Florida gets a reputation as a summer survival test, and honestly, it earns it. But here's the good news: the best half marathons in Florida don't happen in July. They happen in late fall and early winter, when the humidity finally loosens its grip, the mornings come in around comfortable, and a 13.1-mile tour of the state actually sounds like a treat instead of a dare.
So if you're mapping out your next few months, this is the window to plan for. There are 19 upcoming half marathons on the Florida calendar right now, and the four below spread nicely from October through December — one in Orlando, one in Cocoa, one in Gainesville, and one in Mount Dora. Different vibes, different towns, all worth a look. Register early: fall and winter races in Florida fill up, and a few of these are the kind people circle a year ahead.
Space Coast Marathon & Half Marathon — Sunday, November 22, 2026 — Cocoa
This is the one people whisper about like it's a secret, except the secret is out. Space Coast earns a score of 92 out of 100, the strongest in this bunch, and it's easy to see why runners keep coming back. Cocoa sits right on the water, so you get a flat, fast, breezy course that feels more like a coastal road trip than a race. Late November in Florida is about as kind as the weather gets. If you've been chasing a personal best or you just want a finish line with a view, put this one at the top of your list.
Tom Walker Half Marathon & 5k — Sunday, November 8, 2026 — Gainesville
A solid score of 83 out of 100, and a race that slots perfectly into the middle of your fall season. Gainesville brings college-town energy — good food, easy parking, a walkable downtown for the post-race pancake mission. Two weeks out from Space Coast, it's also a smart tune-up if you're running both, or a great standalone goal if you want something early enough to enjoy the rest of November. The 5K option makes it an easy one to bring a friend or family member along for.
2026 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend — Friday, October 23, 2026 — Orlando
Yes, it's a Friday race, and yes, that's part of the fun. Disney Wine & Dine scores 83 out of 100 and lands in Orlando in late October, which makes it the earliest of this group and the best excuse on this list to turn a half marathon into a long weekend. It's a race lots of first-timers choose for their first 13.1 — big, friendly, well-supported, and genuinely memorable. If you've been waiting for a sign to commit, this is it. October is closer than it feels.
Mount Dora Half Marathon & 5K — Saturday, December 19, 2026 — Mount Dora
Closing out the season with a score of 89 out of 100, Mount Dora is the December reward. This little lake town outside Orlando goes full holiday mode in mid-December, and the race fits right in — charming streets, a festive feel, and weather that finally feels like running weather. It's a Saturday race, which means you can stay over, wander the shops, eat too much, and drive home Sunday without burning a vacation day. A lovely way to end the year.
Which one fits your season?
If you're new to the distance, Wine & Dine is the most forgiving entry point. If you want a fast, flat, scenic shot at a big day, Space Coast is your race. Tom Walker is the perfect fall bridge, and Mount Dora is the December celebration.
Whichever you pick, don't wait. Florida's fall and winter races are the ones people plan around, and the good ones go early. Head over to our full half marathons in Florida directory to see all 19 upcoming races, filter by what matters to you, and find the one that fits your calendar and your goals. From your first 13.1 to your fiftieth state, we're in it with you.