Santa Cruz to Host Inaugural Marathon on Sunday
The sold-out 26.2-mile race begins at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Running
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Santa Cruz will hold its inaugural marathon on Sunday, October 26, 2026. The sold-out event begins at 7 a.m. near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Why it matters
The race brings a new long-distance sporting event to the region with a course that showcases local landmarks. Its debut marks a significant addition to the city's annual calendar of athletic gatherings.
The marathon course spans 26.2 miles in total. The event is currently sold out, though organizers have established a waitlist for next year's race.
The details
The race route travels along the coast toward Capitola and out to Wilder Ranch State Park, with turnaround points located at 41st Avenue and the park. Packet pickup and an accompanying expo are hosted at the Civic Auditorium ahead of the Sunday start.
Timeline
The marathon begins at 7 a.m. on October 26, 2026.
Traffic delays are expected along the race route on October 26, 2026, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Season Trajectory
This inaugural event establishes a new fixture in the regional sports landscape, following the standard 26.2-mile marathon distance recognized by World Athletics. It sets the baseline for future race participation and tourism interest in the Santa Cruz area.
Residents should anticipate significant traffic delays along the race route between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Commuters should plan alternative routes to avoid road closures near the beach and park areas.
The takeaway
The race route features significant coastal stretches, making it a scenic debut for long-distance runners in the city. Spectators and commuters should verify local road closure maps to navigate the area effectively during the morning and afternoon hours.
Further reading
Learn more about local race events in the Running section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KSBW.
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