Cairns Marathon 2025
For the ultimate running event and community gathering, check out the Cairns Marathon! Every year, the Cairns Marathon brings together runners, families, and healthy lifestyle enthusiasts with races and events in downtown Cairns. With the lush backdrop of Tropical North Queensland, there is no better place for a marathon.
7 Cairns Marathon Festival 2025
Held on Sunday, 13th July 2025, the 7 Cairns Marathon Festival is a beloved local event that draws in runners and spectators of all ages and fitness levels. With several races of varying lengths, including family-friendly races and walks, anyone can participate in the Cairns Marathon!
The race routes will trace along the Cairns Esplanade and surrounding streets, with the event hub and post-race entertainment set up in Fogarty Park. If you're in Cairns for the weekend, prepare for some lively festivities down by the Esplanade.
Find more information on the official Cairns Marathon website.
Cairns Marathon Event Categories & Distances
The 2025 Cairns Marathon Festival has 6 different races that cater to every ability and age group. Races include 2km, 5km, 10km, half (21km) and full (42km) marathon distances, allowing people to challenge themselves or just enjoy a leisurely walk with friends and family.
Race Options:
- 7News Marathon (42.2 km): Starts at 5:45am, individual and team relay options available
- McDonald's Half Marathon (21.1 km): Also starts at 5:45am
- 10 km Run: Starts at 8:00am
- Oaks 5 km Run: Starts at 10am
- Royal Rehab LifeWorks 5 km Walk: Starts at 10:00am
- RMHCNA 2 km Family Dash: Starts at 11:00am
How many people run the Cairns Marathon?
There are thousands of people who run the Cairns Marathon every year! In 2024, the Cairns Marathon Festival was completely sold out, with at least 3,500 participants. This year, there are currently about 2,000 people registered to run in any of the races.
Registering for the Cairns Marathon 2025
Registrations to run in the 2025 Cairns Marathon are almost full, but there are a few places left for the Royal Rehab LifeWorks 5km Walk and the Ronald McDonald House Charity 2km. Tickets are between $40 and $70 per person, and you can register online via the Cairns Marathon website.
Changed traffic conditions in Cairns
While these races are taking place, downtown Cairns will have some road closures and changed traffic conditions. Please rearrange your driving plans in downtown Cairns accordingly! There will also be no parking on the Cairns Esplanade for Sunday the 13th July.
Road closures on Sunday 13th July, 2025
- Cairns Esplanade
- Abbott Street
- Lily Street
- Lake Street
Temporary road closures on Sunday 13th July 2025 (5am - 11:30am)
- Spence Street - Lily Street
- Upward Street - Kerwin Street
- Esplanade - Lake Street
- McKenzie Street - Airport Ave
- Spence Street - Shields Street
- Cairns Hospital - Charles Street
Highlights of the Cairns Marathon
The Cairns Marathon courses take runners through the picturesque city of Cairns, with views of the Coral Sea and surrounding mountains. The looped course is relatively flat and follows the Cairns Esplanade, with a few routes onto nearby streets. Admire the swaying palm trees and tropical scenery of Cairns as you run the course or cheer on the runners. Bringing a vibrant community atmosphere to the city, the Cairns Marathon is an amazing local event for everyone.
Visiting Cairns during the 2025 Marathon Festival
Whether you're visiting Cairns for the 2025 Marathon as a runner or spectator, or you just happen to be in town at the same time, here is your guide to Cairns! Just note that with the Marathon, school holidays, and other local events nearby, Cairns is quite busy in July. You'll want to book your accommodations and tours in advance if possible.
Take a look at these activities around Cairns!
Where to stay in Cairns
There are lots of accommodations in Cairns to suit all types of travellers! Hotels and luxury accommodations are plentiful in downtown. For those on a budget, you can also find backpacker hostels and budget hotels. Just make note of the busy atmosphere around Cairns in July - hotels may book out so organise accommodation in advance!
How to get around Cairns
While staying in Cairns, you don't need a car if you are based on the downtown area. Cairns is a very walkable city! Plus you can often add accommodation pick-up to guided tours if it's not already included. There are also taxis and public buses if you need them. However, if you want to do some day trips outside the city, a car can be handy. There are several places to rent a car in Cairns if you do decide to go on a self-guided day trip.
Things to do in Cairns
Outside of the Cairns Marathon festivities, there are so many amazing things to do in Cairns. Of course, the most famous nearby attraction is the Great Barrier Reef. Try snorkelling or diving, sailing, scenic flights, or island-hopping to experience the wonders of the reef!
You can also explore the mainland around Cairns. Places like Kuranda, the Atherton Tablelands, and the Daintree Rainforest are filled with waterfalls, wildlife, swimming spots, small towns, and cultural attractions. Cairns is also known for its adrenaline activities, and its charming town centre with various galleries, shops, markets, and eateries.
