10 of the Best Coastal Walks, Runs and Rides in Australia

Australia has some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the world so it makes sense that there are a ton of amazing events that capitalize on the jaw dropping views along Australia’s coastal paths, trails and roads.

Whether you want to run, ride or walk, here are 10 of the best coastal events on offer in Australia.

Great Ocean and Otway Classic: 27 April 2019

The Great Ocean & Otway Classic Ride offers a spectacular ride along the world famous Great Ocean Road. Attracting competitors from both Australia and from around the World, the 145km ride features over 90km of road closures through the picturesque farmlands of the Otway ranges to Lorne and then back along the famous Great Ocean Road to Torquay. Also on offer are a 60km social ride and the 204km Amy's ride.

Great Ocean Road Running Festival: 18 – 19 May 2019

Surely one of the most stunning marathons in the world, the Great Ocean Road Running Festival follows the world famous Great Ocean Road in Victoria. The festival attracts thousands of participants and offers a wide range of distances from the 1.5km Kid’s Gallop to a 5km or 10km walk as well as longer distance runs including the 60km Ultra Marathon.

Coastrek Mornington Peninsula: 24 May 2019

The Coastrek team trekking challenge aims to get more women moving and has become one of the most successful fundraising events in Australia, having raised over $25 million for charity over the last 10 years. Supporting the Fred Hollows Foundation, each trekker will help make a difference in preventing and treating avoidable blindness around the world. The Melbourne Coastrek offers both a 30km and 60km trek along the beautiful Mornington Peninsula Coastline. Get your friends together or join a team to support this wonderful cause. There are also Coastrek events in Sydney and Queensland.

Ballina to Byron Bay Charity Walk: 26 May 2019

As the name suggests, this northern New South Wales walk follows the stunning coastline from Ballina to Byron Bay. You can either walk the full 37km route or choose shorter routes to Lennox Head (13km) or Broken Head (25km). The event raises important funds for the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter. Also in the series is the Tweed Coast Charity Walk on 17^th March 2019. The walk offers a 19km route from Fingal Head to Norries Head as well as shorter 7km and 12km options.

5 Lands Walk: 22 June 2019

Held on New South Wales’ beautiful Central Coast, the 5 Lands Walk is a 10km coastal walk from MacMasters Beach to Terrigal. The coastal route passes through Copacabana, Avoca Beach and North Avoca following the beaches, headlands, bush tracks and back-roads. The event is proudly held on the traditional lands of the Darkinjung people and features Aboriginal ceremony and culture throughout the walk. In addition, you can expect music, food, artworks, gigantic kites, dance, sculptures on the beach, craft workshops and maybe you will even see some whales.

Broome Inernational Airport Marathon: 7 July 2019

Held at low tide on Cable Beach, the Broome International Airport Marathon is your chance to run a marathon on a beach. The event takes place at low tide to ensure hard packed sand for running on. Additional distances include the half marathon and 10.5km dash.

Coastal Classic: 7 September 2019

Taking place in New South Wales’ Royal National Park, the Coastal Classic is a 30km trail run along one of the most stunning tracks in Australia. Offering breathtaking coastal views from the beach and cliff tops, as well as rocky terrain, sand running, cliff-tops, bushland, rainforest and steep hill inclines.

Great Island Trek Magnetic Island: 21 September 2019

A 15km or 30km walk or run across Magnetic Island in the world famous Great Barrier Reef, Queensland. Just 8km offshore from Townsville and accessible by ferry, Magnetic Island is a haven for wildlife with 22 species of endangered plants and animals. The event is not a race but offers the chance to enjoy views of beautiful secluded bays and maybe see koalas, sea turtles and other wildlife.

Run Albany: 9 – 10 November 2019

Run Albany is a trail running weekend in former whaling town Albany in Western Australia. This event promises absolutely breathtaking coastal views and distances to suit all runners from kids runs to the 48km Ultra Marathon. Don’t miss the 7km night run that offers you the chance to run through the 'Field of Light: Avenue of Honor' art installation.

MSWA Albany Ride: 2020 Date TBC

The MSWA Albany Ride is your chance to jump on your bike and explore Albany in Western Australia’s magnificent scenery. The event offers a 10km family ride as well as a 40km and 80km ride. All funds raised by the MSWA Albany Ride help support people living with MS and all neurological conditions in the Great Southern region.

Photo by Michael Lämmli on Unsplash