Kiawah Island Marathon: Your Comprehensive Guide

The 45th Annual Kiawah Island Marathon is just around the corner, and it’s safe to say that it’s the biggest event of the year for both runners and spectators alike!

The picturesque beauty of Kiawah Island, coupled with the official USATF certification and qualification for the Boston Marathon, makes this event a must-attend. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a fan of the sport, here’s the ultimate rundown on what you can expect from this extraordinary weekend on Kiawah.

This year, The Kiawah Island Golf Resort Marathon and Half Marathon will set the stage for the ultimate running experience, now starting and finishing in the charming West Beach Village. 

What truly sets this event apart is the unparalleled natural beauty that surrounds the runners throughout the race. As participants embark on their 26.2-mile or 13.1-mile journey, they’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Kiawah Island’s maritime forests, lush marshes, and wildlife.

Both the Kiawah Island Golf Resort Marathon and Half Marathon start on Saturday December 9, 2023 at 8:00am. The course limit is 6.5 hours for both the Full and Half Marathon and the course officially closes at 2:30pm.

It’s not just the runners who are in for an incredible experience. Spectators, too, can look forward to an incredible day of cheering on their loved ones and witnessing the excitement of the race up close. The best viewing spots are near the start and finish lines and you’ll be able to use the RaceJoy app to keep you connected to your runner!

P.S. Owners, if you want to be even more agile and get to different spectator locations along the course quickly, consider grabbing a Timbers Kiawah bike for the day!

While the run takes center stage, the weekend is brimming with a variety of activities, including markets, dinners, and more, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout the event.

 

Thursday, December 7th

Race Expo and Holiday Market | 3 – 6:30PM | West Beach Conference Center

There will be vendors with sports apparel, health and wellness products, and services, stationed inside Kiawah’s West Beach Conference Center. This is a great place to pick up some last-minute race necessities!

This event will run all weekend long!

Friday, December 8th

Coffee Run | 9:30AM Run Start | The Nest Market and Cafe at Night Heron Park

Attendees are invited to join Blue Sky Endurance for a 3.4-mile warm-up run to become familiar with the course. Nike Running will also be present, offering shoe demos and generous giveaways. Following the run, participants can connect with fellow runners over a cup of coffee at the Nest Market and Café.  

This is a complementary event everyone is welcome to take part!

Glow Run 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run | 4:30PM Pre-Race Party | 5:45PM Race Start | Sanctuary Beach Access 

This is a fun-run 5K or 1-mile event that will start at 4:30pm with a color party and DJ!  The run begins at 5:45pm on an out and back course making your way through black light bubbles, color light displays and snow! Everyone will receive a bib, shirt, and medal. 

Saturday, December 9th

Race Day Breakfast | 6:30AM  – 10AM | West Beach Cantina Pool Bar

Taking part in the race? Then this is the perfect way to fuel up before you begin your race! Enjoy a heartier option with a Sausage Egg and Cheese Wrap, a Bacon Egg and Cheese Biscuit, or an Egg and Cheese Croissant. Or grab a quick bite with KIND and Nutri-Grain Bars. Beverages are also available with your choice of Bottled Juice (Orange and Apple) or Coffee.

This dining option is open to all!

Race Day Stretch | 7 AM– 7:20AM | Beach at Boardwalk 5

Get your mind and body prepared with some yoga style stretching and breathing exercises. Sunrise is at 7:13am. Head to Boardwalk 5, steps from the starting line to begin!  

Complementary, no reservations required! All stretching will be done from a standing position; no mats or towels are needed. 

Party on the Pool Deck | 10AM – 2PM | Sanctuary Pool Deck

The Sancuary is opening their venue to all as a prime spectator viewing spot. They will feature a Bloody Mary bar and beer. There will also be lunch available!

Sunday, December 10th

Recovery Alignment Yoga | 9:30 – 10:30AM | West Beach Conference Center, Carolina 5 & 6

Take part in a Recovery Alignment Yoga session, designed to aid in your post-race body’s healing process. 

Everyone is welcome, regardless of your yoga experience, and tickets are $20/person!

On race day, a significant number of roads will be temporarily closed for the event. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, we strongly advise utilizing cycling or carpooling options from Timbers Kiawah to circumvent any potential disruptions.

Shipwatch Drive | 7:30 – 8:30am and 9:30am – 1:30pm
Kiawah Beach Drive | 7:40 – 8:45am
Greenward Road | 7:40 -8:45am
Kiawah Island Parkway | 7:50 – 9am
Governors Drive (Vanderhorst Gate to 1st Flyaway Drive) | 8:15 – 9:15am
Governors Drive (1st Flyaway to Ocean Course Drive) | 8:20 – 9:45am
Ocean Course Drive | 8:30am – 10am

The 45th Annual Kiawah Island Marathon promises to be an unforgettable event for runners and spectators alike. With its stunning natural backdrop, official USATF certification, and the opportunity to qualify for the Boston Marathon, this race stands out as a must-attend event on the running calendar. 

Whether you’re an experienced marathoner or a running enthusiast, this is an incredible experience that you won’t want to miss. So mark your calendars and get ready to be a part of this extraordinary celebration of running on Kiawah Island!