SUMMARY. Picture this..."a start wreathed in light fog, led out by a covey of restored classic woody sedans and lifeguard vehicles," complete with surfboards on top! Marathon & Beyond Magazine calls it a "perfect start/finish." All races begin to the Beach Boys' soundtrack Surfin' USA and the cheers of local surfers from Huntington Beach's own surfing clubs. This exclusive oceanfront course is a classic California Dream! Run by the famous Huntington Beach pier and through scenic Huntington Central Park. Observe native surfers in their natural habitat from the beachfront running path that winds through the famed surfing beaches of Southern California. Retro surf bands entertain along the way and the Finish Line Festival includes a beach side beer garden and BBQ in the California sun. Finishers receive bodacious surfboard medals. Surf City, Here We Run!

The Surf City Marathon is well-regarded for its organization, scenic route, and community support, making it a must-do event for runners of all levels, is a celebration of California's beach culture, offering runners a scenic course along the Pacific Coast Highway in Huntington Beach. Starting near the southern corner of Huntington Street and PCH, the race provides stunning ocean views, making it a memorable experience for all participants. The marathon's flat and fast course is perfect for setting personal records, with just a few gentle inclines to keep things interesting.

The course takes runners north along PCH, offering strong crowd support in the initial miles. The route then heads inland through residential neighborhoods, providing a brief change of scenery before returning to the coastal highway. With Bolsa Chica State Beach and Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve on either side, the midsection of the race offers a unique experience of running between two bodies of water.

The event is known for its excellent aid stations, spaced at regular intervals and staffed by enthusiastic volunteers. The finish line rewards runners with a unique surf-themed medal and a variety of refreshments, including bananas, Dole fruit cups, and chocolate milk. The post-race festival by the beach is perfect for celebrating the achievement, complete with a beer garden sponsored by Michelob Ultra.

Surf City Marathon (prev. Pacific Shoreline Marathon)

Post-Race Review/ Results

Leonardo battles head wind and wins by comfortable margin

Robert Leonardo won Sunday's Pacific Shoreline Marathon in Huntington Beach, Calif., by a comfortable margin, crossing the tape in 2:32:54. It was Leonardo's first win, though he has been close, finishing second last year and third in 1999.

Marathon Summary

Marathon Results