
2026 - City to the Sea Half Marathon & 5K
City to the Sea Half: from Mission Plaza to Avila Beach, a stunning point-to-point.
Race Date
Oct 18, 2026
Location
San Luis Obispo, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, October 18, 2026
- Location
- San Luis Obispo, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Mixed
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The City to the Sea Half Marathon begins with sunrise at San Luis Obispo's historic Mission Plaza, sending nearly 1,900 runners on a point-to-point journey to the Pacific. Now in its 26th year, this USATF-certified course drops gently downhill (a net 2.74 m/km) through downtown landmarks, past vineyards, and along the Bob Jones Trail. Thirteen percent of runners are repeat participants, lured back by the promise of a PR and views that change from urban to coastal.
The finish line awaits at Avila Beach, a charming seaside village, where runners collect a finisher's medal and a custom t-shirt. A celebratory beer (for those 21+) and savory provisions for purchase turn the beach into a party. With a typical winning time around 68 minutes, the field is competitive, but the experience is welcoming—from the dawn start to the ocean breeze, City to the Sea delivers a singular Central Coast running experience.
Race-provided description
CUESTA COLLEGE'S - CITY TO THE SEA HALF MARATHON & 5K RUNNING WAREHOUSE - HALF MARATHON (13.1 MILES) Start with the sunrise at historic Mission Plaza for this one of a kind race. The City to the Sea Half Marathon, presented by Running Warehouse, is a breathtaking point-to-point race beginning in San Luis Obispo. The course guides runners past iconic local landmarks, through scenic country backroads, and along the picturesque Bob Jones Trail, culminating at the edge of the Pacific Ocean in the charming coastal community of Avila Beach. This beautiful course delivers a truly unique Central Coast experience - from the charm of downtown SLO to the relaxing vibes of the Pacific shoreline. Half Marathon Start Time: October 18th, 2026, 7:00AM Location: 989 Chorro Street, San Luis Obispo, Ca 93401 ¦ Mission Plaza The events top 100 men & women will take home a commemorative 2026 City to the Sea mug. All half marathon participants will receive a finisher’s medal and a custom event t-shirt to commemorate their accomplishment. After crossing the finish line, runners can enjoy savory provisions and beverages for purchase—cheers to those 21 and over—a celebratory beer on us! AVILA - SEASIDE 5K (3.1 MILES) Begin and end your run at the Pacific Ocean. The Avila-Seaside 5K is an out-and-back, with a loop, course with roughly 60% of the route showcasing breathtaking views of the beach, harbor, and "The Peaceful Sea". Keep a keen eye open for sea lions, otters and whales along the route. The course joins the scenic Bob Jones Trail before finishing at beautiful Avila Beach Resort. 5K Start Time: October 18th, 2026, 7:00AM Location: 6464 Ana Bay Rd, Avila Beach, CA 93424 ¦ Avila Beach Resort All 5K participants will receive a 2026 finisher’s medal and a custom t-shirt to commemorate their accomplishment. After crossing the finish line, runners can enjoy savory provisions and beverages for purchase—cheers to those 21 and over—a celebratory beer on us! More Information After crossing the finish line explore a vibrant selection of community vendors while taking in live music from a local band. You’ll have the option to purchase a variety of meal options from Mulligan’s, or venture into the charming coastal village of Avila Beach to bask in the sun, savor a wine tasting, or stroll the iconic Avila Beach Promenade and Pier. For half marathoners, buses will take you back to the start-line in San Luis Obispo. You may also arrange for your own private transportation if you prefer. Refund Policy Please note that entry fees are non-refundable and non-deferrable. However, we understand that unexpected circumstances can arise. You may transfer your registration with a fee. If you can't attend the event please let us know. We will add someone from our waitlist. Our goal is to provide flexible options while continuing to deliver a high-quality experience year after year. Questions? Please visit www.citytothesearun.com or email us at city2thesea@gmail.com
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
989 Chorro Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401
Course Info
Course Type
Point to Point
Terrain
mixed
Scenery
Coastal, Small Town
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Quality Score
Standout7125 years running
~1,411 finishers a year
growing or steady
13% returning runners
USATF certified · 5 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 1 state
winner 1:08:42
typical high 72°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
53°
Afternoon (High)
78°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.0"
Precipitation
8 mph
Wind
62%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 - City to the Sea Half Marathon & 5K?
The 2026 - City to the Sea Half Marathon & 5K is held on Sunday, October 18, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.
Where does the 2026 - City to the Sea Half Marathon & 5K take place?
It takes place in San Luis Obispo, California.
What distances does the 2026 - City to the Sea Half Marathon & 5K offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 - City to the Sea Half Marathon & 5K course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 - City to the Sea Half Marathon & 5K is a rolling hills, point to point course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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