Come experience one of the most scenic events in California, “Run Long Beach”. Starting in Downtown Long Beach, runners head towards the historic Queen Mary and then through Shoreline Village. After running next to the Pacific Ocean on the flat beach path, half marathoners will continue down Ocean Boulevard while full marathoners veer right and head through Belmont Shore toward Marine Stadium. Cheerleaders, sororities, fraternities, clubs, student organizations, faculty, and the school mascot Prospector Pete come out full-force to cheer as runners complete a 5K loop around the California State University, Long Beach campus. With 6.2 miles to go, runners head back towards Ocean Boulevard for a fast finish and Finish Line Festival celebration. Combined with spectacular oceanfront views and a variety of settings including metropolitan Downtown Long Beach and the seaside community of Belmont Shore, the flat course makes the Long Beach Half Marathon one of the best. The Long Beach race course combines spectacular oceanfront views, charming seaside communities, and the metropolitan feel at the start and finish. The highest elevation on the course is 45 feet. Starting on Shoreline Drive, the half marathon course passes the new Pike at Shoreline Village, crosses the Queensway Bridge and runs to the bow of the Queen Mary, circles back around the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Lighthouse at Rainbow Harbor, then back by Shoreline Village before heading down the beautiful beach path. You’ll close out your race running above the ocean along the bluff before closing out downhill into a cheering final straight of fans. Conquer the Beach Cities Challenge by completing any combination of full or half marathons at the Long Beach Marathon and Half Marathon, Surf City Marathon, and the SDCCU OC Marathon. Run all three in a row and receive a fabulous Beach Cities Challenge Medal!