If you’re planning a race that combines running with the most beautiful scenery in the world, these half-marathons should be on your radar. Get ready for some unforgettable experiences in 2026! Below are the ones we consider the most beautiful.

1. Great Ocean Road Half Marathon – Australia 🇦🇺 (in the above picture)
Location: Lorne to Apollo Bay, Victoria
When It’s Held (2025): May 17, 2025
Why It’s Beautiful: This coastal route offers dramatic ocean views, cliffs, beaches, and the iconic Twelve Apostles. The race is perfect for those looking to run along one of the world’s most scenic roads.

2. New York City Half Marathon – USA 🇺🇸
Location: Central Park to Wall Street, New York City
When It’s Held (2025): March 16, 2025
Why It’s Beautiful: Run through Central Park’s greenery and pass iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. The course offers a mix of nature and the vibrant energy of New York City.

3. Reykjavik Half Marathon – Iceland 🇮🇸
Location: Reykjavik
When It’s Held (2025): August 16, 2025
Why It’s Beautiful: Iceland’s dramatic volcanic landscape and glaciers make this one of the most unique and scenic half-marathons. You’ll run through lava fields, rivers, and geothermal hot springs, with the midnight sun adding to the magic.

4. Cape Town Half Marathon – South Africa 🇿🇦
Location: Cape Town
When It’s Held (2025): March 9, 2025
Why It’s Beautiful: With Table Mountain towering in the background, this race takes you through the city and along the breathtaking coastline. Cape Town’s natural beauty is a perfect setting for a long-distance race.

5. The Lisbon Half Marathon – Portugal 🇵🇹
Location: Lisbon
When It’s Held (2025): March 23, 2025
Why It’s Beautiful: The Lisbon Half Marathon runs along the Tagus River, with incredible views of the 25 de Abril Bridge, Atlantic Ocean, and Lisbon’s historic architecture. The course provides a perfect blend of urban beauty and nature.

6. Prague Half Marathon – Czech Republic 🇨🇿
Location: Prague
When It’s Held (2025): April 5, 2025
Why It’s Beautiful: The course winds through Prague’s cobblestone streets, past landmarks like Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge, with beautiful river views and old-world charm.

7. Loch Ness Half Marathon – Scotland 🏴
Location: Inverness, Scotland
When It’s Held (2025): September 28, 2025
Why It’s Beautiful: Running along the shores of the famous Loch Ness, surrounded by the rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands, this race offers a stunning and serene atmosphere.

8. Dubrovnik Half Marathon – Croatia 🇭🇷
Location: Dubrovnik
When It’s Held (2025): April 6, 2025
Why It’s Beautiful: Dubrovnik’s ancient Old Town and the sparkling Adriatic Sea provide an unforgettable backdrop for this race. Run past centuries-old city walls and cobblestone streets, while enjoying panoramic views of the coastline.

9. The Bali Spirit Half Marathon – Indonesia 🇮🇩
Location: Ubud, Bali
When It’s Held (2025): March 23, 2025
Why It’s Beautiful: Bali’s lush green rice paddies, rainforests, and temples make this race through Ubud an immersive experience. The tropical atmosphere and cultural richness of Bali add to the charm of this event.

10. Honolulu Half Marathon – USA 🇺🇸
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
When It’s Held (2025): December 7, 2025
Why It’s Beautiful: With the Hawaiian sun rising over the Pacific Ocean, this race provides stunning coastal views, tropical breezes, and the iconic Diamond Head in the distance. A paradise for runners!

Sources:

• Great Ocean Road Running Festival: greatoceanroadrun.com.au
• NYC Half Marathon: nyrr.org/races/nyc-half
• Reykjavik Marathon: marathon.is
• Cape Town Marathon: capetownmarathon.com
• Lisbon Half Marathon: lisbonhalfmarathon.com
• Prague Half Marathon: runczech.com
• Loch Ness Marathon: lochnessmarathon.com
• Dubrovnik Half Marathon: dubrovnikmarathon.com
• Bali Spirit Festival: balispiritfestival.com
• Honolulu Marathon: honolulumarathon.org

These half-marathons offer a unique combination of scenic beauty and personal challenge. Whether you’re running through Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, the historic streets of Prague, or the tropical beaches of Hawaii, each race provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the world on foot. Mark your calendars for 2026 and get ready for an unforgettable running adventure!