Cayman Islands Marathon 2025

• Flat, scenic course through George Town's financial district and waterfront, certified for Boston qualification.
• Early 5 a.m. start to beat the heat, with a complimentary park and ride service from 3:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Strong community support with music, decorated water stands, and cheering spectators.
• Starts and finishes at Sharkeez Restaurant; all participants receive a finisher's medal.
• Offers full marathon, half marathon, relay, and a Kids Fun Run with live online tracking available.

The Cayman Islands Marathon is an annual event held on the first Sunday in December. It includes a full marathon, half marathon, four-person relay, and a Kids Fun Run. The race is known for its picturesque course, which takes runners through the financial district of George Town, along the beautiful waterfront, and through South Sound with its charming homes and magnificent views of the sea. The course is flat and fast, making it ideal for both newbie runners and seasoned competitors chasing down their next PR. \n\nCourse Details: The marathon course is a 13.1-mile loop, with full marathoners completing two loops. The route starts on Seafarers Way in George Town, in front of the Hard Rock Café, and runs through South Church Street into South Sound and then onto Old Prospect Road to Prospect Point, which is designated as the turnaround point. Runners then turn around and run back using the same route, turning onto Walkers Road and continuing until they come to Hinds Way, where they turn right and continue onto Academy Way back to Walkers Road. The course continues on Walkers Road until the 4-way stop at Hospital Road, where runners turn left onto Hospital Road and then left onto Elgin Avenue, running past the George Town Police Station and the George Town Post Office toward the Town Clock, turning left and continuing to the stop light on Seafarers Way, and finally turning left to return to the Start/Finish line in front of the Hard Rock Café.\n\nUnique Features: The Cayman Islands Marathon is highly regarded for its beautiful Caribbean setting, well-organized event management, and friendly atmosphere. It has been listed as one of the best marathons in the world by various publications, including the Daily Burn and BuzzFeed. The race is IAAF-sanctioned, chip-timed, and a Boston Qualifier, making it a popular choice for runners seeking to qualify for the Boston Marathon.\n\nAdditional Information: The event attracts over 1,500 participants and 300 volunteers, making it one of the biggest sporting events in the Cayman Islands calendar. All runners who complete their race receive a commemorative finisher's medal, and awards are given to the top three males and females overall in the marathon and half marathon, as well as to the top three teams in various relay divisions.\n\nRegistration and Logistics: Registration can be done online, via email, in person at the Kelly Holding office, or at Packet Pick Up the day before the race. There are no refunds or transfers, but deferrals are available for a fee. Detailed information on registration, packet pick-up, and race logistics can be found on the official website.

Expect morning temperatures between 72-75°F (22-24°C) and afternoon highs of 79-84°F (26-29°C) in early December for the Cayman Islands Marathon. As the rainy season concludes, anticipate short showers and moderate breezes, with decreasing humidity throughout the month. These conditions offer a pleasant setting for a December run in George Town.

The Cayman Islands Marathon offers a breathtakingly scenic and flat course, perfect for runners of all levels seeking a memorable experience. Starting on Harbour Drive, the route winds through the vibrant streets of George Town, past the picturesque waterfront, and into the serene South Sound. Along the way, runners are treated to charming homes, stunning sea views, and key landmarks like the Town Clock and the Government Administration Building.

With its incredibly flat terrain and lack of significant elevation changes, the course promises fast conditions, ideal for both beginners and seasoned marathoners. Full marathon participants will enjoy the challenge of completing two loops of this picturesque path. As an IAAF-sanctioned event and a Boston Qualifier, the marathon is a popular choice for those aiming to qualify for the Boston Marathon.

The race's friendly atmosphere is enhanced by music, lively water stations, and enthusiastic supporters lining the route. The tropical climate, with temperatures typically in the low 70s and a gentle breeze, ensures comfortable running conditions. The Cayman Islands Marathon is truly a standout event, offering not just a race but a vibrant celebration of running amidst stunning Caribbean beauty.

George Town, Grand Cayman, is a delightful destination for marathon travelers, blending athletic pursuits with Caribbean charm. Beyond the race, visitors can explore iconic attractions like Seven Mile Beach, a stunning stretch of white sand perfect for water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving. For a truly unique encounter, head to Stingray City to interact with graceful stingrays in their natural habitat. If you prefer to stay dry, glass-bottom boat tours offer a captivating view of vibrant coral reefs and shipwrecks like the Cali and Cheeseburger Reef.

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the island by visiting the National Museum in George Town, which showcases over 8,000 fascinating artifacts. Historical sites such as Pedro St. James National Historic Site and Fort George Ruins provide deeper insights into the island's past. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands, where local art and culture come to life.

Enhance your visit with local flavors and fresh produce from the Farmers’ Market on Huldah Avenue, open throughout the week. Whether indulging in street food or dining at upscale restaurants along Seven Mile Beach, the culinary scene offers something for every palate. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights, George Town promises a memorable experience for marathon travelers.