The Miami Marathon (Life Time Miami Marathon) offers one of the most scenic marathon courses in the United States, taking runners across the MacArthur Causeway to Miami Beach, through the Art Deco district of South Beach, over the Rickenbacker Causeway with stunning Biscayne Bay views, and past the glittering skyline of Brickell. Miami's tropical energy, Latin culture, and year-round sunshine make it a unique and vibrant race destination.
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Race day gear matters. A major marathon deserves the right shoes — see our best marathon running shoes for data-backed recommendations.
The Event
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Event | Miami Marathon 2026 |
| Date | Sunday, January 25, 2026 |
| Venue | Bayfront Park area (Start/Finish) |
| Address | Biscayne Boulevard, Downtown Miami, FL 33132 |
| Airport | Miami International Airport (MIA) |
January in Miami is warm with temperatures around 16–24°C (61–75°F) and moderate humidity. Start early to beat the heat. Our weather and marathon performance analysis explains how these conditions affect pacing.
Where to Stay
Downtown Miami and Brickell put you closest to the start/finish area. South Beach is a popular choice with beachfront hotels and Art Deco charm, though you'll need to get across the causeway on race morning. Coconut Grove and Coral Gables offer quieter alternatives.
Getting There
From Miami International Airport (MIA)
| Option | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metrorail + Metromover | 25–35 min | $2.25 | Orange Line to Government Center, then free Metromover |
| Taxi/Ride-share | 15–25 min | $20–35 | Direct to downtown |
MIA is very close to downtown. Ride-share is quickest; Metrorail is cheapest.
Where to Eat
Miami's food scene is a melting pot of Cuban, Caribbean, Latin American, and Southern US cuisines. Little Havana's Calle Ocho is a must-visit for Cuban food. Wynwood has trendy restaurants and food halls. South Beach offers everything from high-end dining to casual beachside bites.
Local Food to Try
- Cuban sandwich — Pressed sandwich with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread
- Ceviche — Fresh seafood marinated in citrus juice, a nod to Miami's Latin American influences
- Stone crab claws — A Miami delicacy served cold with mustard sauce, available October through May
Essential Tips
Currency. US Dollar (USD). Cash vs card. Cards accepted everywhere. Cash useful for food trucks and small Cuban restaurants. Tipping. 18–20% at restaurants; $1–2 per drink at bars. Language. English and Spanish. Miami is a bilingual city. Weather. Warm and humid, 16–24°C (61–75°F) — hydrate well. Safety. Tourist areas are safe. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar neighbourhoods at night.
What to See
- South Beach Art Deco Historic District — Pastel-coloured 1930s buildings along Ocean Drive, iconic to Miami
- Wynwood Walls — An outdoor museum of street art and murals in Miami's creative district
- Vizcaya Museum and Gardens — A stunning Italian Renaissance-style villa on the shores of Biscayne Bay
- Little Havana (Calle Ocho) — The heart of Miami's Cuban community with cigar shops, domino parks, and cafe cubano
Quick Reference
| Need | Answer |
|---|---|
| Airport | MIA, ~20 min by taxi |
| Venue | Bayfront Park, Downtown Miami (Start/Finish) |
| Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
| Cash needed? | Rarely |
| Language | English / Spanish |
| Weather | 16–24°C (61–75°F) |
| Emergency | 911 |
Race Preparation:
- What Is a Good Marathon Time? — Percentiles from 1.2M finishes to set your goal
- How Weather Affects Marathon Performance — What race-day conditions mean for your time
Gear:
- Best Marathon Running Shoes — Data-backed picks for race day
Training Plans:
- Marathon Training Plan — Structured programme for every goal time
This guide will be updated as more event details are confirmed. Last updated: June 2026.