Carlsbad Marathon, Half Marathon, 5k and Double Down Challenge

The out-and-back, two-loop marathon course is gently rolling, with over 18 miles of it along the beautiful Pacific Ocean. The race starts at the Shoppes at Carlsbad.  It begins by passing the Buena Vista Lagoon in the early miles, setting the event’s naturalistic tone.  The course and surroundings soon pick up the beat as participants make their way through spectator-packed Carlsbad Village, a quaint but popular mix of restaurants, shops and hotels.  Mile three exposes stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, providing an inspiring sight and gorgeous backdrop as rolling hills carry runners and walkers past sandy beaches and rolling surf.  Participants turn around at La Costa Avenue and head back north to Mountain View Road where they turn around and head south for their second loop. At Breakwater Road, runners turn around and head north back up the coast to the finish line.

The half marathon course is gently rolling with over 8 miles of it along the beautiful Pacific Ocean. It starts at the same location as the marathon; however, the races have different start times. After the starter’s gun goes off, half marathoners will pass the Buena Vista Lagoon as they head out to Carlsbad Boulevard (Highway 101) and along the ocean to the turnaround point at Breakwater Road and back to the finish line. The out-and-back course is gently rolling, with no major elevation changes and enjoys almost 8 miles of unobstructed ocean views. Run this course and you will see why some of the fastest half marathon times in the U.S. are run here.

The Surf Sun Run 5K features an out and back course that passes by the beautiful Buena Vista Lagoon and starts and finishes at The Shoppes at Carlsbad, the same location as the Carlsbad full and half marathon.

The Double Down Challenge is a chance for runners to push themselves at two races in this event. Participants tart with the 5k and continue with the Half Marathon for the chance to win 3 medals at this event. Just pick the Double Down option in the tickets menu to be entered into both races.