Santa Cruz Westside Half Marathon, 10K & 5K

Santa Cruz

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Pacific, the Santa Cruz Westside Half Marathon offers a flat and fast route ideal for runners of all levels. Organized by RunSantaCruz, the event features half marathon, 10K, and 5K distances—all beginning and ending at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The half marathon launches at 8:00 AM, guiding runners north along West Cliff Drive with expansive coastal views, bluff-top panoramas at Wilder Ranch State Park, and a finish on Cowell’s Beach. Each loop passes the Santa Cruz Lighthouse and subject runners to a steady but manageable ocean breeze. Aid stations spaced roughly every 2 miles provide water and electrolyte fluids, and restrooms are available at key points including the turnaround and finish line. Packet pickup takes place at Sports Basement Campbell and REI Santa Cruz, with race-day bib pickup from 7:00–8:00 AM. Both the 10K and 5K start alongside the half course, typically following immediately after at the same location. Finishers