Great Whitehaven Beach Run
Official WebsiteAbout This Event
Race along the iconic white sands of Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays. Choose from a half‑marathon, 10km, 5km or junior fun runs, all on a stunning beach terrain. Perfect for families, beginners and seasoned runners seeking a tropical challenge.
Events & entry fees
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Sunday 20 June
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Half Marathon10am$155
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10km10:25am$155
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5km10:40am$155
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Junior 1.5km Kids12:30pm$65
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Junior 500m Kids12:30pm$65
Entry fees as listed on 14 Oct 2026. Prices often rise after early bird, so check the entry page for today's price.
Quick Facts
- Date
- Sunday, 20 June 2027
- Terrain
- Beach
- Location
- Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays, QLD
- Entry Fee
- $155 (General) / $145 (Early Bird)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Start Time
- 10:00 AM
- Good for Beginners
- Yes – 5km and junior distances are beginner‑friendly, while the half‑marathon offers a greater challenge for experienced runners.
Free training
Training for Great Whitehaven Beach Run?
Race day is Sun 20 Jun 2027, 33 weeks away. Free training plans start up to 20 weeks before race day, so a plan for it can start from 1 February. Save it now; until then, 12 weeks of building is a good start.
Free with a MyRaceHub account. Saves the race to your races and opens training setup.
Event Details
Course Description
The Great Whitehaven Beach Run takes you across the world‑renowned seven‑kilometre stretch of silica‑white sand. The course follows the shoreline, offering uninterrupted ocean views, gentle dunes and soft sand that tests endurance while providing a breathtaking backdrop. The half‑marathon covers roughly 21.1km of beach, the 10km and 5km loops start and finish at the same point, and junior races use shorter sections near the race village. Expect a mix of flat sand and occasional gentle undulations; the soft footing makes footwear optional but recommended for support. Race kits are handed out on the beach, and a post‑race ceremony celebrates all finishers.
Getting There
Competitors travel to Whitehaven Beach via a chartered Cruise Whitsundays ferry. Check‑in at the Port of Airlie terminal (6:45‑7:15 am) and board the 7:30 am ferry to Hamilton Island, then board for the 9:15 am arrival at Whitehaven. Spectator tickets are included with a competitor registration. For detailed parking, transport options and any additional arrivals, visit the official event website.
Where to Stay
Places to stay near the start, priced for race weekend.
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Weather & What to Pack
June is winter in Australia, but the Whitsundays enjoy mild, tropical conditions. Expect daytime temperatures between 18‑24 °C, low to moderate humidity and plenty of sunshine. A light wind is common. Dress in breathable layers – a short‑sleeve top, running shorts or leggings, and a light jacket for early morning chill. Stay hydrated, even in cooler weather, and consider sunscreen for the strong sun.
Race details last updated 14 Oct 2026
Ready to run Great Whitehaven Beach Run?
Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
How do I register and what are the entry fees?
Register online before the close date of 18 June 2027. Early‑bird fees are $145 for all adult distances; general entry is $155. Junior races cost $55 early‑bird or $65 general. Registration includes the chartered ferry transfer.
When should I arrive and what are the start times?
Check‑in for ferry passengers is 6:45‑7:15 am at Port of Airlie. Race starts are 10:00 am (Half Marathon), 10:25 am (10km), 10:40 am (5km) and 12:30 pm (Junior races). Arriving early for check‑in and a brief pre‑race briefing is recommended.
Are running shoes required on the beach?
Shoes are optional for this beach run, but most participants wear them for support on the soft sand. If you choose to run barefoot, ensure the sand is clean and you are comfortable with the terrain.
What does the registration fee include?
The fee covers your race kit, the chartered ferry transfer to and from Whitehaven Beach, and a wristband needed for the return trip. Spectator tickets must be purchased with a competitor registration.
What is the cancellation or withdrawal policy?
Cancellations made within 7 days of the event are 100 % non‑refundable. Withdrawals on race day must be reported to an official; the cancellation fee is also 100 %.
parkruns near this race
Free, timed 5km every Saturday morning. A good hit-out between races, or an easy shakeout the day before this one.
- Hamilton Island parkrun Sat 7:00am · 11 km away · Hamilton Island
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