Bangsaen42 Chonburi Marathon

Bangsaen Marathon 2026 (Bangsaen42 Chonburi Marathon) is one of the largest running events in Southeast Asia with the World Athletics Elite Label. Every year, thousands of runners gather on the coast of Bangsaen in Chonburi Province; according to the organizers, more than 12,000 people take part.

Information current as of March 2026. Registration terms and costs may change, so we recommend checking the official Bangsaen Marathon website.

If you are planning a trip to the area of Pattaya and love running — this race is definitely worth a look. Bangsaen is about 40 minutes by car from Pattaya.

What kind of event is this?

Bangsaen42 Chonburi Marathon is not just a city race but an event with a serious international reputation. It is organized by Burapha University, located right on the Bangsaen coast. The first marathon here took place in the early 1980s, and since then it has grown into a large-scale sporting festival.

The key thing that sets this marathon apart from dozens of other Asian races is the World Athletics Elite Label. It is a quality mark from the global athletics federation: a certified course, professional timing, and elite international runners on the start lists.

The number “42” in the name refers to the classic marathon distance of 42.195 km. But the program usually includes other distances too: half marathon, 10 km, fun run. So both well-prepared marathoners and those who simply want to run their first kilometers by the sea can take part. 🏃

By the way, Bangsaen is not the most promoted resort among Russian-speaking tourists. Thais, however, consider it one of their favorite beach destinations for weekends, especially residents of Bangkok.

When and where it takes place

The date is November 15, 2026 (Sunday). The marathon takes place every year, usually in the second half of November. The exact date may shift slightly; organizers announce it several months in advance on bangsaen42.com.

The venue is Bangsaen Beach and the surrounding streets in the city of Saensuk, Chonburi Province. The start and finish are on the grounds of Burapha University. The course runs along the coast, making it one of the most scenic in Thailand.

The start time is 2:00 AM for the full marathon. An early start is common practice for tropical races: runners cover the main distance before the heat sets in. The half marathon and shorter distances start later, closer to dawn.

Chonburi Province is on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 100 km from Bangkok and 40 km from Pattaya. Getting there is easy; more on this in the practical tips section.

Traditions and celebrations

Bangsaen42 is not only about running. A whole festival has grown up around the marathon. The day or two before the start, there is usually an Expo — a sports goods fair where participants collect their race packs and can also look at gear or try sports nutrition.

The atmosphere on the night of the start is special. Thousands of people with headlamps line up at the start line, the countdown begins, and the runners head off into the night along the sea. Spectators and volunteers cheer the runners along the entire course: music, drums, and shouts of “สู้ สู้!” (“Come on, come on!”).

At the finish — medals, certificates, and a mandatory photo in front of the arch. For many Thai runners, Bangsaen is a “home” marathon, something like an annual tradition. Families come to cheer, and children take part in the short races.

By the way, November in Chonburi marks the start of the cool season. Nighttime temperatures drop to 24–26 °C, which by Thai standards counts as comfortable running weather. Humidity is still high, but without the daytime heat, running is much easier.

After the finish, many participants stay on beaches near Pattaya, turning the sports weekend into a mini vacation.

Practical tips for tourists

Registration. The cost of a race slot — ~800–1 800 ฿ depends on the distance and the registration period. Early registration is usually cheaper. Everything is arranged through bangsaen42.com. Registration closes well before the start, and popular distances can sell out within a few weeks.

How to get there. From Bangkok, take the Bangkok-Chonburi Motorway (Route 7); the trip takes about 1.5 hours. From Pattaya, take Sukhumvit (Route 3), about 40 minutes. Public transport to Bangsaen runs irregularly, so it is better to rent a car or take a taxi. If you haven’t yet sorted out the transport in Pattaya — check out our guide.

What to bring:

1. A headlamp — the start is in the dark, and you can’t do without one
2. Lightweight running clothes made of moisture-wicking fabric
3. Anti-chafing product (petroleum jelly, bodyglide)
4. A passport or a copy — you may be asked for it when collecting your race pack
5. Cash and a card — there is food at the Expo and in the finish area

An important note: humidity in Chonburi is high even at night. Drink more water at the aid stations and don’t ignore electrolytes. If you are running the full marathon — pace yourself for the second half, when the sun starts to rise.