Run by the Sea logo
running

Run by the Sea

Date
October 4, 2026
Distance
Run by the Sea 4k · Run by the Sea 12k · Run by the Sea Half Marathon

From the Organizer

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 10th 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 
 
 

Distances & Pricing

Run by the Sea 4k8:30 AMRegister →
Run by the Sea 12k8:15 AMRegister →
Run by the Sea Half Marathon8 AMRegister →

Race Location

About This Sport

From Endurance Grid's Founder

Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.

With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.

Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.

Running

From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Run by the Sea?
Run by the Sea is a running event held in Santa Cruz, CA. Learn more about the different endurance sports here.
When and where is the Run by the Sea?
Sunday, October 4, 2026 in Santa Cruz, CA at Wilder Ranch State Park, Santa Cruz, CA. Check the official event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
How do I register for the Run by the Sea?
Registration is handled through their official registration page. Confirm pricing, distances available, and sign up there.

Run by the Sea

Oct 4, 2026

Register →