2026 Surf City Marathon

What distances are available for this event?

• →Marathon (26.2 miles)
• →Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
• →5K (3.1 miles)
• →Beach Mile (1 mile)

What is the terrain type for each distance?

• →Marathon: Primarily paved roads on Pacific Coast Highway with approximately 8 miles on a narrow (8-foot-wide) beachfront multi-use path adjacent to the ocean
• →Half Marathon: Fully paved road course on Pacific Coast Highway
• →5K: Flat coastal road course along Pacific Coast Highway
• →Beach Mile: Run directly on the sand of Huntington Beach shoreline

What is the course description for the marathon?

The race begins at 6:30 AM in the Huntington Beach Parking Lots and heads north on Pacific Coast Highway past the iconic Huntington Beach Pier. Runners then cut east through Huntington Central Park before returning toward the coast. The route continues north past the Bolsa Chica Ecological Preserve and Bolsa Chica State Beach, where runners make a U-turn and head south. After passing the pier again, runners transition onto the beachfront path for an ocean-adjacent stretch (watch for non-race pedestrians and cyclists on this public path), then U-turn once more for the final approach to the finish line near the pier.

What is the course description for the half marathon?

The half marathon starts at 7:15 AM heading north on Pacific Coast Highway past the Huntington Beach Pier with ocean views on the left. The route continues along the coast past the Bolsa Chica Ecological Preserve before making a U-turn and returning south toward the pier for an oceanfront finish. Entirely on closed roads with no shared multi-use path sections.

What is the elevation profile for the marathon and half marathon?

Both the marathon and half marathon feature a flat and fast course, contributing to the marathon's reputation as a Boston Marathon qualifier.

What is the time limit for the marathon and half marathon?

• →Marathon: 6 hours 30 minutes (14:53 min/mile pace required); finish line closes at 1:15 PM with three mandatory cut-off points at miles 4.4, 9.9, and 16.5
• →Half Marathon: 4 hours 30 minutes (20:36 min/mile pace required)

What is the age minimum for participants?

Participants must be at least 13 years old on race day.

What are the event highlights?

• →Award-winning course recognized as one of America's best marathon/half marathon routes
• →Boston Marathon qualifying event (marathon distance)
• →Scenic oceanfront running with views of surfers and coastal wildlife
• →29-year tradition celebrating Huntington Beach's surf culture

What is the registration status for the event?

The marathon and half marathon are sold out for 2026 general registration, with VIP entries available. The 5K and Beach Mile remain in the final release registration phase.

What is the expected weather for the event date?

On February 1, 2026, Huntington Beach is expected to have a high of 60°F with partly cloudy skies and light winds, creating favorable conditions for running.