Athletes and families are set to participate in a variety of sporting events on Florida’s Historic Coast during the winter and spring seasons of 2026. The region will host several running, biking, and water-based competitions aimed at different age groups and skill levels.
The Matanzas 5K & Fun Run will return for its 46th year on January 24, offering runners a course through historic downtown St. Augustine. Another event, the Raptor Run 3K, is scheduled for March 1 at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park and supports local conservation efforts. On April 12, participants can join the Race to the Taste 5k, followed by the Taste of St. Augustine food event.
Additional running events include:
– Run for Peace 5K on April 4
– Whitney Lab 5K on April 19
– St. Augustine K9s United 5K and 9K | Family Fun Run on April 25
– Lighthouse 5K & Fun Run on February 21 in Lighthouse Park
– Nocatee’s Totally Awesome 80s 5K & Fun Run on February 8
– Vilano Bridge Run 5K &10K/ on March 28
Water sports enthusiasts have options such as monthly Full Moon Guided Kayak Tours at Anastasia State Park and Sunset Kayaking at Nocatee Preserve from February 13–14. The area will also host St. Augustine Race Week from April 11–18 with eight days of sailing events.
Cycling fans can participate in the Spoonbills and Sprockets Cycling Tour along A1A Scenic Byway on February 14 or attend Ancient City BMX’s hosting of the Florida State Championship Races from February 20–22 in Vermont Heights. Multi-sport athletes may compete in the Game On! Ponte Vedra Triathlon series on May 3.
Equestrian activities are available as well, with monthly Drum Runner Series Barrel Racing events at St. Johns County Fairgrounds featuring barrel racing and pole bending.
Visitors are encouraged to explore local spas, restaurants, and other attractions after participating in or watching these sporting events. The Florida’s Historic Coast Trip Planner offers resources to help visitors organize their stay by selecting activities, dining options, and accommodations.
Florida’s Historic Coast is situated between Daytona Beach and Jacksonville and features locations like historic St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra Beach, Hastings, Elkton, St. Johns, and extensive Atlantic beaches spanning over forty miles. Visitor information centers provide travel assistance across multiple sites in the region; further details are available through www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com or by calling their toll-free number.
“Located midway between Daytona Beach and Jacksonville, Florida’s Historic Coast includes historic St. Augustine, the outstanding golf and seaside elegance of Ponte Vedra, the rural beauty of Hastings, Elkton, St. Johns, and forty-two miles of pristine Atlantic beaches,” according to information provided by regional officials.
