The 2026 Run Oak Island is scheduled for February 14, 2026, in Oak Island, North Carolina. The event takes place in a scenic coastal setting, with the start and finish area located near 4815 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465. On the day of the event, participants can expect mild to warm temperatures, with a high of around 58°F and mostly sunny conditions. The event features a series of road running races that traverse a mix of oceanfront, marsh, and residential areas, offering runners a unique and visually appealing course. The event includes multiple race distances, from a 1-mile fun run to a 26.25-mile ultra marathon, with a focus on accessibility, certification, and a variety of participation options.
What distances are available for this event?
→10K (6.2 miles) starting at 7:00 AM
→5K (3.1 miles) starting at 8:30 AM
→1 Mile starting at 9:15 AM
→Ultra Marathon (26.25 miles) starting at 7:45 AM
→Full Marathon (26.2 miles) starting at 7:45 AM
→East Half Marathon (13.1 miles) starting at 7:45 AM
→West Half Marathon (13.1 miles) starting at 8:00 AM
What is the schedule for the event?
→Saturday, February 14, 2026:
• 10K at 7:00 AM
• 5K at 8:30 AM
• 1 Mile at 9:15 AM
→Sunday, February 15, 2026:
• Ultra Marathon, Full Marathon, and East Half Marathon at 7:45 AM
• West Half Marathon at 8:00 AM
How much does registration cost?
→1 Mile: $30
→5K: $55
→10K: $70
→Half Marathon: $130
→Full Marathon: $145
→Ultra Marathon: $155
→Note: Prices increase in 4 days; early registration saves 50% off race-day pricing
What are the course details for the Sunday races?
→Ultra Marathon (26.25 miles): The "World's Shortest Ultra" includes the full marathon course plus an extra 0.05 mile. Features sunrise views over marshes, shaded sections through a country club and arboretum, a lighthouse photo opportunity, ocean views for 11 miles, and a flat finish after crossing the Intracoastal Waterway bridge.
→Full Marathon (26.2 miles): Shares the same scenic, flat route as the ultra without the extra 0.05 mile. Certified as a Boston Marathon qualifier with USATF certification (NC19001BDS).
→East Half Marathon (13.1 miles): Competitive, flat course starting with the full/ultra field. Runs out toward the lighthouse with ocean views, then breaks away on 46th Street for a fast finish. USATF certified (NC19031BDS) with a 3.5-hour time limit.
→West Half Marathon (13.1 miles): Scenic oceanfront running for 5 miles, then two ascents of the 65-foot Intracoastal Waterway bridge around mile 9. Walker-friendly with a 6-hour 45-minute time limit. USATF certified (NC16006BW).
What are the course details for the Saturday races?
→10K (6.2 miles): Flat, fast out-and-back on Dolphin Drive and Beach Drive with approximately 2 miles of oceanfront running on paved roads. Minimal turns. USATF certified (NC24003DF).
→5K (3.1 miles): Completely flat with over 1 mile of oceanfront road running. Minimal turns designed for PR attempts. USATF certified (NC16005BW).
→1 Mile: Fun run/walk on Dolphin Drive (backroad section). Not timed or certified.
What unique features are included in the event?
→Massive 3D finisher medals for all distances, ranging from 4" for 5K up to 7" for marathon distances.
→Part of the BAM! (#BigAssMedal) Race Series—complete one event at each of three coastal NC races in 2026 to earn a bonus series medal.
What is included in the registration?
→Post-race celebration with Carolina BBQ, beer (ticket included), and live music.
→Pacers provided for marathon (3:30–6:35) and East Half Marathon (1:40–3:30).
→Virtual race options available with mailed swag.
Are there any awards or prizes?
→Awards and prizes are not detailed in the provided information. However, the event includes a variety of medals and challenges for participants to collect based on their race participation.
What are the packet pickup times and locations?
→Packet pickup is available on Friday from 12–7 PM and Saturday from 12–5 PM at the St. James Community Center, located at 4136 Southport-Supply Rd SE, St James, NC.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is 2026 Run Oak Island?
A: The event takes place on 14 February 2026.
Q: Where is the event held?
A: The event is held in Oak Island, United States.
Q: What distances are available?
A: Available distances: 1.6 km, 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, 42 km.
