Run by the Sea 2026 — Santa Cruz, CA

Date
October 4, 2026
Location
Santa Cruz, CA
Venue
Wilder Ranch State Park
Start Time
8:00 AM
Entry Fee
$45.00 – $125.00
Events
Run by the Sea 4k, Run by the Sea 12k, Run by the Sea Half Marathon
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration OpenOfficial Race Website

On October 4, 2026, Run by the Sea takes place in Santa Cruz, California at Wilder Ranch State Park. The event offers two running distances: a 12K and a 4K, giving runners options based on their fitness level and goals. Entry fees range from $45 to $125 depending on registration timing and distance selected. The race starts at 8:00 AM, allowing competitors to complete their effort before midday temperatures rise. Whether you're training for a longer endurance goal or looking for a shorter tempo effort, this coastal California venue provides a straightforward racing opportunity for runners of varying abilities.

From the Race Organizer
Run by the Sea returns to lovely Wilder Ranch State Park on Sunday, October 4th! This unique Half Marathon, 12K run, and 4K run/walk meanders along the gorgeous coastal bluffs of California's Central Coast in Santa Cruz and consists mostly of flat, packed dirt trails. Participants will enjoy scenic coastal views while passing along the bluffs and Wilder Ranch park trails. Get ready to take in the natural beauty of the Monterey Bay, the serene flats of Wilder Ranch's meadows, and maybe even catch a glimpse of some dolphins - no other race is quite like it! Now in its 10th year, Run by the Sea is organized by the Santa Cruz Track Club and benefits the track club's youth program, Bike Santa Cruz County, and Santa Cruz Mountain Trail Stewards. Race Headquarters and Parking 4K Route 12K Route Half Marathon Route

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Santa Cruz, CA. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Run by the Sea 2026 — Santa Cruz, CA

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for October 4.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Santa Cruz, CA. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Run by the Sea 2026 — Santa Cruz, CA?

Run by the Sea 2026 — Santa Cruz, CA takes place on October 4, 2026. The race is held in Santa Cruz, California.

Where is Run by the Sea 2026 — Santa Cruz, CA held?

Run by the Sea 2026 — Santa Cruz, CA is held at Wilder Ranch State Park in Santa Cruz, California.

Where can I find hotels near Run by the Sea 2026 — Santa Cruz, CA?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Santa Cruz. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.