Monterey Bay Half Marathon
The Lowdown
The Monterey Bay Half Marathon has grown into a beloved coastal road race and a local favorite for more than a decade, drawing runners from across California and beyond to the Monterey Peninsula each November. While modest in scale compared with major city marathons, the event has become known for its dependable cool-weather timing, well-organized aid and volunteer support, and a community-driven spirit that highlights the region’s maritime and conservation heritage. The race serves both competitive runners seeking fast times and recreational participants out for a scenic, celebratory run. The out-and-back course showcases some of Monterey’s most iconic shoreline scenery, with stretches alongside the blue waters of Monterey Bay, views of rocky headlands, and glimpses of sea birds and occasional seals. Runners pass through charming districts such as Cannery Row and the Old Fisherman’s Wharf area, with portions of the route offering panoramic vistas of the coastline and the Point Pinos lighthouse. The atmosphere is festive but relaxed — local bands, cheer stations, and enthusiastic crowds create a supportive environment, and the cool November climate typically provides ideal running conditions. The course is USATF-certified and organized as a Boston Qualifier, making it appealing for those chasing a fast half-marathon time as well as participants looking to enjoy one of California’s most scenic coastal races.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Large field
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Good crowd energy
Historic Downtown Monterey: The race begins in this area, allowing runners to experience the charm of Monterey's rich history.
Cannery Row: This iconic waterfront street, immortalized by author John Steinbeck, features preserved cannery buildings and offers picturesque views of the bay.
Monterey Bay Aquarium: Situated on Cannery Row, this renowned aquarium is visible along the route and is a highlight for many participants.
Lovers Point Park: Located in Pacific Grove, this park provides panoramic ocean vistas and is a favorite spot for spectators and runners alike.
montereybayhalfmarathon.org
Point Pinos Lighthouse: As runners approach Point Pinos, they can glimpse this historic lighthouse, which stands as the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast.
montereybayhalfmarathon.org
Asilomar State Beach: The course reaches its turnaround point near this serene beach, known for its natural beauty and coastal dunes.
Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail: A significant portion of the race follows this trail, offering continuous views of the Pacific Ocean and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Monterey, California, United States
US
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Eligibility
- Other than age of 12, NA
Required Documents
- Photo ID
Entry Methods
- Online Registration
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Refunds and Cancellations:
No Refunds: The event does not offer refunds for registrations.
One-Year Deferral: Participants unable to attend can defer their registration to the following year's event for a $25 fee. This deferral is valid for one year only.
Person-to-Person Transfer: Registrants may transfer their entry to another individual within the same race category for a $20 fee. The transfer process involves the original entrant initiating the transfer through their Active.com account, after which the new participant completes the registration. Once finalized, the original registrant is refunded their registration fee minus the $20 transfer fee.
Optional Protection: During registration, participants can opt for refund protection through Protect Group. This allows for a refund if unable to attend due to specific reasons. Note that this protection must be selected during the initial registration and cannot be added retroactively. Refunds under this protection are processed by Protect Group, not the race organizers.
For the most current information and any updates to these policies, it's advisable to consult the official Monterey Bay Half Marathon website or contact the organizers directly.
Participants are encouraged to book accommodations early due to the popularity of the event. Monterey offers various attractions, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium and scenic coastal views, making it an ideal destination for a race weekend.
This race is organized by the Big Sur International Marathon team, known for attention to detail. While much of the route is along coastline (with fewer spectators aside from volunteers and the odd curious seal!), the atmosphere is serene and scenic.
Registration details to be announced; please check the official website for updates. Often reaches capacity by fall.
Travel: Monterey is a smaller city; book accommodations early (or stay in nearby towns like Carmel).
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
Learn from fellow runners and share insights that will help the next person toe the line.