The Manly Fun Run returns on Sunday 19 April 2026 with a number of updates designed to make the event even more enjoyable for participants and to continue strong support for local charities.
This year’s Manly Fun Run is set to be even more fun – it introduces a Kids’ Obstacle Course, plus more on‑course entertainment, and a full cashback option for charity teams.
Taking place on Sunday, April 19 2026, this much-loved community event is family friendly with a 2km Fun Run and Walk and a 5km Fun Run and Walk, plus there’s the 10km Runners Challenge.
New Kids’ Obstacle Course
A new obstacle course for children will be run by the Manly Surf Life Saving Club, with activities led by Nipper Age Group Managers. Children already registered for the 2km or 5km events can take part at no extra cost, and additional registrations are welcome.
Following your feedback, the new and improved 2km fun run & walk is designed with an added challenge in store! Taking in scenic ocean views followed by a short sharp hill half way through to get your heart pumping and heading through suburban Manly, this is more than a beach run!
The 5km and 10km routes are as follows:
“A challenging and scenic 5km run or walk: The Fun Run & Walk route is no ‘Park Run’, with two sharp hills, and stairs to bring in some spectacular scenery. Total ascent is 87 meters. You’ll start on Manly’s ocean side heading towards the Manly Life Saving Club, before taking Marine Parade to Fairy Bower, a few hill climbs and stairs into and through ICMS grounds, a loop through the Harbour Trust land with a long down hill along Darley road, Addison and back to the start line along Marine Parade.
There are a few hill climbs and stairs to get the heart pumping, but don’t worry, you do get to come back down!”
“The 10km route is the ultimate tour of Manly’s beautiful scenery. Similar to the 5km route, with and additional 5 km through Manly’s North Head. Total ascent is 154 meters. You’ll start on Manly’s ocean side heading towards Manly Life Saving Club, before taking Marine Parade to Fairy Bower and a few hill climbs and stairs into and through the ICMS grounds. Here the 10km route will take you through the beautiful bush in the Manly North Head National Park, through the Harbour Trust land mainly on sealed paths / roads to the Bella Vista Cafe, returning via North Head Scenic Drive with a short loop through Q Station. Following down Darley road, right on Addison and back to the start line along Marine Parade. Unfortunately not suitable for prams nor wheelchairs. A 2 hour 15 minute cut off time will be enforced as we need to reopen the roads, but this shouldn’t be an issue for a fast walker!”
Other new additions for 2026 include DJs, branded water stations, and energy drink activations to support runners and add to the atmosphere on the day.
Your entry fees goes direct to the Rotary Club of Manly who organise the whole event. “We’re a group of volunteers who ensure that every cent we raise goes to charitable causes. Since the first run Manly Fun Run & Walk in 201o, Rotary have raised over $2.25m for local charities.”
Charity teams will also receive 100% cashback on their registration fees, ensuring all funds raised through registrations go directly back to the organisations they represent.
All participants receive a Manly Fun Run finisher medal, and the top fundraiser wins a night at the Manly Pacific, including breakfast for two and parking.
