2026 La Jolla Half Marathon and 5K

The 2026 La Jolla Half Marathon and 5K is scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, in San Diego, United States. Participants will begin at the Del Mar Fairgrounds and conclude at the scenic La Jolla Cove. The weather for this time of year in San Diego typically features mild to warm temperatures and clear skies, ideal for the coastal-to-cliff course that includes a significant climb through Torrey Pines. The event offers a 3.5-hour time limit for the half marathon and includes a post-race festival with recovery services such as massage, IV hydration, and cold plunge immersion.

What distances are available for this event?

• →Half Marathon starting at 6:30 AM
• →5K starting at 6:30 AM

Where does the event start and finish?

• →Start Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds (2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA)
• →Finish Location: La Jolla Cove (1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA)

What are the registration fees for the half marathon?

• →Current Price: $169.72 (includes service fees)
• →Regular Price: $190.88 (effective after February 28, 2026 at 11:59 PM PST)

What are the registration fees for the 5K?

• →Current Price: $74.50 (includes service fees)
• →Regular Price: $85.08 (effective after February 28, 2026 at 11:59 PM PST)

What is the course elevation profile?

• →Total Elevation Gain: 910 ft
• →Mile 3-5: Steady ascent (Torrey Pines climb)
• →Mile 7: Peak near Torrey Pines Golf Course
• →Mile 10-13.1: Scenic descent through La Jolla Shores

What is the time limit for the half marathon?

• →3.5 hours (approximately 16:03/mile pace)
• →Runners slower than 15:00/mile may experience a brief pause (~1-2 min) for an Amtrak crossing near Mile 2.9

What amenities are included at aid stations?

• →Water and electrolytes available at all 10 stations
• →Restrooms located at every station
• →First Aid Tent available at Mile 7

What recovery services are included in the post-race festival?

• →Sports massage and stretching
• →IV hydration therapy
• →Cupping
• →Cold plunge immersion
• →Medical tent and self-serve ice tent available near the finish

Are there specific safety rules for the course?

• →Runners must stay within coned lanes as most of the course is on open city streets
• →No support vehicles or crew access allowed inside Torrey Pines Reserve
• →Discarded clothing should only be dropped at aid stations for donation to local shelters

What time should participants arrive on race day?

• →Arrival Time: By 6:00 AM
• →Start Time: 6:30 AM (for both Half Marathon and 5K)

Is gear drop-off available?

• →Yes, gear drop-off is available at the start line only; items can be retrieved at the finish line.