SF Marathon Ranked #2 Most Beautiful Marathon in the USA

Our city, your course, and now officially one of the most breathtaking races in the world!

From postcard views to once-in-a-lifetime finish line feels, the San Francisco Marathon is officially one of the most breathtaking races on the planet.

We’ve always believed our course was something special—but now, it’s official. The San Francisco Marathon has been named the #7 Most Beautiful Marathon in the World and the #2 Most Beautiful Marathon in the U.S., according to SportsShoes.com, a leading global source for endurance athlete gear and inspiration.

From sea to skyline, they called out our race as one that runners “will remember for a lifetime.” We couldn’t agree more.

Want to feel the energy for yourself? Watch our official race recap video for a front-row seat to the action. From golden sunrise starts to Golden Gate photo ops, it’s got all the vibes.

What makes us beautiful? It’s more than the view.

When we say iconic, we’re talking about more than running across the Golden Gate Bridge. We’re talking:

  • A golden sunrise start on the waterfront of the Embarcadero 🌅
  • Coastal air and peak views as you pass the Marina, Crissy Field, and the Presidio
  • Landmarks like Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Park’s de Young Museum, the Conservatory of Flowers, and the Bison Paddock
  • Up-close views of sports stadiums (Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants, and the Chase Center, home of the Golden State Warriors)
  • A mix of both quieter scenic trails and buzzy city streets, with local run clubs hosting cheer stations to support their community

“There’s nothing like seeing the beautiful sunrise over the water as you’re running downtown and then up to the bridge. It really leaves you breathless.”—Lindsay Walter, 2020 SFM Ambassador

“I know what it feels like to cross the Golden Gate Bridge. Twice. On foot… I know what it feels like to have a favorite marathon.” —Ethan Newberry, The Ginger Runner

Nature’s air conditioning: our race day secret

Many people assume that July in San Francisco means blistering heat. But locals know the truth: summer here is famously cool (hello, Karl the Fog 👋). With average race day temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit, it’s actually one of the best big-city marathons for ideal race day weather. Cool air, coastal breezes, and that signature SF fog? Basically, nature’s air conditioning.

In fact, July is one of the driest months of the year in San Francisco, with virtually no rainfall. This means you can expect clear skies, an average temperature of 64 degrees, and comfortable running conditions on race day.

This Race Is for Everyone

You don’t have to run 26.2 miles to be part of the experience. We’re proud to be an inclusive, multi-distance event that welcomes runners of all backgrounds and abilities:

Want to see what all the buzz is about?

Register today

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