Emerald Isle Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K

Emerald Isle Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K is run in Emerald Isle, North Carolina on October 24, 2026. The marathon (26.2 miles) goes off at 7:00 a.m., the half marathon (13.1 miles) at 8:35 a.m. and the 5K at 8:45 a.m. All three courses are USATF-certified and follow the Crystal Coast in Carteret County, with ocean views along the way. Proceeds go to community projects, including the local bike and pedestrian path and a health-focused charity.

Certified and fast is the phrase that matters here: the marathon is set up for a Boston qualifying attempt, the half suits a pace push, and the 5K is there for speed work or a first race. If the marathon is your target, count backward 16 weeks and build a weekly long run toward 20 miles, with a steady dose of goal-pace running in the final month.