Run for Fun – Race Along the Emerald Coast this Fall

While visiting the beach is a restful, relaxing experience, some guests like to earn their rest by participating in a 5K run while at the beach. Participating in a 5K, 10K or Half Marathon is a great feeling. You get up early and feel accomplished even though the day has just begun. In addition, you’ll get your daily dose of exercise while supporting some great local causes. Feeling inspired? Here’s some of our upcoming runs: 

30A 5K and Half Marathon (Oct 13-15)

Looking for a more challenging and rewarding run? Sign up for the 30A 5K and Half Marathon, which benefits The sonder Project, a locally-based non-profit that focuses on high-impact, sustainable solutions aimed at ending extreme poverty worldwide. The race weekend kicks off on Friday, Oct. 13 with BBQ Festival from 6-9 p.m. at Marina Park at WaterColor. On Saturday, racers and guests are invited to packet pickup and expo from 10am – 6pm at Gulf Place (corner of Hwy 30A & CR 393 in Santa Rosa Beach). On Sunday, at 7am the 30A Half Marathon starts, followed by 30A 5K race at 7:25am. The USA Track & Field (USATF) certified, out-and-back route starts at Gulf Place and heads east through Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach and WaterColor. The Lake House on Western Lake will serve as the official turn around point. The post-race party will begin at 8:00 a.m., 5K awards at 9:00 a.m. and the half marathon awards at 10:15 a.m. The post-race party will continue into the afternoon, and children and families are encouraged to join. Stay with Newman-Dailey and save 15% on your accommodations. To learn more or register for the race, visit 30ahalf.com. 

.5K Donut Dash (Oct. 14)

This super fun run ends at AJ’s Oyster Shanty in Fort Walton Beach and benefits the Emerald Coast Austism Center. Kick off the run with donuts, orange juice, milk and coffee and stick around after for live music by Austin Jennings and fun activities for kids, including Bounce House, Face Painting, Spin Art, and donut eating contest. Adult beverages provided by Lewis Bear Beer Company. Entry fee $25. Click here to learn more or register for the dash. 

LuLu’s Marlin 5K Walk/Run (Nov. 4)

This family fun 5K benefits Destin Middle School’s athletic department. Register at 7am for the 8am race. The course starts at LuLu’s Restaurant and travels through Regatta Bay neighborhood and returns to LuLu’s. Stay for the post run party featuring food and entertainment. Not a racer? Come cheer on your friends and pay $5 for the post-race party. Race entry fee: $30 Learn more or register online at lulubuffett.com/destin 

6th Annual 30A 10K Thanksgiving Day Races (Nov. 23)

Will you be visiting South Walton or Destin for Thanksgiving? If so, this is the family race for you! Ranked one of the top 5 Thanksgiving Day races in America by Southern Living Magazine, all proceeds from the race are donated to local charities in Bay, Walton and Okaloosa Counties. Packet pickup is on Wednesday and the 10K race kicks off at 7:30am on Thursday, Nov. 23, followed by the 5K race at 7:45am and 1 mile fun run at 9:30am. All races begin and end in Rosemary Beach Town Center. Racers travel down Highway 30A to WaterSound and return for post-race party in Rosemary beach. To learn more or register visit 30a10k.com. 

Ready to start planning your next beach vacation and race? View our collection of South Walton and Destin vacation rentals online or call one of our friendly vacation specialists at 1-800-225-7652 to help narrow your search. 

See you @ the beach!