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Marathon Details - Big Sur International Marathon

North America Marathons > USA > CA > Carmel > Big Sur International Marathon

Big Sur International Marathon

Big Sur International Marathon & Marathon Relay, 21-Miler, 11-Miler, 12K, 5K

Carmel, CA USA

April 27, 2025

http://www.bigsurmarathon.org

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Race Details

The Big Sur International Marathon offers runners a breathtaking journey along California's picturesque coastline. Starting in the serene town of Big Sur and finishing in the charming community of Carmel, the marathon takes participants through a route filled with stunning ocean views, rolling hills, and the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge. This race is more than a test of endurance; it is an experience that combines the challenge of running with the natural beauty of the Pacific Coast.

The marathon begins amid the majestic redwoods of Big Sur, gradually leading runners to the coastal highway where the Pacific Ocean stretches out before them. The course is known for its rolling hills, with the ascent to Hurricane Point being one of the most challenging sections, offering a spectacular panoramic view as a reward. The support along the course is exceptional, with enthusiastic volunteers, live music, and well-stocked aid stations providing water, electrolytes, and snacks.

Organizational excellence ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants. From the early morning shuttles that transport runners to the start line to the clear communication from organizers, every detail is meticulously planned. Participants appreciate the ease of logistics, particularly the transportation and efficient gear check systems.

Crossing the finish line in Carmel, runners are greeted with applause, a unique clay finisher's medal, and a variety of post-race refreshments. The festive atmosphere, complete with music and entertainment, creates a sense of camaraderie and celebration among participants. The marathon's combination of natural beauty, challenging course, and outstanding organization makes it a memorable event for all who take part.

The Big Sur International Marathon stands out for its scenic route, meticulous organization, and warm community support. It provides a unique and rewarding experience for runners of all levels, making it a must-do event in the marathon calendar.

Contact Information

Name:	Doug Thurston
Address:	PO Box 222620 Carmel, CA 93922-2620
Phone Number:	(831) 625-6226
Fax Number:	(831) 625-2119
Email:	Email the organizers

Runner Reviews (212)

Course 4.9

Organization 4.8

Spectators 3.7

Write a review

Number of comments: 212 [displaying comments 1 to 11]

More Comments: [ < 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 .. 22 > ]

Linda Miller from FL (9/20/2023) "VIP the way to go" (about: 2023) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 The VIP had everything including heated tent before and after race. I never have been so spoiled in marathon and I have done over 30. This was the way to go. Well organized. Beautiful tough course.
J. B. from United States (5/2/2023) "Beautiful, brutal terrain, poor race management" (about: 2023) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 2 FANS: 2 I've run close to 30 marathons around the world and while others have been just as scenic (Hawaii, northern Michigan and Grandmas to name a few) this was far the most brutal course from the hills to the winds there is no reprieve - and no spectators to cheer you on either! But far worse was the management. The cramped and chaotic runners' expo, the morning of the race none - NONE - of the busses showed up, waiting in the cold for HOURS before the race - with no heaters and not enough porta potty's - the race actually started late because it was so disorganized and then at the end you get like a flimsy plastic medal and a box of chips, granola bars and vegan jerky and have to board another bus (school bus) back to Monterey where they just drop you off and you're on your own to find your way back to the pick up area/hotel. Terrible terrible management. Course was fine but no water, just terribly tasting fake gatorade. The course was quiet scenic but for the money we pay (and that they get with the other races that are run at the same time - including the bizarre 21 miler which can only be explained as a way to bring in more money) they should oh I don't know have heaters for us at the start and more support/food along the way and at the end. And for the love of God have the buses show up on time in the morning and be clear about where we go to get on them. hire a new race manager for 2024 who will ensure the organization behind this marathon is worthy of the course.
Kristy Wilson from Arizona (5/3/2019) "Prettiest Marathon Ever" (about: 2019) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 Any runners bucket list race for sure! This marathon was hard but beautiful. A "wow" course! I didn't train hills and was still fine. I normally run 3:35 marathons and finished this race in 3:48. Gatorade and water stations were placed just right throughout the course. We stayed at the Marriott in downtown Monterey and would recommend the area to stay while there! Lots of great food within walking distance. Overall I would definitely recommend this race for the challenge and beauty!
s. w. from Rochester NY (2/26/2018) "Big tip!" (about: 2017) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 What I didn't train for killed me. I worked hard all winter on up hill training but what killed me were the downhills. Took me 32 mins to do Hurricane Point without walking and I was all smiles. But soon thereafter going down the remaining numerous hills killed my quads and reaggravated a knee problem. So treat the downs like the ups!
E. S. from Denton, TX (8/11/2017) "Haiku Review 4U" (about: 2017) 4-5 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 Big Sur Marathon Like backhanded compliments Serves lashings with smiles Thanks race director For limiting the guest list The size is just right Friendly field of folks Much less intense than east coast This one 'just for fun' Go to the woods stat Consider buying a van Make friends with locals Enjoy wealthy town Expensive? Yes. But YOLO Booze coffee by beach Oh? What's that you say? You want to hear about race? Run from A to B Rolling hills hurt legs So do marathons, dummy Consider the sport Retirement race But no, too much fun. Next year I come back for more
C. K. from New Jersey (5/10/2017) "Lives up to the hype" (about: 2017) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 I LOVED Big Sur. It was marathon 30-something for me, and one of my favorites. It was worth the trip from the East Coast. I stayed in Monterey which is a beautiful coastal town with decent restaurants and plenty to do. The Marriott made all the runners feel welcome race weekend. Organization for the marathon was top notch. We were informed and transportation to the start was easy. The views are breathtaking from the first step off the bus. The course is beautiful and we lucked out with minimal headwind this year. On course support and entertainment is enjoyable and uplifting. Many thanks for the strawberries towards the end of the race. I loved every moment of the marathon. Sure, there are hills, but the organizers don't hide or downplay that fact. This was a bucket list race for me and did not disappoint. I have zero complaints.
M. L. from Dallas, TX (5/3/2017) "Lives up to the hype" (about: 2017) 3 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 4 What can I say, this race is amazing. The course from beginning to end is incredible. You have forests in the beginning, hills and sea throughout before finally seeing more spectators heading into Carmel. There actually were some spectators early in the course in Big Sur. The lack of spectators did not bother me at all. You are warned to train for hills which I did. Hurricane point was not that big of a deal for me. However, the rolling hills at the end were brutal considering their placement. The weather was perfect. Winds were minimal and the heat only became a slight issue for me towards the end. A few negatives. There ought to be more aid stations towards the end. I believe they are still 2 miles apart. The finisher village did not have a changing tent and there was only one spot to get water. That said, I definitely want to run this race again.
C. T. from Iowa (5/1/2017) "Not worth it" (about: 2017) 4-5 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 2 ORGANIZATION: 2 FANS: 1 What can I say. I'm disappointed. This course was not what I had expected given the comments here. Very difficult course made even more difficult by the lack of aid stations and how well they are stock, lack of spectators and lack of any entertainment besides the view. The med tent did not have any asprin or ibuprofin which shocked me. I usually bring my own but forgot on this morning thinking they would have them on the course. Nope. I don't get the hype here. The view is great and all, but anybody who has been to a blue beach has seen all of this before. The awe of the view quickly wore off on the 2 major climb from miles 10-12. A constant 5% grade climb for 2 miles into a headwind. Organization was lacking as well. We had to get on the buses by 3:30 AM to get to the start at 4 AM to start the race at 6:45... They only shut down one lane on highway one and leave the other lane open for traffic. You are constantly being told not to cross into the live lane (for good reason) but I would think paying nearly 400 for a marathon they could do a bit more to reserve space on the road. All in all, I will not recommend this marathon. The difficulty, lack of aid and lack of entertainment made it a very difficult race to finish, both mentally and physically. At the end, I didn't have the accomplishment feeling that I've had with my other marathons. This felt more like a chore than anything.
J. G. from MS (10/6/2016) "Spiritually Enlightening!" (about: 2016) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I flew into San Jose on Saturday before the race. It was around $100 cheaper than Monterey, and was very easy to get in and out of. I pick up the rental car from Enterprise. I had reserved a crossover (it was surprisingly the cheapest option), and when I went to pick it up - Jerry from Enterprise was talking to me and asking me what I was in town for. I told him it was my first time to CA and I was going to Big Sur for the marathon and staying in Monterey. His ears perked up and asked, 'first time in CA and you're going to Big Sur, eh? Let me see what I got here...' He checks for a second, and sets me up with a loaded out Grand Cherokee, with the dual sky roof, GPS - the works. I was hooked on the Cali hospitality. I drive in and immediately go to the expo in Monterey. They had some construction work going on in the venue that originally housed the expo, so they just set up a tent. Plenty of signs to point you in the right direction and they made SURE you knew the logistics for the following day (free parking, bus passes, etc.). Friendly, helpful staff. I arrived the next morning at 3am and parked (realistically, 3am is still like the middle of the night). But you board the busses and trek down Hwy 1 to Big Sur. 30 miles of a rural, twisting highway with 100+ foot cliffs in top heavy school busses need to be carefully driven. We arrived at Big Sur station about 4:30am. PLENTY of porto's. Even had some food (bagels and such) and water and coffee. TIP: If you're a big coffee drinker, take a large disposable cup. The cups were 8 oz, and the line backed up pretty quickly. The race started promptly at 7am. The first 5-6 miles are through the forested area, very natural and pretty...but I was ready for the coast. For the next 20 miles, the Pacific is your constant companion. You've seen pics...I know you have, otherwise, you probably wouldn't be reading this review. What the pics don't show you is the headwind. Holy mess - they are no joke. It felt like I was running with a parachute half the time. That coupled with the steep elevation made this race the most difficult I've ever finished. But it was totally worth it. I'd do it again (in fact, I signed up again this year). The race, the finish festival...everything was perfect. The crowds are sparse throughout the race - but you don't need them. Also, I can't say enough about how friendly the folks in Monterey and Carmel were. I'll admit - I was a bit apprehensive in thinking they were haute and a little snooty, since the area is very, very wealthy. But I was completely wrong. The locals were some of the nicest folks I've ever met in my life. There must have been 3 or 4 times where I just sat down at a random bar and would have hour long conversations with the locals about what to do and see. Extremely hospitable. The extras to do in town: I went on a few hikes that the locals recommended (McWay Falls/Big Sur, Rocky Ridge Trail, etc). I went to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, 17 mile drive, and even went sky diving for the first time (Skydive Surfcity - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!). But I think my favorite thing of all was just to park the car on one of the pull-outs and tailgate the sunset with a camera. The Pacific Ocean was named such because of it's calm, peaceful demeanor. I would have to agree.
L. V. from New York City (5/30/2016) "Challenging but worth it!" (about: 2016) 11-50 previous marathons \| 2 Big Sur International Marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 I ran this race in 2014 as well and this year the incredible, consistent head winds for the first 20+ miles made 2016 an entirely different experience, but still one I was happy to have had. The course is stunning, the logistics well-handled and the finish area especially enjoyable after the long haul. My one suggestion (other than running the course in the opposite direction so we can have a tailwind!) is that the portos should be better set up/organized at the start village. It was a bit of a mosh pit, albeit a friendly NorCal one, to get to a stall. Special thanks to the volunteers at the aid stationsthey really are friendly and caring toward wind-and-hill-weary runners.

More Comments: [ < 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 .. 22 > ]



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Linda Miller from FL (9/20/2023) "VIP the way to go" (about: 2023) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 The VIP had everything including heated tent before and after race. I never have been so spoiled in marathon and I have done over 30. This was the way to go. Well organized. Beautiful tough course.
J. B. from United States (5/2/2023) "Beautiful, brutal terrain, poor race management" (about: 2023) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 2 FANS: 2 I've run close to 30 marathons around the world and while others have been just as scenic (Hawaii, northern Michigan and Grandmas to name a few) this was far the most brutal course from the hills to the winds there is no reprieve - and no spectators to cheer you on either! But far worse was the management. The cramped and chaotic runners' expo, the morning of the race none - NONE - of the busses showed up, waiting in the cold for HOURS before the race - with no heaters and not enough porta potty's - the race actually started late because it was so disorganized and then at the end you get like a flimsy plastic medal and a box of chips, granola bars and vegan jerky and have to board another bus (school bus) back to Monterey where they just drop you off and you're on your own to find your way back to the pick up area/hotel. Terrible terrible management. Course was fine but no water, just terribly tasting fake gatorade. The course was quiet scenic but for the money we pay (and that they get with the other races that are run at the same time - including the bizarre 21 miler which can only be explained as a way to bring in more money) they should oh I don't know have heaters for us at the start and more support/food along the way and at the end. And for the love of God have the buses show up on time in the morning and be clear about where we go to get on them. hire a new race manager for 2024 who will ensure the organization behind this marathon is worthy of the course.
Kristy Wilson from Arizona (5/3/2019) "Prettiest Marathon Ever" (about: 2019) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 Any runners bucket list race for sure! This marathon was hard but beautiful. A "wow" course! I didn't train hills and was still fine. I normally run 3:35 marathons and finished this race in 3:48. Gatorade and water stations were placed just right throughout the course. We stayed at the Marriott in downtown Monterey and would recommend the area to stay while there! Lots of great food within walking distance. Overall I would definitely recommend this race for the challenge and beauty!
s. w. from Rochester NY (2/26/2018) "Big tip!" (about: 2017) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 What I didn't train for killed me. I worked hard all winter on up hill training but what killed me were the downhills. Took me 32 mins to do Hurricane Point without walking and I was all smiles. But soon thereafter going down the remaining numerous hills killed my quads and reaggravated a knee problem. So treat the downs like the ups!
E. S. from Denton, TX (8/11/2017) "Haiku Review 4U" (about: 2017) 4-5 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 Big Sur Marathon Like backhanded compliments Serves lashings with smiles Thanks race director For limiting the guest list The size is just right Friendly field of folks Much less intense than east coast This one 'just for fun' Go to the woods stat Consider buying a van Make friends with locals Enjoy wealthy town Expensive? Yes. But YOLO Booze coffee by beach Oh? What's that you say? You want to hear about race? Run from A to B Rolling hills hurt legs So do marathons, dummy Consider the sport Retirement race But no, too much fun. Next year I come back for more
C. K. from New Jersey (5/10/2017) "Lives up to the hype" (about: 2017) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 I LOVED Big Sur. It was marathon 30-something for me, and one of my favorites. It was worth the trip from the East Coast. I stayed in Monterey which is a beautiful coastal town with decent restaurants and plenty to do. The Marriott made all the runners feel welcome race weekend. Organization for the marathon was top notch. We were informed and transportation to the start was easy. The views are breathtaking from the first step off the bus. The course is beautiful and we lucked out with minimal headwind this year. On course support and entertainment is enjoyable and uplifting. Many thanks for the strawberries towards the end of the race. I loved every moment of the marathon. Sure, there are hills, but the organizers don't hide or downplay that fact. This was a bucket list race for me and did not disappoint. I have zero complaints.
M. L. from Dallas, TX (5/3/2017) "Lives up to the hype" (about: 2017) 3 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 4 What can I say, this race is amazing. The course from beginning to end is incredible. You have forests in the beginning, hills and sea throughout before finally seeing more spectators heading into Carmel. There actually were some spectators early in the course in Big Sur. The lack of spectators did not bother me at all. You are warned to train for hills which I did. Hurricane point was not that big of a deal for me. However, the rolling hills at the end were brutal considering their placement. The weather was perfect. Winds were minimal and the heat only became a slight issue for me towards the end. A few negatives. There ought to be more aid stations towards the end. I believe they are still 2 miles apart. The finisher village did not have a changing tent and there was only one spot to get water. That said, I definitely want to run this race again.
C. T. from Iowa (5/1/2017) "Not worth it" (about: 2017) 4-5 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 2 ORGANIZATION: 2 FANS: 1 What can I say. I'm disappointed. This course was not what I had expected given the comments here. Very difficult course made even more difficult by the lack of aid stations and how well they are stock, lack of spectators and lack of any entertainment besides the view. The med tent did not have any asprin or ibuprofin which shocked me. I usually bring my own but forgot on this morning thinking they would have them on the course. Nope. I don't get the hype here. The view is great and all, but anybody who has been to a blue beach has seen all of this before. The awe of the view quickly wore off on the 2 major climb from miles 10-12. A constant 5% grade climb for 2 miles into a headwind. Organization was lacking as well. We had to get on the buses by 3:30 AM to get to the start at 4 AM to start the race at 6:45... They only shut down one lane on highway one and leave the other lane open for traffic. You are constantly being told not to cross into the live lane (for good reason) but I would think paying nearly 400 for a marathon they could do a bit more to reserve space on the road. All in all, I will not recommend this marathon. The difficulty, lack of aid and lack of entertainment made it a very difficult race to finish, both mentally and physically. At the end, I didn't have the accomplishment feeling that I've had with my other marathons. This felt more like a chore than anything.
J. G. from MS (10/6/2016) "Spiritually Enlightening!" (about: 2016) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 Big Sur International Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I flew into San Jose on Saturday before the race. It was around $100 cheaper than Monterey, and was very easy to get in and out of. I pick up the rental car from Enterprise. I had reserved a crossover (it was surprisingly the cheapest option), and when I went to pick it up - Jerry from Enterprise was talking to me and asking me what I was in town for. I told him it was my first time to CA and I was going to Big Sur for the marathon and staying in Monterey. His ears perked up and asked, 'first time in CA and you're going to Big Sur, eh? Let me see what I got here...' He checks for a second, and sets me up with a loaded out Grand Cherokee, with the dual sky roof, GPS - the works. I was hooked on the Cali hospitality. I drive in and immediately go to the expo in Monterey. They had some construction work going on in the venue that originally housed the expo, so they just set up a tent. Plenty of signs to point you in the right direction and they made SURE you knew the logistics for the following day (free parking, bus passes, etc.). Friendly, helpful staff. I arrived the next morning at 3am and parked (realistically, 3am is still like the middle of the night). But you board the busses and trek down Hwy 1 to Big Sur. 30 miles of a rural, twisting highway with 100+ foot cliffs in top heavy school busses need to be carefully driven. We arrived at Big Sur station about 4:30am. PLENTY of porto's. Even had some food (bagels and such) and water and coffee. TIP: If you're a big coffee drinker, take a large disposable cup. The cups were 8 oz, and the line backed up pretty quickly. The race started promptly at 7am. The first 5-6 miles are through the forested area, very natural and pretty...but I was ready for the coast. For the next 20 miles, the Pacific is your constant companion. You've seen pics...I know you have, otherwise, you probably wouldn't be reading this review. What the pics don't show you is the headwind. Holy mess - they are no joke. It felt like I was running with a parachute half the time. That coupled with the steep elevation made this race the most difficult I've ever finished. But it was totally worth it. I'd do it again (in fact, I signed up again this year). The race, the finish festival...everything was perfect. The crowds are sparse throughout the race - but you don't need them. Also, I can't say enough about how friendly the folks in Monterey and Carmel were. I'll admit - I was a bit apprehensive in thinking they were haute and a little snooty, since the area is very, very wealthy. But I was completely wrong. The locals were some of the nicest folks I've ever met in my life. There must have been 3 or 4 times where I just sat down at a random bar and would have hour long conversations with the locals about what to do and see. Extremely hospitable. The extras to do in town: I went on a few hikes that the locals recommended (McWay Falls/Big Sur, Rocky Ridge Trail, etc). I went to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, 17 mile drive, and even went sky diving for the first time (Skydive Surfcity - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!). But I think my favorite thing of all was just to park the car on one of the pull-outs and tailgate the sunset with a camera. The Pacific Ocean was named such because of it's calm, peaceful demeanor. I would have to agree.
L. V. from New York City (5/30/2016) "Challenging but worth it!" (about: 2016) 11-50 previous marathons \| 2 Big Sur International Marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 I ran this race in 2014 as well and this year the incredible, consistent head winds for the first 20+ miles made 2016 an entirely different experience, but still one I was happy to have had. The course is stunning, the logistics well-handled and the finish area especially enjoyable after the long haul. My one suggestion (other than running the course in the opposite direction so we can have a tailwind!) is that the portos should be better set up/organized at the start village. It was a bit of a mosh pit, albeit a friendly NorCal one, to get to a stall. Special thanks to the volunteers at the aid stationsthey really are friendly and caring toward wind-and-hill-weary runners.

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Marathon Details - Big Sur International Marathon