Santa Cruz Marathon
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Santa Cruz Marathon
The inaugural Santa Cruz Marathon takes place in Santa Cruz on Oct 25, 2026. The event offers multiple distances and emphasizes a coastal route that combines seaside streets, bluffs, and park trails. Marathon entries are listed as sold out with a waitlist available.
- Marathon
- Half marathon
- 5K
The course uses historic and local landmarks. It begins along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, continues south through seaside streets and Capitola Village, and returns toward Santa Cruz for a beachside finish. Marathon entrants continue north onto trails and ocean vistas at Wilder Ranch State Park, passing bluffs and surf spots.
The event highlights local character and environment, noting surf culture, redwoods, monarchs, and more than 100 years of regional history. Organizers list an exclusive inaugural 2026 medal described as never to be replicated and a unique performance race tee. Current listed prices show the half marathon reduced from $165 to $153 and the 5K reduced from $99 to $87. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
