Carlsbad Marathon
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Event overview
The Carlsbad Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, and Double Down Challenge take place on Sunday, January 18, 2026, with start and finish at The Shoppes at Carlsbad (2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA). The event offers in-person and virtual options for all distances.
Distances:
- 26.2 Miles
- 13.1 Miles
- 3.1 Miles
- 16.2 Miles (Double Down Challenge: 5K + Half Marathon)
Course, entries and race features
The full and half marathon courses run largely along historic Highway 101/Carlsbad Boulevard with extensive Pacific Ocean views on out-and-back routes. The 5K is an out-and-back course toward the village of Carlsbad along Buena Vista Lagoon. Courses are certified and the marathon is a Boston qualifying event. Time limits apply: marathon within six hours, half marathon within four hours, and 5K within one hour.
Registration includes race apparel and items such as a long-sleeve technical shirt, a premium 1/4-zip pullover, a finisher's medal, a reusable grocery bag, and a one-day pass to the Carlsbad Columbia Sportswear employee store. On-course support stations and entertainment are provided, and a Finish Line Festival features post-race refreshments and music. Team registration options and half marathon team scoring are available; teams must meet minimum size and gender requirements for official scoring. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
