Ocean Running Club's Seaside Half Marathon and 5K

Welcome to the 49th Seaside Half Marathon and 5K!!  

The Seaside Half Marathon and 5K, hosted by the Ocean Running Club, is a premier running event that captures the essence of the Jersey Shore’s iconic beauty and vibrant energy. Held annually in Seaside Heights, New Jersey, this race offers participants the perfect blend of scenic oceanfront views, flat terrain, and a community-driven atmosphere.

Runners in the half marathon are treated to a breathtaking course that weaves through the boardwalk and surrounding areas, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the bustling seaside town. The 5K, ideal for runners and walkers alike, provides a shorter but equally picturesque route, making it perfect for participants of all levels.

Beyond the race itself, the Seaside Half Marathon and 5K are a celebration of fitness, camaraderie, and the unique charm of Seaside Heights. The Ocean Running Club’s dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive running community shines through, from the cheerful volunteers to the enthusiastic spectators lining the course.

Whether you’re chasing a new personal record, running for the joy of it, or taking in the coastal sights, this event is an unforgettable experience. Join us for the Seaside Half Marathon and 5K, and become a part of a cherished tradition that embodies the heart and soul of the Jersey Shore.

General Race Information:

• Race options include Half Marathon, 5K, and Seaside Challenge (Run the 5K and the Half Marathon races back-to-back!)
• The Half Marathon will have pacers.  No personal or pirate pacers are allowed.
• If you are paid member of Ocean Running Club prior to registering, you will receive $5.00 off of your selected race.
• Ocean Running Club race bundle - Sign up for the Seaside Half Marathon/5K  and the Pine Beach 5K as a bundle and save 15%!
• Races are Rain or Shine!
• Long sleeve shirts guaranteed for all participants that register by 9/5/2026.  After this date shirts will be given while supplies last, no guarantee.
• All races begin at the Sawmill Café, 1807 Boardwalk, Seaside Park, NJ 08752.
• Bib pick up on race morning only starting at 6:30am at the Sawmill Café (Boardwalk entrance).
• Parking meters ARE in effect on race day.
• Refer 5 friends and get a $10 refund!!  When you register, your confirmation email will have a custom link for you to share with your friends.  When 5 friends use your link and sign up for the race you automatically get a $10 refund.  Share the fun and save some cash!

5K Race Information:

• Start time: 7:30am
• Time limit: 45 minutes
• IMPORTANT: 300 runner maximum capacity for this event.  Registration closes when the maximum capacity is reached.
• Medal for all finishers!
• Awards for top 3 overall male and female finishers and top 3 male/female finishers under 14, 15-19, and 10 year age groups up to 70 and over.

Half Marathon Race Information:

• Start time: 8:30am
• Time limit: 3 hours - ***First loop of the course must be completed in 1.5 hours (by 10am) or runner will be pulled at the end of the first loop***
• IMPORTANT: 600 runner maximum capacity for this event.  Registration closes when the maximum capacity is reached.  
• Medal for all finishers!
• Awards for top 3 overall male and female finishers and top 3 male/female finishers under 14, 15-19, and 10 year age groups up to 70 and over.

Seaside Challenge Information:

• Runners are welcome to take the Seaside Challenge and run the 5K and the Half Marathon races back-to-back!
• Time limits for each race distance applies
• IMPORTANT:  You must register for the Seaside Challenge event at the time of registration.  You cannot combine individual 5K and half marathon entries to count for the Seaside Challenge.  If you register for the 5K and the half marathon separately, you will NOT be in the Seaside Challenge
• IMPORTANT: 150 runner maximum capacity for this event.  Registration closes when the maximum capacity is reached.
• THREE Medals for all Seaside Challenge finishers – 5K, Half Marathon, and a special Seaside Challenge finisher medal!
• Awards not given for the Seaside Challenge.  Those who participate in the challenge are eligible for awards given in each individual race.