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If you ask a runner what's on their bucket list, chances are “running a marathon” will be at the top.
For many, it represents the Holy Grail of running goals - one that covers discipline, strength, and willpower.
And the first step towards ticking off that goal is picking the right marathon.
But it's easy to feel overwhelmed when there are so many incredible marathons across Australia to choose from.
That’s where we come in.
At Badges And Medals, we’ve made medals for countless marathons in Australia, giving us a unique perspective on what makes each race special.
In this article, we’ll break down our four favourites, helping you find the race that not only challenges you but also delivers an incredible experience.
Great Ocean Road Marathon
Best for those wanting great scenery.
If you're searching for a marathon with panoramic views, look no further than the Great Ocean Road Marathon.
This marathon takes place on one of the world's most scenic coastal roads, the Great Ocean Road, which hugs the shores of south-east Victoria.
If you're unsure what that looks like, picture ocean views, dramatic cliffs and untouched beaches.
Its beauty has gained the marathon a massive following.
In fact, according to a recent study, the Great Ocean Road Marathon ranks as the fifth most sought-after marathon in the world, and number one in Australia.
But there's more to this road than its beauty.
It also doubles as a significant piece of Australian history.
The Great Ocean Road is the world's largest war memorial, built by thousands of World War I veterans in honour of their fallen comrades.
This means that as you run, you’ll not only be taking in great views but also a piece of living history.
And the adventure doesn’t end at the finish line.
Your race bib gets you free access to the festivals in Apollo Bay and Lorne, the towns that bookend the course.
You can enjoy yoga classes, kite flying, and live music all weekend.
The only downside is that the Great Ocean Road course dips and climbs to match the coastline, making it tougher on the knees than other marathons on this list.
The race is also slightly longer than a standard marathon at 44km instead of the usual 42.19km.
But if you're up for the challenge and want to run one of the most scenic races in the world, be sure to act fast - there are only 1500 spots up for grabs next year!
When: Sunday 18th May, 2025
Location: Great Ocean Road, VIC
Price: $150
Other events: 60km, 23km, 14km, 12km, 10km (walk), 6km, 5km, 5km (walk), 1.5km (kids)
Recent winner times:
- Johannes Motschmann 2:36:35 (Male)
- Meriem Daoui 3:04:24 (Female)
Gold Coast Marathon
Best for those wanting warmer weather or a new personal best.
Looking to warm up your winter? Or perhaps crush your current personal best?
Then the Gold Coast Marathon could be for you.
The marathon takes place on one of the Sunshine State's most famous coastlines, where even in winter there are clear skies and temps of about 20 degrees.
Talk about a refreshing change from the chills of the southern states!
Those who sign up for this race get to watch the sunrise over golden, world-famous beaches, like Surfers Paradise.
And as you soak in that breath-taking view, you’ll also be completing the flattest marathon in Australia.
This means that setting a new personal best is a real possibility.
In fact, about 60% of runners smash their personal bests on this course!
It’s no wonder so many folks use the Gold Coast Marathon as a stepping stone to qualify for other big-name races, like the Boston Marathon.
Plus, once you cross the finish line, you’re in the heart of one of Australia’s top holiday spots.
With famous parks, restaurants, and beaches just a short hop away, the Gold Coast Marathon is the ultimate way to swap winter woes for fun in the sun.
When: Sunday 6th July, 2025
Location: Gold Coast, QLD
Price: TBC
Other events: 63.3km, 42.19km (wheelchair race), 21.1km, 10km, 10km (wheelchair race), 5km, 4km (wheelchair race), 4km (kids), 2km (kids)
Recent winner times:
- Timothy Kipkorir Kattam 2:08:52 (Male)
- Yuki Nakamura 2:24:22 (Female)
Sydney Marathon
Best for those wanting iconic Australian sights.
Next on our list is the largest marathon in the southern hemisphere: the Sydney Marathon.
What started in 2000 as a test event for the Sydney Olympics has skyrocketed into one of the most prestigious marathons in the world.
The growth has been nothing short of explosive, with the number of finishers jumping from 5,300 in 2022 to 24,000 in 2024 - nearly doubling each year.
So, what’s driving all this excitement?
The biggest factor is likely the scenery: the race takes you across the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge during one of the few times it's close to traffic, giving you views of the Sydney Opera House.
To make it even more special, the finish line sits right at the foot of the Opera House.
The Sydney Marathon has gained such a big following that it was this year named the seventh World Marathon Major – a group of races that represent the 'gold standard' in marathon running.
This puts it on par with the New York City, London, Tokyo, Boston, Berlin, and Chicago marathons.
The only catch?
It’s a hilly course, with a total of 317m up and 400m down, so don’t expect a personal best here.
But if you’re looking for a marathon that’s equal parts challenge and iconic views, the Sydney Marathon might be for you!
When: Sunday 31st August, 2025
Location: Sydney, NSW
Price: TBC
Other events: 10km, 4.2km
Recent winner times:
- Brimin Misoi 2:06:18 (Male)
- Workenesh Edesa 2:21:41 (Female)
Melbourne Marathon
Best for those looking for a bit of everything.
When you think of marathons in Australia, the Melbourne Marathon is one of the first that comes to mind.
The marathon was launched in the 70s following the success of the New York City Marathon and has since ballooned into an icon in its own right.
In fact, a recent study showed it has surpassed New York in terms of popularity, coming in at the sixth most in-demand marathon in the world.
Yes, you read that correctly!
To put that in perspective, the New York City Marathon is ranked ten spots behind.
The Melbourne Marathon is so popular that there's a ballot each year for tickets.
But what makes the Melbourne Marathon such a hit?
Well, there are a few things to point to.
First, the course is flat, which makes it easier for runners to keep the same pace throughout the race.
This also makes it wheelchair-accessible, meaning more people can join the marathon. Second, the course winds past iconic Melbourne landmarks, like Mr Moon of Luna Park and the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Third, the marathon (as part of the wider 'Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival') is big on sustainability.
Take its medals, for example.
This year, each medal helps prevent two plastic bottles from entering the ocean, thanks to the festival's partnership with Badges And Medals.
A quick calculator crunch shows that 11,000 people signed up to run the marathon this year, that's 22,000 plastic bottles!
So if you’re looking for a marathon with a bit of everything, this might be the one for you!
When: Sunday 13th October, 2024
Location: Melbourne, VIC
Price: $195
Other events: 42.19km (wheelchair race), 21.1km, 10km, 5km, 2.5km (walk), 1km (kids)
Recent winner times:
- Reece Edwards 2:14:34 (Male)
- Gemma Maini 2:35:25 (Female)
Want to learn more?
With so many marathons in Australia to choose from, it's easy to feel stuck.
But that stops now.
We’ve taken the guesswork out of your decision by sharing our four favourite marathons and what each one has to offer - whether it’s the breath-taking scenery, iconic landmarks, a flat course, or a mix of all three.
If you still have questions or need more advice on which marathon suits you best, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
We’re here to help you take that next step - literally!