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Miami Marathon 2027: Race Guide, Course And How To Enter
The Miami Marathon returns on Sunday 31 January 2027, bringing thousands of runners to South Florida for one of America's most distinctive running events. First held in 2003, the race has become an established fixture on the American marathon calendar.
Starting in Downtown Miami, the 26.2 mile route crosses Biscayne Bay, explores Miami Beach and continues through Brickell and Coconut Grove before finishing beside Bayfront Park. Its combination of coastal scenery, colourful neighbourhoods and a predominantly flat course makes it an appealing winter marathon destination.
The Destination
Miami is one of Florida's most popular destinations, known for its beaches, cultural diversity and location on the Atlantic coast. Situated in southeastern Florida, the city combines modern waterfront developments with historic neighbourhoods and strong Caribbean and Latin American influences.
Miami Beach is among the area's best known attractions, particularly South Beach, where colourful Art Deco buildings line Ocean Drive and the surrounding streets. The beachfront stretches for miles, with hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues attracting visitors throughout the year.
Across Biscayne Bay, Downtown Miami is the city's commercial centre, with skyscrapers overlooking the waterfront. Nearby Brickell has developed into a major financial and residential district, while Coconut Grove offers a more relaxed atmosphere with mature trees, historic properties and waterfront parks.
Little Havana provides another side of Miami's character, with Cuban restaurants, music venues and cultural landmarks centred around Calle Ocho. Wynwood has become known for its street art, galleries and creative businesses, making it another popular destination for visitors.
Beyond the city, travellers can explore Everglades National Park or head south towards the Florida Keys. Miami's international airport and extensive accommodation options also make it relatively accessible for runners travelling from overseas.
History Of The Miami Marathon
The Miami Marathon was first held in 2003, establishing a major annual distance running event in South Florida. Local running enthusiasts, including race co-founder Frankie Ruiz, helped develop the event with the ambition of showcasing Miami through an international marathon.
The inaugural race introduced a course connecting Miami with Miami Beach, incorporating the waterfront and several of the area's most recognisable neighbourhoods. Its combination of urban scenery and coastal roads helped distinguish it from other American marathons.
Over the following years, participation increased and the accompanying half marathon became an important part of race weekend. The event also developed relationships with local running clubs, charities and community organisations, helping establish its place in South Florida's running calendar.
Today, the event is organised by Life Time and remains one of Florida's prominent distance running races. Its connection with Miami's creative community is reflected in the distinctive finisher medals, which feature artwork commissioned from local artists.
When Is The Miami Marathon 2027?
The Miami Marathon takes place on Sunday 31 January 2027, alongside the Miami Half Marathon. Both races start in Downtown Miami and finish beside Bayfront Park, with the half marathon sharing much of the opening section of the full marathon course.
The Tropical 5K takes place on Saturday 30 January, providing a shorter distance option during the event weekend. The programme also includes activities for younger runners through Kids Run Miami.
The full marathon has a seven hour time limit, calculated from the departure of the final starting wave. Participants must also reach the checkpoint at approximately 12.8 miles within three and a half hours to be permitted to continue on the marathon route.
The minimum age for marathon participants is 16, with runners under 18 requiring a signed waiver from a parent or guardian.
Miami Marathon 2027 Expo And Race Bib Collection
The Miami Famous Expo takes place on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 January 2027 at Mana Wynwood, located at 318 NW 23rd Street in Miami. The event brings together running brands, exhibitors and participants while providing the main location for collecting race materials.
The published opening hours are noon until 7pm on Friday and 10am until 6pm on Saturday. Participants collecting their race bibs must bring photo identification, although another person may collect on their behalf when provided with a copy of the registered runner's identification.
Runners should plan to collect their bibs during the expo and check the organiser's final instructions for any exceptional collection arrangements. International participants should ensure their arrival schedule allows sufficient time to visit the venue before it closes.
Mana Wynwood is located northwest of Downtown Miami, away from the marathon starting area. Participants staying in Miami Beach or other parts of the city should allow for travel time when planning their visit.
Race Morning
The Miami Marathon starts on Biscayne Boulevard outside the Kaseya Center, home of the Miami Heat basketball team. The starting area is located in Downtown Miami, close to Bayside Marketplace and the waterfront.
The event operates a wave start system, with runners allocated to corrals according to their expected finishing times. The first main running wave is scheduled to depart at 6am, with subsequent waves leaving at intervals during the official starting window.
The starting area is restricted to registered participants displaying an official race bib. Runners should follow their allocated corral instructions and allow sufficient time for security checks, baggage arrangements and access to the start.
Downtown road closures begin early, making transport planning particularly important for anyone staying outside the immediate area. The organiser recommends public transport and designated parking facilities, although runners should check operating times and road restrictions before travelling.
The organiser publishes final instructions covering starting corrals, baggage facilities, toilets and access restrictions before race weekend. Participants should review these arrangements carefully, particularly if travelling to the start from outside Downtown Miami.
Miami Marathon Course
The Miami Marathon follows a single loop through Miami and Miami Beach, beginning with two major causeway crossings before heading south into the city's residential neighbourhoods. The course shares approximately its first 12.9 miles with the half marathon before the two races separate in Downtown Miami.
The route is predominantly flat, with the main elevation changes occurring on bridges. The following description reflects the organiser's established course, including its published turn by turn directions, with final arrangements for 2027 subject to confirmation.
Downtown Miami And The MacArthur Causeway
The marathon begins on Biscayne Boulevard outside the Kaseya Center, heading north before turning onto the MacArthur Causeway. This major road connection crosses Biscayne Bay between mainland Miami and Miami Beach. The opening section passes Watson Island, with views towards the Downtown skyline, the Port of Miami and the surrounding waterfront. The causeway provides an expansive setting, with the waters of Biscayne Bay visible on both sides. The first noticeable climb arrives approximately a quarter of a mile into the race, where the MacArthur Causeway rises around nine metres above sea level. Another gradual incline follows near mile 2.5 as the route approaches Miami Beach.
South Beach And Ocean Drive
After crossing the causeway, runners turn onto Alton Road before heading towards South Pointe Drive and Ocean Drive. This section introduces the colourful architecture and coastal surroundings that have made South Beach internationally recognisable. Ocean Drive runs alongside the Art Deco Historic District, an area known for its distinctive hotels and buildings dating largely from the 1920s and 1930s. The surrounding streets feature restaurants, palm trees and historic properties associated with Miami Beach's development as a major resort destination. The course continues north before turning onto 14th Street and Washington Avenue. These streets take runners away from the immediate beachfront and into the commercial and residential areas of Miami Beach.
Miami Beach And The Venetian Causeway
The route continues through Miami Beach along streets including Dade Boulevard, Prairie Avenue and Meridian Avenue. This section passes residential neighbourhoods and local landmarks away from the busiest beachfront areas. Runners then join the Venetian Causeway, which connects Miami Beach with mainland Miami through a series of islands in Biscayne Bay. The causeway passes Belle Isle and the Venetian Islands, including Rivo Alto, Di Lido, San Marino, San Marco and Biscayne Island. Between approximately miles eight and eleven, participants cross several short bridges surrounded by waterfront homes and views across the bay. The final portion introduces a small incline before the course reaches mainland Miami near Northeast 15th Street.
Downtown Miami And The Half Marathon Split
After leaving the Venetian Causeway, runners continue through central Miami along streets including North Miami Avenue and West Flagler Street. The surrounding area contains commercial buildings, residential developments and some of the city's older urban streets.
The marathon and half marathon separate as the route approaches South Miami Avenue. Half marathon participants turn towards their finish at Bayfront Park, while marathon runners continue across the Miami River. The South Miami Avenue bridge introduces a short incline at approximately mile 13.2. Beyond the crossing, the course enters the southern part of central Miami, beginning a different section of the marathon.
Brickell And The Rickenbacker Causeway
The route continues through Brickell, Miami's financial district, where modern office towers and residential skyscrapers dominate the surrounding streets. The area has developed into one of the city's most important commercial centres, with restaurants, hotels and waterfront properties overlooking Biscayne Bay. Runners follow Brickell Avenue south before joining a section of the Rickenbacker Causeway. This road connects mainland Miami with Virginia Key and Key Biscayne, although the marathon does not continue across the full causeway. The established route uses a turnaround beneath the William Powell Bridge before returning towards the mainland. The surrounding area provides views across Biscayne Bay and towards the islands, with a mixture of open waterfront and major road infrastructure.
Coconut Grove And Bayshore Drive
After leaving the Rickenbacker section, runners head towards Coconut Grove, one of Miami's oldest established neighbourhoods. The area has a noticeably different character from Downtown and Brickell, with mature trees, historic buildings and quieter residential streets. The course follows South Miami Avenue and South Bayshore Drive before continuing through streets including McFarlane Road and Main Highway. This part of Miami is known for its waterfront parks, marinas and tropical vegetation. Coconut Grove developed from one of the area's earliest settlements and retains a distinctive village atmosphere. Its mix of historic properties, independent businesses and residential communities provides a contrast with the larger commercial districts encountered earlier in the marathon.
Grand Avenue And The Residential Neighbourhoods
The marathon continues through Coconut Grove along streets including Grand Avenue and Mary Street before returning towards South Bayshore Drive. The route then explores further residential areas using roads such as Aviation Drive and Tigertail Avenue. These neighbourhoods feature tree lined streets, established homes and a quieter urban environment. The course includes several changes of direction as it passes through residential roads south of the city centre. The established route also uses Shore Drive and Samana Drive before reconnecting with South Miami Avenue. This section forms part of the return journey towards Downtown Miami.
The Miami River And Bayfront Park Finish
The final miles follow South Miami Avenue north towards the Miami River. Runners cross the South Miami Avenue bridge again at approximately mile 25.5, encountering one of the last short inclines on the course. After crossing the river, the route turns towards Southeast 1st Street and Biscayne Boulevard. The finish line is located beside Bayfront Park, approximately four blocks south of the starting area. Participants finish heading north along the waterfront, with spectators gathering around the finish area. Runners receive their medals before continuing through the finish facilities, while Bayfront Park hosts the post race Finish Festival.
How Difficult Is The Miami Marathon Course?
The Miami Marathon's elevation profile makes it suitable for runners seeking a relatively level road race. Although the bridges interrupt the otherwise flat terrain, they do not introduce the sustained climbing associated with more demanding city marathons.
The course is USATF certified and recognised as a Boston Marathon qualifying event. However, favourable terrain does not necessarily guarantee fast finishing times, particularly when environmental conditions become challenging.
January temperatures in Miami can rise into the low or mid twenties Celsius, while humidity may increase the perceived effort of running. Participants arriving from colder climates should consider these conditions when assessing their likely performance.
What Makes The Miami Marathon Special?
Few major city marathons offer the combination of coastal scenery, striking architecture and contrasting neighbourhoods found in Miami. The opening miles across Biscayne Bay provide spectacular views of the Downtown skyline, while the streets of South Beach introduce runners to colourful Art Deco buildings, palm trees and the atmosphere of one of America's most famous beach destinations.
The contrasts continue throughout the course, from the modern skyscrapers of Brickell to the quieter, tree lined streets of Coconut Grove. The Venetian Causeway is another highlight, with its series of bridges and residential islands offering panoramic views across the bay. Together, these different surroundings give runners an opportunity to experience several sides of Miami within a single race.
Music and roadside entertainment add to the occasion, reflecting the city's strong Latin American and Caribbean influences. Local communities contribute to the atmosphere, while the international field brings runners from around the world together for a distinctly Miami experience.
The event is also known for its custom designed finisher medals, featuring artwork commissioned from local artists. Celebrations continue at the Finish Festival in Bayfront Park, where runners and supporters gather beside Biscayne Bay after completing the race.
Is The Miami Marathon Good For First Time Marathon Runners?
Miami can be a good choice for runners completing their first marathon, particularly those who prefer an established event without prolonged hills. Organised starting corrals, regular aid stations and medical support provide important facilities throughout the distance.
The intermediate checkpoint is worth considering for runners expecting to use most of the available completion time. Participants must maintain sufficient progress during the opening half of the race to be permitted to continue along the full marathon course.
First time runners preparing through a cold winter may also find the local climate unfamiliar. Practising appropriate hydration and fuelling strategies, and allowing for the possibility of warmer conditions, can help make the experience more manageable.
How To Enter The Miami Marathon 2027
General registration for the 2027 Miami Marathon has sold out, and the official entry waitlist closed on 30 September 2026. Runners who missed both opportunities currently have limited options for securing a place.
Selection from the waitlist began on 5 October through a rolling lottery, with invitations issued when entries become available. Joining the waitlist did not guarantee a place, and runners who registered their interest should continue monitoring their emails. The organiser will confirm the outcome once the available entries have been allocated.
Official travel packages and charity programmes may provide alternative opportunities, subject to availability and eligibility. Runners should check directly with the relevant provider before making travel arrangements.
Registered participants can request certain transfers or deferrals under the event's published policies. The online change deadline is 22 January 2027, and entry fees are generally non refundable.
Running The Miami Marathon For Charity
The Miami Marathon has an established connection with charitable fundraising, with participating organisations supporting a wide range of causes. Since the inaugural event in 2003, runners representing more than 70 charities have taken part in fundraising activities associated with the race.
The Life Time Foundation is also offering a limited number of charity athlete places for the 2027 Miami Marathon and Half Marathon. Its programme provides fundraising support and opportunities for runners to join a team supporting the foundation's charitable work.
Other charities associated with the event include Special Compass and BRKTHRU, which support causes ranging from disability inclusion to mental fitness. Runners interested in joining a charity team should contact the relevant organisation directly to establish whether entries remain available and what fundraising commitments apply.
Participants who already have their own marathon place can also choose to raise money independently for a charity that matters to them. This allows runners to support a cause without necessarily joining an official charity entry programme.
Where To Stay
Miami offers accommodation ranging from large waterfront hotels to smaller properties in established residential neighbourhoods. For marathon participants, staying close to the starting area can be particularly convenient because of the early departure and extensive road closures.
Downtown Miami is generally the most practical choice, with hotels around Biscayne Boulevard, Bayfront Park and Bayside Marketplace providing easy access to the event. Some properties are within walking distance of both the start and finish, reducing the need for transport on race morning.
Miami Beach and South Beach are attractive choices for runners combining the marathon with a longer holiday. Hotels around Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue and the surrounding streets provide access to the beach and many of the area's best known attractions.
However, the marathon route uses major causeways connecting Miami Beach with the mainland, and race morning closures can affect transport. Participants staying on the beach should check the organiser's travel arrangements rather than assuming normal road access will be available.
Accommodation in the most convenient areas can become expensive during major events, so comparing options early is advisable. International visitors should also check cancellation conditions and travel arrangements before committing to a booking.
Our Verdict
The Miami Marathon stands out for its setting and the variety of experiences available during race weekend. The opening causeway crossings and the opportunity to explore different parts of South Florida give the event an identity that distinguishes it from many conventional city marathons.
Its accessible elevation profile will appeal to runners across a range of abilities, although the climate deserves consideration when choosing the event. The organisation, atmosphere and destination also make it a worthwhile option for those planning a marathon trip rather than simply pursuing a finishing time.
Race Website
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