Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and active families looking for their next challenge have a compelling destination: Florida's Historic Coast. The region is gearing up for a packed calendar of sporting events throughout the winter and spring of 2026, offering everything from foot races and cycling tours to sailing competitions and unique outdoor adventures.
Hit the Ground Running: Scenic Races for Every Runner
The running season kicks off with a beloved tradition. The Matanzas 5K & Fun Run returns for its 46th year on January 24, guiding participants through the picturesque streets of Historic Downtown St. Augustine. The season continues with themed and charitable runs, including the Totally Awesome 80s 5K in Nocatee on February 8 and the Lighthouse 5K through Lighthouse Park on February 21.
March brings the unique Raptor Run 3K on March 1, hosted by the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, with proceeds supporting local conservation. For those seeking a challenge with elevation, the Vilano Bridge Run 5K & 10K on March 28 utilizes the bridge connecting Uptown St. Augustine to Vilano Beach. April is a big month for charity runs, featuring the Run for Peace 5K on April 4, the Race to the Taste 5k on April 12 (followed by a food festival), the Whitney Lab 5K on April 19, and the St. Augustine K9s United 5K and 9K on April 25.
Cycling, Sailing, and Multi-Sport Adventures
Cyclists can experience the stunning A1A Scenic Byway at the 14th Annual Spoonbills and Sprockets Cycling Tour on February 14, with routes from Palm Coast to St. Augustine Beach. Water sports enthusiasts have ample opportunity to explore the area's 42 miles of beachfront and inland waterways. Anastasia Watersports hosts monthly Full Moon Guided Kayak Tours, while sunset kayaking in the Nocatee Preserve is offered on February 13-14.
Sailors should mark their calendars for St. Augustine Race Week, running from April 11 to 18, which promises eight days of competitive sailing events. For the ultimate endurance test, the Game On! Ponte Vedra Triathlon on May 3 offers Olympic and Sprint distance triathlons, duathlons, and aquabike races.
Unique Events and Post-Race Recovery
The sporting lineup also includes unique offerings like the monthly Drum Runner Series Barrel Racing at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds, where riders compete in timed speed horse events throughout the year.
After crossing the finish line, visitors can relax and recharge. Florida's Historic Coast offers numerous spas for recovery, a diverse culinary scene ranging from international flavors to vegan cuisine, and a variety of other must-do experiences. Travelers are encouraged to use the official trip planner to coordinate activities and lodging for a complete active vacation.
Located midway between Daytona Beach and Jacksonville, Florida's Historic Coast encompasses historic St. Augustine, the seaside elegance of Ponte Vedra, the rural communities of Hastings, Elkton, and St. Johns, and those 42 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches. For more information, prospective visitors can contact the Visitors and Convention Bureau at 1-800-653-2489 or visit www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com.
