Run through paradise at the Cairns Marathon
Every July, the streets of Cairns come alive with the sound of pounding sneakers, cheering crowds, and race-day vibes. Whether you're chasing a new PB or just soaking up the scenery one kilometre at a time, the Cairns Marathon is one of Australia's most iconic running events—set against a tropical backdrop that's hard to beat.
Held in the heart of Tropical North Queensland, the Cairns Marathon Festival offers a chance to soak up the sunshine, sweat it out on one of the country's most scenic courses, and celebrate the end of your run in style (ideally with a cocktail in hand). From the full marathon to the half marathon, 10km, and family-friendly fun runs, there's a category for every level of runner—and plenty of reasons to get involved.
Cairns Marathon event details
The 2024 Cairns Marathon kicks off on 13 July 2025 with a range of running events:
- Full Marathon (42.2 km)
- Half Marathon (21.1 km)
- 10km and 5km Runs
- 2km Family Dash
The Cairns Marathon is a scenic route that weaves through the heart of the city, past lush parklands and along the sun-drenched Cairns Esplanade. Runners tackling the full or half marathon will complete multiple laps of the coastal route—meaning more ocean breezes, more cheering crowds, and plenty of motivation to push through the final stretch.
Cairns Marathon luxury accommodation
When it comes to luxury accommodation in Cairns, Crystalbrook is the perfect retreat for runners who appreciate a stylish spot to kick back, recover, and indulge in some well-earned R&R.
Crystalbrook Flynn
Fun, flirty, and perfectly positioned, Crystalbrook Flynn is a top choice for runners who want to be close to the Cairns Marathon action—before and after the finish line. Located along the Cairns Esplanade, Flynn combines luxury accommodation with vibrant social spaces, including the ever-popular Boardwalk Social.
Crystalbrook Bailey
Thoughtful, artful, and effortlessly stylish, Crystalbrook Bailey is the go-to for runners who take their recovery seriously. With spacious rooms, curated art, and sustainability woven into every detail, it's a hotel designed for comfort and calm. Sink into an in-room bathtub, lounge by the pool, or enjoy a refined dinner at CC's Bar and Grill—Bailey's signature steakhouse.
Crystalbrook Riley
With panoramic views, a resort-style lagoon pool, and elegantly appointed rooms, Crystalbrook Riley is all about rest, rejuvenation, and a little indulgence. Recharge at Eléme Spa, enjoy sunset cocktails and dine under the stars at Rocco—Cairns' highest rooftop bar. However you choose to unwind, Crystalbrook Riley is the perfect place to do it.
All three hotels are within walking distance of the Cairns Marathon course, Cairns Esplanade, and some of the city's best local attractions. Flying in? Cairns Airport is just 10 minutes away.
Cairns restaurants near the action
Whether fuelling up before the big race or winding down after crossing the finish line, Crystalbrook's restaurants in Cairns have you covered—be it a post-run feast, a long lazy lunch, or a celebratory dinner with your crew.
Carb load before the race at Flynn's Italian for a range of homemade pastas to fuel you up for the marathon run.
For any non-race participants who want the best views to watch the marathon, head over to Boardwalk Social to enjoy live music and great vibes of the event while tucking into crispy chicken burgers, pizzas and cold beers.
Celebrate your finish with a glass of red and perfectly grilled steak at CC's Bar and Grill, or enjoy Middle Eastern-inspired bites and rooftop cocktails with Coral Sea views at Rocco.
Cairns restaurants fill up quickly during the Cairns Marathon weekend. Book your table early, especially if you're celebrating with friends, family, or your running crew.
Post-marathon recovery and relaxation
After the marathon run, it's all about the recovery. Stretch it out at our 24-hour fitness centres or book a treatment at Eléme Spa at Crystalbrook Flynn or Riley, with a range of muscle-melting rubdowns, body scrubs and radiance-boosting facials.
Claim a sun lounger, order your drink of choice, and settle in by the pool. With stunning views, lagoon-style pools, and plenty of space to unwind, Crystalbrook is the ultimate post-run retreat.
Explore Cairns beyond the finish line
Turn your marathon weekend into a tropical holiday. Once the race is done, make the most of this Cairns event by exploring everything the Tropical North Queensland has to offer.
Jump on a Great Barrier Reef tour for a snorkel (or just a scenic boat ride) through the crystal-clear waters of the Coral Sea. If rainforests are more your thing, hop aboard the Skyrail to Kuranda for incredible views and breezy village charm or venture north to the Daintree, where you can wander through ancient rainforests, cruise croc-filled rivers, and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive cassowary.
Head indoors to the Cairns Aquarium to hang with sea turtles and reef sharks, or explore the Cairns Art Gallery for a little culture. Rusty's Markets and the Cairns Night Markets are also a must—perfect for grabbing fresh tropical fruit, handmade goodies, and last-minute souvenirs.
Ready, set, run!
Whether you're a seasoned runner or tackling your very first run, the Cairns Marathon is the perfect excuse to lace up and escape to the tropics. With stunning scenery, electric race-day energy, and plenty of places to eat, sleep and recover, there's no better place to cross the finish line and celebrate in style.
Book your stay at Crystalbrook in Cairns, pack your runners, and prepare to hit the ground running.