Top running and walking events in Malaga attract visitors from all over Spain and Europe every year. While serious runners come here for big events like the Malaga Marathon, the Costa del Sol also offers lots of fun charity runs and local walking events that anyone can take part in. Think sea air, sunshine, palm-lined promenades and routes that turn exercise into an experience, not a chore. Below, we list our top 8 Costa del Sol runs and walks in 2026, plus links to many others, as well as useful tips on where to stay.
The obvious reason why Malaga and the Costa del Sol are perfect for running and walking events is the climate. Especially in late autumn, winter and early spring the weather is mild, sunny, and not too hot to exercise outdoors.
The scenery here is another highlight. The Costa del Sol is a runner’s or walker’s dream, because you can find lots of long seaside routes, fun mountain trails and picturesque city runs.
Top running and walking events in Malaga and Southern Spain include marathons and half marathons. Some of the larger races, like the Malaga Marathon in November and the Malaga Half Marathon in March, attracted 8,000 and 20,000 participants respectively in 2025.
However, not all events are about speed or competition. Smaller local charity events offer both long distances and inclusive short walks. For example, the one our team took part in in Rincón de la Victoria was a real feel-good community event. It offered a 5 km run, as well as a 500-metre walk so participants of all ages and abilities could take part – from parents with babies in pushchairs to elderly people, as well as disabled participants and wheelchair users.
Below, we highlight some of the most popular events across the Costa del Sol for all levels of runners and walkers…
The Generali Malaga Marathon is nothing short of iconic. It covers the classic 42.195 km distance through the city’s historic streets and past landmarks like the Alcazaba fortress. There’s also a half marathon option, so different levels can take part, and the mild November weather is perfect for an early winter race. Get more information here.
Held each spring, the TotalEnergies Málaga Half Marathon is also an urban 21.1 km run through Malaga city. It attracts lots of international competitors as well as locals. In fact, it has one of the highest participation numbers among half marathons in Spain, so apply early here.
Bored of flat city runs? Then the Sierra Blanca Trail might be for you. This event takes runners into the foothills of the Sierra Blanca mountains, just inland from Marbella, with a variety of inclusive routes ranging from short trails to highly challenging technical hill runs. The distances range from 10–30 km. Find out more here.
Taking place in the autumn, the Fuengirola Half Marathon attracts runners from across Spain and beyond. It’s a scenic 21.1 km race along the town’s seafront and streets that also features a 5 km option, so it’s suitable for a wider range of running abilities. The atmosphere is buzzing and the run ends with a lively celebration. Get more information here.
This is a fun race down the iconic La Carihuela beach promenade in Torremolinos. The main event is a 10 km run with age categories from teens to seniors, and there’s also a 1-mile run and shorter distances available for younger, older and disabled participants. To top it off, there’s a festive finish at Plaza del Remo with trophies and prizes. Check here for more information.
One of the longest-running charity walks in Southern Spain, the Cudeca Walkathon is held on the picturesque seafront promenade in Benalmádena in spring. It raises funds for CUDECA, a local Southern Spain palliative care hospice. The event usually offers two walking routes of 10 km and 5 km, with live music and activities for children at the finish line. Keep an eye on the CUDECA website for more information.
Almost festival-style, this big Spanish walking event takes place on several routes in Marbella’s city, coastal and countryside areas. You can choose daily distances of 10 km, 20 km or 30 km, and attend just one day, or all four. Each evening, there are parties with live music in the “walking village” set up at Plaza del Mar. Find out more here.
This festive year-end charity event takes place on Rincón de la Victoria’s seafront. As mentioned above, the Rincón team took part in the last event! The 5 km “Carrera Popular” is open to anyone, while the 500-metre “Kilómetro Solidario” walk is ideal for all ages and abilities. The day combines sport with a good cause, the Spanish Association Against Cancer. Get more information here.
Top running & walking events in Malaga and the Costa del Sol continue to grow every year. You can find updated event calendars and listings on these websites:
If you’re taking part in a marathon or trail run in Southern Spain, it’s important to find the right place to stay. Ideally, your accommodation should make your race day easier, especially if you’re travelling from abroad or coming with a group. We know from experience that many runners and walkers prefer quieter bases, where it’s easy to train, rest and recover.
Here are some good options for you:
Remember: staying in the right place will mean better sleep, more space, and balancing your running or walking event with a relaxed holiday by the sea.
Maybe you’re currently training for a marathon? Or planning a family holiday in Spain and fancy joining a scenic walk? Either way, there are many reasons to stay active on the Costa del Sol while enjoying the sunshine. We hope you found something inspiring in our guide to top running and walking events in Malaga and the Costa del Sol – and the perfect place to stay while you’re here.
Top running and walking events in Malaga attract visitors from all over Spain and Europe every year. While serious runners come here for big events like the Malaga Marathon, the Costa del Sol also offers lots of fun charity runs and local walking events that anyone can take part in. Think sea air, sunshine, palm-lined […]
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