Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Run and Half Marathon

The Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Run and Half Marathon is Morro Bay, California's longtime coastal running tradition, now reaching its 57th year with the Rock'n Around the Pier Half Marathon marking its 13th edition. The half marathon starts at Morro Rock, follows the shoreline north along hard-packed sand to Cayucos Pier, loops through Cloisters Park near mile 10.5, and returns to Morro Rock for the finish. Runners should expect wet shoes and rocky, uneven terrain -- organizers call it a true beach run. The course closes at noon, four hours after the 8:00 AM start. Dogs are prohibited on race day because the course crosses Snowy Plover nesting habitat. Morro Bay Recreation Services hosts a post-race breakfast, live music, and age-group awards for all finishers back at Morro Rock. Half marathon registration for the 2027 edition opens December 18, 2026 through RunSignUp, with entry priced at $91.60. The event honors the memory of Brian Waterbury and remains a fixture of the Central California Coast running calendar.