According to organizers, the event attracts approximately 4,500 runners each year, even though registration numbers are often much higher, requiring limited participation slots. The route largely avoids urban areas, instead winding through forests and along the coast, highlighted by the Bixby Creek Bridge mid-course – an iconic landmark.

Runners participate in the Big Sur International Marathon. Photo: BSMF

On running forums, many runners state they participate in Big Sur not to achieve personal records but to "experience nature". In several sections, runners even "slow down just to gaze at the sea and listen to the waves", considering this a rare experience compared to traditional marathons.

Similarly, in Australia, the Gold Coast Marathon is one of the most popular nature-integrated marathon events. This race began in 1979. In 2025, the event attracted 39,000 runners from 50 countries.

The Gold Coast Marathon course runs along the Queensland coastline, offering flat terrain and expansive ocean views. Many international runners consider it a course where personal bests are achievable, yet it remains rich in experience due to its beautiful scenery, impressive when running for tens of kilometers alongside the ocean.

Many runners prioritize participating in races that offer a close connection to nature. The appeal of "forest-to-sea" runs stems from their ability to help participants feel a stronger connection to their bodies and the environment.

On routes with extensive green spaces, such as sections through forests or areas with many trees, canopies provide natural shade, reducing surface temperature. The quiet, low-noise environment also helps runners maintain focus during long distances. Meanwhile, coastal sections offer a different experience. The sea breeze cools the body, while wide views of the horizon create a sense of ease.

A study on the effects of outdoor running, published on PMC in mid-2025, indicates that natural environments can positively impact exercise experience, improving cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Fresh air, dense greenery, and beautiful scenery are factors that help maintain long-term motivation for training and competing.

The combination of these elements leads many marathon organizers to increasingly focus on scenery. Instead of just optimizing the course for performance, organizers aim to create an experience that combines competition with nature immersion.

For instance, in Vietnam, VnExpress Marathon consistently designs unique routes that showcase local characteristics, helping runners experience the rhythm of the destination while immersing themselves in nature. For example, the VM Nha Trang course largely follows Tran Phu street along the coast; VM Hue takes runners along the Perfume River.

Runners on Rung Sac Road, Can Gio. Photo: Quynh Tran

Soon, VnExpress Marathon will expand its nature-integrated running experience by choosing Can Gio as a destination. Prior to its administrative reorganization, Can Gio was the only district of TP HCM bordering the sea. This area combines 35,000 hectares of mangrove forest and 23 km of coastline in one space.

The VnExpress Marathon Green Paradise Can Gio will take place on 1/5, with a course designed as an "ecological tour", taking runners from the sea through the forest. According to organizers, the type of scenery in Can Gio is rare in Vietnam, with over 80% of the race course covered by nature.

"This is the highest percentage of green space among current VnExpress Marathon races", a representative of the race series stated.

The VnExpress Marathon Green Paradise Can Gio expects to host 5,000 runners. Organizers operate the race according to system standards, with a course ensuring safety and water stations approximately every 2 km.

Rung Sac Road in 3/2026. Photo: Kha Thien Loc

The Super Early Bird registration phase is open until 31/3. Ticket prices start at 330,000 VND for the 5 km distance; 450,000 VND for 10 km, 600,000 VND for 21 km, and 790,000 VND for the 42 km distance. After this phase, bib prices will gradually increase in subsequent phases.

According to organizers, all distances will start and finish in the coastal area within the Vinhomes Green Paradise project – a 2,870-hectare ecological township. This area offers an expansive, airy space, allowing runners to feel every sea breeze. After leaving the coastal area, runners will explore Can Gio's green routes like Duyen Hai and Rung Sac.

Interested runners can register here.

Hoai Phuong