Yes, it does. And not just any marathon. Ibiza has its own internationally recognised road race, designed to showcase the island beyond its beaches and nightlife: the Santa Eulària Ibiza Marathon. Held every spring, this event has become one of the most important sporting dates in the Balearic Islands and a powerful reason to visit Ibiza outside the summer season.
In 2026, the Santa Eulària Ibiza Marathon will take place on Saturday, 18 April, offering runners and visitors the chance to experience the island at one of its most pleasant times of year. With mild temperatures, green landscapes and a relaxed atmosphere, the race answers a question many travellers ask when planning an active holiday: yes, Ibiza has its own marathon, and it is well worth travelling for.
A marathon that shows a different side of Ibiza
The Santa Eulària Ibiza Marathon was created with a clear objective: to combine sport, tourism and territory. Rather than concentrating on a single urban circuit, the race crosses different parts of the island, linking coast and interior, towns and countryside. The result is a route that allows participants to discover Ibiza step by step, far from clichés.
This is not an event designed only for elite runners. It is also aimed at visitors who want to travel with a purpose, enjoy outdoor sport and experience Ibiza in a more authentic way. For this reason, the marathon offers three official distances, making it accessible to a wide range of runners.
Three distances, one shared finish line
Participants can choose between:
- Marathon (42.195 km)
- 22 km
- 12 km
All races finish at the same point: the seafront promenade of Santa Eulària des Riu, one of Ibiza’s most pleasant coastal towns. This shared finish line creates a lively atmosphere, with runners from all distances celebrating together by the sea.
The courses are officially certified and carefully designed to balance challenge and enjoyment. Gentle slopes, long open stretches and coastal views make the race demanding but approachable, even for runners who are combining competition with a holiday.
Different starting points across the island
Each distance starts from a different location, offering a varied perspective of Ibiza:
- The marathon starts in Ibiza Town, close to the port, allowing runners to leave the island’s capital behind as they head north.
- The 22 km race begins in Santa Gertrudis, a village in the heart of the island known for its traditional architecture and lively local atmosphere.
- The 12 km race starts at the marina of Santa Eulària, making it ideal for visitors staying in the area.
Transport to the start lines is organised by the event, which is especially convenient for international participants who may not be familiar with the island.
An evening race with Mediterranean light
One of the defining features of the Santa Eulària Ibiza Marathon is its late-afternoon start time. Unlike many marathons held early in the morning, this race takes place as the day begins to cool, with runners reaching the final kilometres during sunset.
This schedule is particularly appealing for visitors. It allows time to enjoy the morning at a relaxed pace, have lunch, and then take part in the race without the pressure of a dawn start. The soft Mediterranean light and sea breeze add to the experience, especially along the coastal sections near the finish line.
Why April is the best moment to run in Ibiza
April is considered one of the best months to visit Ibiza. Daytime temperatures are comfortable, nature is at its greenest, and the island feels open but not crowded. Many hotels, restaurants and beach promenades are already operating, but without the intensity of peak summer.
For runners and their companions, this means the marathon can easily be combined with sightseeing, gastronomy and outdoor activities. Coastal walks, village visits and quiet beaches are all part of the experience during this time of year.
Runner services and race atmosphere
In the days leading up to the event, the Runner Expo is held at the Palacio de Congresos de Ibiza, where participants collect their bibs and find information about the race and the island. The expo also serves as a meeting point for runners from different countries, reinforcing the international character of the event.
On race day, the organisation provides refreshment points, medical assistance and clear signage along the routes. Spectators can easily follow the race, especially near the finish line in Santa Eulària, where the atmosphere builds throughout the afternoon and evening.
Planning your trip around the marathon
Registration for the Santa Eulària Ibiza Marathon 2026 is already open, with tiered pricing that increases as the event approaches. Early registration is recommended, as the race attracts thousands of runners from across Europe.
For accommodation, staying in Santa Eulària des Riu is a practical choice, as it is the location of the finish line and post-race activities. The town offers a wide range of hotels and apartments and is well connected to the rest of the island.
Ibiza Airport has direct flights from many European cities, and spring fares are usually more affordable than in summer. Renting a car is useful for exploring the island, although public transport and race shuttles cover most event-related needs.
So, does Ibiza have its own marathon?
The answer is clear. Yes, Ibiza has its own marathon, and it is much more than a sporting event. The Santa Eulària Ibiza Marathon is an invitation to discover the island through movement, landscape and local life. It combines running with travel in a way that fits perfectly with Ibiza’s springtime identity.
For visitors looking to plan an active getaway, experience Ibiza beyond the high season and take part in a well-organised international race, this marathon is one of the best reasons to put Ibiza on the calendar in April 2026.
