On Sunday morning, February 1, nearly 20,000 runners will line up along Pacific Coast Highway as the Surf City Marathon returns to Huntington Beach for its 30th anniversary. One of Orange County’s most established endurance events, the race has already sold out both its full marathon (26.2 miles) and half marathon (13.1 miles), confirming its continued pull among local and international runners.
The event unfolds along the coastline of Huntington Beach, delivering a fast, flat course with uninterrupted ocean views—a combination that has defined the race for three decades. While the longer distances are at capacity, registration remains open for the 5K and the Beach Mile, offering accessible entry points for runners and spectators looking to be part of the milestone weekend.
This year’s anniversary leans into the city’s surf roots. Among the local honorees is Peter Townend, the first IPS/ASP World Surfing Champion, recognized for his influence on global surf culture and his connection to Surf City USA. Legacy runners are also front and center, with nearly 1,900 participants returning through the event’s Longboard Legacy Program—an initiative rewarding athletes who have completed the Surf City Marathon or Half Marathon for three or more consecutive years.
Produced by Motiv Sports, the race continues to build a weekend-long experience around the run itself. Presenting sponsor Biofreeze will once again deploy its Cooling Crew along the course, misting runners with Biofreeze Pain Relief Spray and providing samples throughout race weekend. At the finish line, TruMoo chocolate milk returns as a post-race staple, while Sports Basement and compression brand 2XU support runners with gear and on-site services.
Three decades in, the Surf City Marathon remains closely tied to place—wide roads, winter coastal weather, and a community that shows up year after year. For those who missed out on the sold-out distances, the remaining races still offer a front-row seat to one of Southern California’s most enduring run days.
For More Information and to Sign Up Visit runsurfcity.com
Event:Â Surf City Marathon presented by Biofreeze
Date:Â Sunday, February 1, 2026
Start Time:Â Morning (rolling race starts by distance)
Location:Â Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA
Available Distances:Â 5K, Beach Mile (Marathon & Half Marathon sold out)
Photo credits: Photos courtesy of Run Surf City
