Wilmington NC Marathon

Location: Wilmington, North Carolina
Country: United States
Website: https://www.wilmingtonncmarathon.com
2025 Marathon Date: 22/02/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 28/02/2026
Winning Time 2025: 2:25:34
% Sub-3s: 5–10%
# Sub-3s: 50–99
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The Wilmington NC Marathon is held each winter in the coastal city of Wilmington, North Carolina. Known for its flat terrain, beachside start and early-season timing, the race has grown in reputation among American runners looking to test their fitness or chase fast times ahead of the spring marathon calendar.

The point-to-point course begins at Wrightsville Beach, offering ocean views and cool sea air before heading inland along well-maintained roads and multi-use paths. Runners pass through residential districts, cross bridges and traverse long, straight sections on the Gary Shell Cross-City Trail. The race finishes in downtown Wilmington near the Cape Fear River, providing a scenic and well-supported finale.

February weather in North Carolina is generally favourable for racing, with start-line temperatures typically ranging from 5–10°C. Conditions are usually dry with light winds, although coastal variability means runners should prepare for mild fluctuations. The early start and tree-lined routes contribute to a steady, temperate race environment.

While not a major city marathon, the Wilmington NC Marathon is professionally organised. The event offers reliable transportation to the start, frequent aid stations and clear on-course signage. The field is relatively small, which allows for free running from the early miles and reduces the risk of congestion at bottlenecks.

Support along the route is modest but heartfelt. Local volunteers, pockets of spectators and small music stations provide encouragement, particularly in the second half of the race. The finish area is compact and welcoming, with a relaxed atmosphere typical of smaller coastal events.

For sub-3 hopefuls, Wilmington offers a fast, low-stress course with very little elevation gain and the potential for good winter conditions. While it may lack the crowds and elite density of bigger races, it provides a well-balanced challenge with strong PB potential for runners prepared to pace themselves and push solo.