is supported by a modest expo and associated activities, contributing to a low-key but well-supported atmosphere.

Overall, the Kiawah Island Marathon is defined by simplicity and consistency rather than spectacle. Its appeal lies in a genuinely flat course, predictable conditions and a tranquil coastal environment, offering runners a straightforward, performance-friendly marathon experience without the intensity of a large urban race.