There are several different marathons and runs for runners to enjoy along the beautiful emerald coast. We’ve compiled a list of the eight most popular marathons and runs in and around Panama City Beach! Several of these races are run on Front Beach Rd or near Pier Park. Premium Beach Condos has several condos conveniently located near race sites for runners. Book your stay with Premium Beach Condos for the races today!
Donut Stop 5K and 10K
This year’s annual Donut Stop 5K and 10K will be run on August 11 in Panama City. The official location for the race is still to be determined. This run is perfect for the whole family featuring a 5K, 10K, and a kids dash.
Luau 5K, 10K, 15K, and Half Marathon
The Luau races are hosted by the US Road Running Club and will be held at Frank Brown Park. Anyone can run in these races, but Road Running Club members receive 50% off of their registration fees for the races. The US Road Running Club will be hosting two separate Luau runs. The first Luau races will be held on August 24, 2024 and the second Luau races will be held on September 28, 2024.
Fall Ironman
The Fall Ironman race for 2024 will be run on November 2, 2024. This race features a 2.4-mile saltwater swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run. The swim portion of the race is two laps in the Gulf around Russel-Fields Pier. The bike portion of the race starts on Front Beach Rd, goes through Pine Log State Forest, and back to Front Beach Rd. The final portion of the race is the run which is two laps along Front Beach Rd.
Patriot 5K Run/Walk
The Patriot 5K Run/Walk is hosted by American Legion Auxiliary Emerald Coast,Unit 402. The race will be run at their facility located on Ashley Dr on October 12, 2024. Early registration is $30 and ends on July 11, registration will increase to $35 and day of registration will be $40.
Daybreak 76 Panama City Beach Marathon
Daybreak 76 Panama City Beach Marathon offers a marathon for ages 18 and up, a half marathon for ages 10 and up, a 5K for ages 6 and up, and a kids fun run for ages 2-6. This race is a Boston Marathon qualifier, any participant who meets the requirements for their age and gender for the Boston requirements will be eligible to register to run in the next Boston Marathon. The race starts and finishes near Margaritaville in Pier Park and will be run on December 7th, 2024. For this race pets and strollers are allowed, but are asked to start at the back for the safety of other runners.
2025 Runs
Be sure to keep an eye out for these popular runs to return in 2025!
Ninja 5K and 10K
The Ninja 5K and 10K is hosted by US Road Running Club. The US Road Running Club hosts races all across the country and is hosting several races in Panama City. You don’t have to be a member of the US Road Running Club to participate in the races, but members do receive 50% off race registration. These races are typically run at the Callaway Recreation Center in Panama City.
Spring Ironman
The Spring Ironman race typically features a 1.2-mile saltwater swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run. The swim portion of the race is an out-and-back in the Gulf. The bike portion of the race starts on Front Beach Rd, goes through Pine Log State Forest, and back to Front Beach Rd. The final portion of the race is the run which is three laps along Front Beach and Middle Beach Rd. The Spring Ironman will be run on May 10, 2025.
Jam on the Coast 5K
Country music fans and runners come together! The city of Panama City Beach has partnered with Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam for the Jam on the Coast 5K. This run typically starts and finishes at the gates of Gulf Coast Jam in Frank Brown Park.