Myrtle Beach Marathon

Location: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Country: United States
Website: https://mbmarathon.com
2025 Marathon Date: 01/03/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 07/03/2026
Winning Time 2025: 2:34:05
% Sub-3s: 2–5%
# Sub-3s: 10–49
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The Myrtle Beach Marathon is a coastal U.S. race known for its flat terrain and favourable early spring conditions. Held in the popular tourist destination of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the event has a loyal following among regional runners and BQ chasers alike.

The course begins near the beachfront and winds through residential neighbourhoods, inland parkways and commercial zones before returning to the oceanfront area for the finish. With minimal elevation change and wide roads throughout, it provides ample opportunity for steady pacing. There are few sharp turns or narrow sections, and the out-and-back sections offer a psychological boost through mid-race visual checkpoints.

Temperatures in early March tend to sit between 6–11°C at the start, rising modestly by late morning. Wind is possible along the coastline but generally manageable. Rain is infrequent, and overall race-day conditions tend to favour strong performances.

Despite its mid-sized field, the Myrtle Beach Marathon maintains a professional feel, with chip timing, clear mile markers and regular hydration stations. Local volunteers and sparse but friendly crowds line the course, especially in the final miles along the coast.

Sub-3 runners will find a modest group of peers to pace with, though packs tend to be smaller than at major city races. The flat profile and low-key vibe create a strong opportunity for a personal best - or a last-chance BQ - for runners with clear goals and solo discipline.

The event avoids many of the logistical hassles of larger marathons, making it a smooth choice for self-sufficient runners. For those seeking early-year momentum, the Myrtle Beach Marathon offers fast terrain, mild weather and an easy-going race-day experience that’s serious enough for strong performances, without the distractions of a major city.