The YMCA Sandbar Half Marathon & 5K is back in action for and much-anticipated. This annual event has been held in Fernandina Beach, Florida for seven years and runners from all over the country look forward to this race. The course is a thing of beauty, running through some of the most stunning parts of Fernandina Beach. The town is famous for its historical charm and natural beauty, and the race is the perfect way to experience all that Fernandina Beach has to offer.
YMCA Sandbar Half Marathon & 5k
Date
October 17, 2026
Starting Time
7:00 AM
Course
Road
Fees
$65
Location
Fernandina Beach
Participants
1-100
Terrain
Fast & Flat
Environment
Urban
Temperature
High: 85°
/ Low: 65°
Overview
Course Description
The course is a two-looped out-and-back run that starts and ends at the South Beach Parking Lot. With much of the course under a tree canopy, runners will enjoy a respite from the scorching Florida sun as they race. The course makes its way north on Beach Road for about 6.6 miles before making a U-turn and heading back south. The first loop requires runners to stay with the flow of traffic after the turnaround at Blindpass Park, while the second loop requires runners to run facing oncoming traffic.
Every racer will receive a finisher medal, race shirt, and free draft beer at the Sand Bar Tiki & Grill, where hot meals will also be served for racers and spectators. Live music will entertain racers while they wait for the awards ceremony. With a three and a half hour time limit for the Half Marathon, runners will have to maintain an average pace of around 16 minutes per mile.
The YMCA Sandbar Half Marathon & 5K is a race like no other. From its stunning course to the historical charm of Fernandina Beach, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience. So come out and run with your fellow racers, and soak up all the amazing sights and sounds that Fernandina Beach has to offer!
Past Results
