Overview
The Sanya International Marathon brings approximately 12k runners each February to Hainan Island's tropical beach capital. The course follows the Sanya Bay and Dadonghai coastline with coconut palms, South China Sea views, and warm winter sunshine. February temperatures in the mid-20s °C make it China's premier tropical winter marathon destination.
Sanya International Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Sanya International Marathon 2027 race day
The next Sanya International Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 28 February 2027 with a 7:30 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 100 m of climbing on a mostly flat with gentle undulations layout.
Sanya International Marathon course route
The Sanya International Marathon is a scenic coastal road that starts and finishes at the Sanya Phoenix Island or Sanya Bay area. The loop follows Sanya Bay coastline, passes Dadonghai Beach and the Luhuitou peninsula, and returns along the tropical waterfront highway. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Spectators gather along the waterfront, at the start-finish festival, and at organised cheer stations on the most scenic coastal stretches.
Sanya International Marathon elevation profile
The Sanya International Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 100 metres of climbing and 95 metres of descent, with a net climb of 5 metres from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The Sanya International Marathon is held in February, typically on the fourth Sunday. Registration is through https://www.sanyamarathon.com/.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Sanya International Marathon elevation profile?
- The Sanya International Marathon has 100 metres of total climbing and 95 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is mostly flat with gentle undulations, with 5 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Sanya International Marathon?
- The Sanya International Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Coastal course starting and finishing at the Sanya Phoenix Island or Sanya Bay area.
- What time does the Sanya International Marathon start?
- The 2027 Sanya International Marathon starts at 7:30 am local time on Sunday, 28 February 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.sanyamarathon.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Why is the Sanya Marathon popular in winter?
- Sanya is China's southernmost tropical city, with February temperatures often 22–28 °C (72–82 °F). Runners from cold northern cities flock here for a warm-weather marathon.
- When is the Sanya International Marathon?
- The Sanya International Marathon is held in February, typically on the fourth Sunday. Registration is through https://www.sanyamarathon.com/.
- Is the Sanya Marathon flat?
- The coastal course is largely flat with gentle headland undulations. Heat and humidity are bigger challenges than terrain.
- What beaches does the Sanya Marathon pass?
- The course follows Sanya Bay and Dadonghai Beach along the South China Sea, with coconut palms and resort coastline defining the tropical route.
- What should I know about Sanya heat and sun?
- Even in February, Sanya sun is intense. Sunscreen, hydration, and pacing for warmth are essential despite the flat course.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
Nearby Marathons
Other races closest to Sanya.
Hue, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam· 285 km away
Marathon Hue
The Marathon Hue draws approximately 2,000 finishers each April on a historic urban road in Hue, Vietnam. The imperial-city setting gives the race a distinct cultural identity. The route passes the Perfume River, the Citadel area, and tree-lined roads through Vietnam's former imperial capital. The Perfume River, Citadel area, and tree-lined roads through Vietnam's former imperial capital give April's race a distinct cultural identity on flat terrain.
Next race: Sunday, 4 April 2027
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