Run by the Sea

  • Date Sun 4th October 2026
  • Time 8:00AM PDT
  • Location Santa Cruz, California
  • Price $48.70 - $69.90
  • Races 3 races
  • Distances Half Marathon

Event summary

Join us for the exhilarating Run by the Sea on Sunday, October 4th, 2026, at the stunning Wilder Ranch State Park in Santa Cruz, California! This annual event, now in its 101st year, features a unique lineup of races, including a picturesque Half Marathon, a challenging 12K run, and a family-friendly 4K run/walk. Participants will traverse the beautiful coastal bluffs along the Central Coast, enjoying mostly flat, packed dirt trails that showcase breathtaking views of the Monterey Bay.

As you run or walk through the enchanting landscapes of Wilder Ranch, keep an eye out for playful dolphins and take in the serene meadows that make this event truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a casual walker, Run by the Sea offers an unforgettable experience for everyone. Plus, your participation supports local initiatives, benefiting the Santa Cruz Track Club's youth program, Bike Santa Cruz County, and the Santa Cruz Mountain Trail Stewards. Don't miss out on this fantastic day of health, community, and natural beauty!

Organiser's Description

Run by the Sea returns to lovely Wilder Ranch State Park on Sunday, October 4th! This unique Half Marathon, 12K run, and 4K run/walk meanders along the gorgeous coastal bluffs of California's Central Coast in Santa Cruz and consists mostly of flat, packed dirt trails. Participants will enjoy scenic coastal views while passing along the bluffs and Wilder Ranch park trails. Get ready to take in the natural beauty of the Monterey Bay, the serene flats of Wilder Ranch's meadows, and maybe even catch a glimpse of some dolphins - no other race is quite like it!

Now in its 101h year, Run by the Sea is organized by the Santa Cruz Track Club and benefits the track club's youth program, Bike Santa Cruz County, and Santa Cruz Mountain Trail Stewards.

RACE HEADQUARTERS AND PARKING



[Image]

4K Route

[Image]

12K Route
[Image]

Half Marathon Route

Races

  • Run by the Sea 4k

    Incl. $3.70 Fee & T-Shirt

    Sun 4th October 2026 (8:30AM PDT)

    $48.70

    OPENS 20 FEB 26
  • Run by the Sea 12k

    Incl. $4.30 Fee & T-Shirt

    Sun 4th October 2026 (8:15AM PDT)

    $59.30

    OPENS 20 FEB 26
  • Run by the Sea Half Marathon

    Incl. $4.90 Fee & T-Shirt

    Sun 4th October 2026 (8:00AM PDT)

    $69.90

    OPENS 20 FEB 26

Reviews

Done this event?

First-hand event reviews from people who have been there, done that and got the breathable T-shirt, really help everyone choose their next event.

Add a review

Location

Wilder Ranch State Park, Santa Cruz, 95060, CA, United States

Who's In

See who else is doing this event

Be the first

No-one has marked this event as 'Doing' or 'Maybe' yet. Will you be the first?

More from findarace.com

You might like