Racing on Island Time: Nantucket’s Road Races
How to Register & Join in on the Fun
There’s something different about running on Nantucket. Maybe it’s the ocean breeze at your back, the early morning light, or the peace that comes from the island roads. Whether you’re training for your next marathon or just looking to sweat a little before brunch, these events offer a chance to move with purpose in a naturally beautiful setting.
Most of these road races are fundraisers for local non-profits. There are an incredible amount of talented local runners who show up to compete, and many visitors who come to the island just to race. Every race looks for volunteers. The team from Fisher Real Estate shows up to the the Nantucket Triathlon, Swim Across America, and the Nantucket Half Marathon to hand out water, gatorade and power gels.
Shamrock Run 5K & The Little Leprechaun Leap
Saturday March 15, 2025
Race Fee: Fundraiser for NISHA
This is a 4 miler around Miacomet to benefit NISHA, which ends at the Cisco Brewery. You can meet up with your fellow racers and furry friends at the finish! The Little Leprechaun Leap takes place at the beginning of the race and the kiddos love to join in on the fun.
Daffodil 5K
Sunday April 27, 2025
Race Fee: $30, Youth and ages 18 and under are $20
The Daffodil 5k is a spring favorite for many! Known for its charming course through Sconset, weaving along the bluff with stunning ocean views, this course is a USATF-certified course. Cash prizes are awarded to both male and female winners.
Runnin’ for a Cause, Not from the Cops 5K
Friday, May 16, 2026
Race Fee: $35
Join the Nantucket Police Charitable Association at their 5K Charity Race! This race is not just about fitness, but also about giving back to the island community. All funds raised will go directly to local initiatives, supporting the people of Nantucket. In the past, they have used funds raised to give graduating high school seniors and alumni scholarships, the annual Children’s Christmas Party, their Pink Patch project supporting the Marla Ceely Lamb fund, youth programs, and other local community based organizations. Whether you are a runner, walker, or volunteer, help them make this event a success.
Race for Open Space 5K, 10K and 2 Mile Walk
Saturday, June 28th, 2025
Race fee: $60
This off-road 5K/10K supports the Nantucket Conservation Foundation and highlights some of the island’s best-kept trails through Smooth Hummocks Coastal Preserve. The beautiful course loops around the cranberry bogs with a mix of grassy paths, soft sand, and plenty of elevation changes. Runners rave about the peacefulness of this race away from traffic, surrounded by birds, brush, and the sound of your feet hitting the trail.
Firecracker 5K
Friday, July 4, 2025
Race Fee: $50
This festive Fourth of July tradition starts and finishes at Jetties Beach, with a flat and fast out-and-back course that’s great for all ages. Expect a big crowd, typically more than 800 runners, with families, summer residents, and weekend warriors all showing up early for a holiday sweat. The race benefits the Nantucket Health Club’s youth programs, and all proceeds stay on the island. Helpful tip: park your bike at the top of Bathing Beach Road to avoid the traffic jam leaving the beach.
Nantucket Triathlon – Swim 450 Yards, Bike 13.5 Miles, Run 3.4 Miles – 10K Running Option
Saturday, July 19, 2025
Race Fee:$175 Individual, $225 for relay team 2 person, $275 for relay team 3 person
The Nantucket triathlon is a spirited race that supports the Nantucket community. Participants support the Henry Fee scholarship as well as contributions to the island’s beach programs through the Parks and Recreation Commission. This race includes a 450-yard swim at Jetties Beach, a 13.5-mile bike ride out to Madaket and back, and a 3.4-mile run.
Swim Across America – Nantucket Island Open Water Swim
Saturday, July 26, 2025
Race Fee: Individual fundraising minimum of $200.
While not a run, this annual ½-mile and 1-mile open water swim is a fixture of the island’s late-summer calendar. The course starts at Jetties Beach and loops through calm harbor waters with volunteer kayakers guiding the way. The event raises hundreds of thousands of dollars each year for Nantucket Cottage Hospital’s oncology care. It’s deeply meaningful and well-organized, drawing a committed mix of athletes, cancer survivors, and families honoring loved ones.
Run for Recovery for Addition Solutions 5K
Sunday, September 28, 2025
Race Fee: $60
A low-key but powerful event that supports Addiction Solutions of Nantucket. The race is held at Bartlett’s Farm at the end of September. While smaller in size (often under 200 participants), the energy is sincere and community-focused. If you’re looking to run for a cause that hits close to home for many islanders, this is one to mark on your calendar.
Nantucket Half Marathon
Sunday, October 12, 2025
Race Fee: $100 for half marathon, $85 for quarter marathon
You may not find a more scenic race in New England. The Nantucket Half showcases the island’s most scenic views, winding through peaceful bike paths, dirt roads, and beachy neighborhoods with sweeping views of Miacomet and Cisco Beaches. The challenging course includes packed sand and rolling stretches with very few spectators, which makes the experience feel both personal and grounded in nature. Runners typically range from local regulars to visitors who plan their fall trips around it. Registration usually opens midsummer and fills quickly. The race supports the Nantucket Triathlon Club and local youth fitness programs.
Not on Nantucket, but Popular Races for Nantucketers to Attend Off-Island in Cape Cod
Hyannis Marathon, Half marathon, 10k and Marathon team relay
Sunday, March 1, 2026
The Hyannis Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 K, and Marathon team relay offers runners a scenic course including historic landmarks such as the JFK Memorial, Craigville Beach, and Hyannis Harbor. The flat terrain and Boston qualifier certification make it a favorite for serious runners, while the variety of distances makes it an inclusive experience for all.
Falmouth Road Race
Sunday, August 17, 2025
The ASICS Falmouth Road Race returns this year for its 53rd year, offering runners a 7-mile course along the Cape Cod Coastline. The race supports local nonprofits and health initiatives through its Number for Nonprofits program. This program has raised over $71 million since 2000
Want to Run With Locals?
The Nantucket Run Centre posts group runs for all paces and levels. Check their website for meet-up times and locations, and simply sign a waiver to join. Whether you’re logging miles toward a bigger goal or just want company on your morning loop, it’s a great way to feel part of the local rhythm.
Kelsey Gund
Born and raised in Weston, Massachusetts, Kelsey has spent every summer on Nantucket and considers the island her second home. She’s currently a rising junior at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she studies Consumer Behavior and Marketing. When she’s not assisting with Fisher’s marketing, you’ll likely find her running along the bike paths, playing tennis, or trying new foods on the island.