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Long Beach Marathon
Race Details:
- Location: Long Beach, CA, USA
- Race Date: 10/11/2026
- Race Distances: Full Marathon, Half Marathon
What This Race Counts Toward:
Boston: Yes
World Marathon Majors: Yes
Long Beach Marathon Description
The Long Beach Marathon is a fast, flat, Boston qualifying race that hugs the Pacific coastline for most of its route through Southern California. Starting and finishing at Shoreline Marina, the course rolls through oceanfront neighborhoods with the ocean in view for long stretches before looping back downtown. A half marathon runs alongside, splitting off near mile 10 for its own finish. With minimal elevation change and a lively October race weekend, this is a favorite for PR-chasers and first-time marathoners alike along the SoCal coast.
Always check the official race website for the most accurate and up-to-date race information and logistics.
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Long Beach Marathon Additional Details:
Beyond the official aid stations, Long Beach locals turn parts of the course into their own impromptu refreshment stops, handing out fruit gummies, fresh fruit, Otter Pops, and, at a few enthusiastic tables, adult beverages for runners who want to celebrate a little early. Officially, water shows up at every stop with electrolyte drinks at eleven specific points and energy gels at three, well-organized enough that runners rarely have to think about hydration. Finishers who also complete the Orange County Marathon can earn a bonus Beach Cities Challenge medal, adding an extra goal for runners chasing more than one finish line. Back at Shoreline Marina, the Finish Line Festival keeps the energy going with food, drinks, and live entertainment long after the last corral has crossed.
Course Information
Profile: Mostly Flat
Type: Loop
Surface: Road/Pavement
Pace Groups: Yes
Time Limit: 7 hr 30 min
# of Finishers
Half Marathon: 8,000
Marathon: 2,500
Elevation Details
Elevation Gain: 470 ft (143 m)
Elevation Loss: 462 ft (141 m)
Average Temperature
- Low: 60°F
- High: 70°F
Train Smarter for Race Day
A great race starts long before the starting line. Whether you’re chasing your first finish or hunting a new PR, a structured training plan takes the guesswork out of race prep — building your fitness, your confidence, and your mileage at the right pace for you.
Explore plans for every distance and experience level, from your first 5K to your next ultra.
Things to Do in Long Beach, CA, USA
Make the most of race weekend — here’s how to fill the time before and after you cross the finish line.
Zoos, Aquariums & Gardens
Aquarium of the Pacific
See more than 11,000 animals across 500 species at the Aquarium of the Pacific, including the Shark Lagoon and Penguin Habitat — an easy, indoor, low-impact stop after race day.
Arts & Culture
Museum of Latin American Art
See modern and contemporary Latin American and Latinx art at the Museum of Latin American Art, with free admission every Sunday — a relaxed, indoor way to spend a taper day.
Outdoors & Trails
El Dorado Nature Center
Walk two miles of trails through forested areas and past two lakes at the El Dorado Nature Center — an easy option for tapering or recovering legs after race day.
Shopping
Retro Row
Browse vintage shops and dining along Retro Row on 4th Street, one of Long Beach’s most eclectic districts — an easy, flat stroll for a post-race souvenir.
Landmark
The Queen Mary
Tour The Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner permanently docked in Long Beach Harbor as a floating hotel and museum — an easy, low-impact stop after race weekend.
Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
Shoreline Village
Stroll the boardwalk at Shoreline Village along Rainbow Harbor, with views of the marina and downtown skyline — a relaxed, flat way to spend a rest day.
Hotels & Lodging Near the Long Beach Marathon
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Featured Race
A pancake-flat course made for chasing a PR — and a Boston Qualifier.
Boston Qualifier: Yes