There aren't many marathons in the world where the course runs alongside a World Heritage-listed reef. The 7 Cairns Marathon Festival on 12 July 2026 puts you right on the Esplanade in tropical North Queensland, with the Coral Sea on one side and the hinterland rainforest rising behind the city on the other. Running through paradise isn't just a marketing tagline here — it's a reasonable description of what's actually happening.
All distances start and finish at Fogarty Park on the Esplanade — the beating heart of Cairns' waterfront precinct. The courses hug the foreshore and take runners through the city's most scenic sections, with ocean views throughout and the laid-back tropical character of Cairns providing a backdrop unlike any other Australian running event. The AIMS-certified courses are flat and fast despite the tropical setting, making this a genuine PB opportunity in an extraordinary location.
A heads up: The marathon, half marathon, 10km and 5km are all sold out for 2026. If you haven't already registered, the 2km Family Dash still has places — or get on the waitlist for other distances and monitor for cancellations. This event's popularity is well-deserved.
Cairns has its own international airport with direct flights from all major Australian cities. The Esplanade start and finish is walkable from most city hotels. The Cairns Sheraton, Mantra Esplanade, and Oaks Cairns are popular choices for race weekend — all within easy walking distance of Fogarty Park.
The 7 Cairns Marathon Festival is the kind of event that justifies booking flights from anywhere in Australia. If you can get a place, don't hesitate.
