Santa Cruz Marathon
Run Where Endurance Meets Attitude
Oct 25, 2026
Full Marathon | Half Marathon | 5K This isn’t just another California race. Rugged. Raw.
It’s a run on the edge. Untamed. From the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk to Capitola Village, Wilder Ranch State Park, and the city’s iconic coastal bluffs - you’ll shred miles through surf spots, seaside towns, and 100+ years of California history.
🏃 Distances: Marathon | Half Marathon | 5K
🔥 Why Run:
- A dynamic, scenic coastal course (not just a straight out-and-back)
- Authentic Santa C
06/22/2026
Thinking about running your first half marathon? 👀
Good news: you don't need to be fast, run every day, or have years of experience to get started.
Swipe through for our beginner's guide to half marathon training, then start picturing yourself running 13.1 miles along the Santa Cruz coastline. 🌊🏃
Register via the link in bio.
Winning together is always better than alone!
Register with a friend for Santa Cruz Marathon! Crush your goals and win together 🤝
Link in bio to register
06/18/2026
Salt in the air, nowhere to be, and somehow that’s enough 🌊
That is Santa Cruz
06/17/2026
Say hello to Meet the Run Club, a new series highlighting the local crews that make Santa Cruz running special.
First up:
What started in 2017 as three friends training for Wharf to Wharf has grown into one of Santa Cruz's most unique running communities. Inspired by the punk rock ethos of the local hardcore scene, Running Riot was built on three simple principles: maintain a positive mental attitude, support your fellow runners, and be a good person.
Now approaching 10 years strong, the club continues to embrace a grassroots, DIY spirit through events like the "U Con Do It" endurance challenge and the "Bark at the Moon" full moon run. With 6:00am weekday meetups, Running Riot creates space for runners balancing work, family, and everything in between.
"We are extremely stoked to participate in the inaugural edition of the Santa Cruz Marathon", said John Van Lanen, co-founder of Running Riot. "This is sure to be a marquee event for local runners and the route is nothing short of epic. If you weren't able to sign up this year, we recommend getting out there and cheering on the runners the day of. The first year of any race is special and you won't want to miss out on this one!"
We're proud to have Running Riot as part of the Santa Cruz running community. 🌊🏃
06/15/2026
Be honest, are you running for the time… or for the moment you get to say you did it?
06/13/2026
Good news: the Half Marathon and 5K are still open, and you can save up to $17 if you register before tonight's price increase.
Ocean views, fresh sea air, race-day energy, and a finish line worth showing up for.
Prices rise at 11:59pm PT. Link in bio to register!
06/12/2026
Raise your hand if you are excited to start and finish your race along this iconic boardwalk? 🙋♀️🙋♂️
06/11/2026
Not every run needs a playlist. Sometimes the waves are enough 🌊
Secure your spot and hear those ocean waves for yourself!
06/10/2026
Save before prices rise on June 13th at 11:59PM PT!
The Santa Cruz Marathon is in its fourth release and almost sold out. With just 250 entries remaining, runners are locking in their place on one of California’s most scenic race weekends.
The Half Marathon and 5K are still available, giving you the chance to experience the coastline, ocean views, and race-day atmosphere your way.
🔗 Register now via the link in bio
06/01/2026
One finish line. Two medal design options.
Cast your vote and help choose the medal you will be chasing on race day