Daufuskie Island Marathon

The Daufuskie Island Marathon is held on Daufuskie Island, located off the coast of southern South Carolina between Hilton Head Island and Savannah. This area is characterized by natural scenery such as beaches, live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and sparsely populated surroundings, with roughly 400 full-time residents. The island is only accessible by ferry, which participants must arrange in advance to reach the race venue.
The marathon course features a USATF-certified 13.1-mile loop, primarily on paved roads (about 90% of the route), with the remainder on gravel and dirt paths. Marathon participants complete the loop twice, while ultramarathoners may traverse it three times or more depending on the event. The maximum elevation reaches approximately 40 feet, making the course predominantly flat and suitable for runners seeking personal bests or Boston Marathon qualifying times. This characteristic makes the event accessible for both experienced runners and those attempting a marathon for the first time.
The setting offers views of pristine, uncrowded beaches and abundant wildlife, with the area home to species such as deer, foxes, armadillos, wild turkeys, and even the endangered Marsh Tacky horses. The island is also an important nesting site for loggerhead turtles. The race route includes notable locations such as Haig Point and Church Rd, and at some segments the course runs along the beach.
Race support includes a medical tent at the finish area and amenities like food, coffee, and warming lamps at the start. After the event, runners receive a finisher’s medal marathon and ultramarathon finishers may also be awarded buckles and can opt for custom engraving by a local artist. The post-race luncheon and entertainment are standard features for participants.
Time limits for completion are generous; marathoners have up to eight hours to finish, and ultramarathoners can have even longer depending on the event’s distance.
Notable facts about the marathon include its position as a Boston Marathon qualifier, its relatively flat course profile, and its setting in a remote and historically preserved island environment, making travel logistics distinctive due to ferry-only access.

Statistics
| Elevation | ||
|---|---|---|
| Elevation Gain | 84 m | 276 ft |
| Elevation Low | 0 m | 0 ft |
| Elevation High | 12 m | 39 ft |
| Weather | ||
| Expected Temperature (Low) | 3°C | 37°F |
| Expected Temperature (High) | 13°C | 55°F |
| Chance of Rain | 1% | |
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