What is the Pacific Beach Half Marathon & 5K?
The PB Half & 5K is a fun and high-energy running event in San Diego, featuring a scenic coastal course through the heart of Pacific Beach. This two-day race weekend brings the vibes with a 5K and half marathon, plus the Surfside Double Shot Challenge for runners ready to take on both. From ocean views to post-race celebrations, it’s the ultimate San Diego race weekend.
Who is the Pacific Beach Half Marathon & 5K for? Is it beginner-friendly?
This race is designed for runners of all levels, from first-timers to seasoned athletes. Whether you’re running your first race or chasing a PR, this fun and high-energy San Diego running event has something for everyone. The 5K is perfect for beginners, while the half marathon is a great option for both experienced runners and those newer to long-distance racing, thanks to its flat, fast course, strong on-course support, and high-energy race day atmosphere.
What is the location of the start line?
What is included in my registration?
- Registration includes: race entry, tank top, chip-timed results, custom finishers medal and one complimentary drink ticket. Half marathoners also receive a custom pair of SDRC sunnies!
Is there event day registration?
- If the event does not sell out, registration will be available on event morning for $74.99 for the 5K and $39.99 for the Kids 1K Run. No registration is available on event day for the half marathon.
Where do I pick up my race packet?
- CLICK HERE to view all the information on packet pick-up.
Can I transfer my registration to another person or defer to a future San Diego Running Co. event?
- Transfers – Participant to Participant: Transfers are available on each event’s registration site. Simply select the “Transfer” button located on the right side of the event’s Race Roster registration page and follow the prompts. A $15 transfer fee applies. The transfer window expires 72 HOURS prior to the event date.
- Transfers – Changing Sub-Events: Sub-event transfers are available on each event’s registration site. Simply select the “Transfer” button located on the right side of the home page and follow the prompts. Refunds will not be applied for difference in sub-event pricing. The transfer window expires 72 HOURS prior to the event date.
- Transfer to Virtual: Participants that cannot attend the event but wish to participate virtually may transfer to virtual up to event day. Simply email our team at info@sandiegorunningco.com and we will mail your goods to your house! Additional mailing fees will apply.
- Deferrals: Participants are extended a one-time deferral option to either the following year’s event or another SDRC equivalent event. Deferral requests must be made ONE WEEK prior to the event date. A $15 deferral fee applies. Email us at info@sandiegorunningco.com with your deferral request.
- Deadline: All transfer and deferral requests must be received by the deadlines listed above, no exceptions.
Can I have my packet mailed to me?
- YES, for a $17.50 fee (plus service fees) we will mail all your participant goods right to your house! The deadline to purchase Mail My Packet is September 16, 2025. Click HERE to purchase.
Is the 5K run in the sand?
- YES, the 5K run consists of approximately 1.75 miles of running in the sand and 1.35 miles of running along the boardwalk.
- The Half Marathon race takes place entirely on closed streets and sidewalks along the beach and bay. The finish line for the half marathon is now on solid ground (on Thomas Avenue as it meets the Pacific Beach Boardwalk)- aka no more sand!
Is there a cut-off time for the Half Marathon?
- YES, you must maintain 3 hour and 15 minute finishing pace or 15 minute per mile pace. If you are off this pace you will be moved up along the course and you will still be able to cross the finish line and receive your finisher medal.
Will there be pace teams for the Half Marathon?
- YES! We’ve partnered with On Pace to provide pace teams for 16 different finish times from 1:25 through 3:00 (with at least two pacers per time). You can connect with the On Pace team at Friday’s packet pick-up or at the start line on race morning if you have questions or want to meet your pacer, or you can just jump in with your goal pace at the start line Sunday morning.
Can I walk the 5K?
- YES, we gladly welcome and encourage walkers. Although there is no defined course cut-off time, we asked that all 5K participants maintain a 20 minute per mile pace to allow us to remain on schedule for later race waves.
Where should I park for the event?
- All parking will be street parking in Pacific Beach.
- CLICK HERE for a map of paid parking lots.
Can I run with my dog?
- NO, per San Diego City regulations, dogs will not be allowed on the beach at the time of the run, unfortunately your four legged running buddy will have to sit this one out.
Can I run with a stroller?
- For the 5K, there are multiple soft sand crossings on the course and one small stair crossing so we HIGHLY RECOMMEND you do NOT run with a stroller. The Half Marathon is stroller friendly.
How do I volunteer?
- If you would like to join the festivities as a volunteer, we would love to have you! Email us at volunteers@sandiegorunningco.com and let us know you would like to volunteer. It takes a lot of support to make this event happen and it wouldn’t be possible without our amazing volunteers!
Does the event benefit an organization?
- The event benefits Discover Pacific Beach, a non-profit that supports the Pacific Beach community, the local beaches and its businesses.
- Learn more about DiscoverPB at www.pacificbeach.org
Where can I find my race results?
- CLICK HERE to find your official race results as well as results from previous years.
Will there be age group awards for both waves?
- 2025 Pacific Beach Half Marathon & 5K Overall and Age Group Awards will be distributed after the event to the following categories for both men and women:
- Half Marathon:
- Top 3 Overall, 13 & Under, 14 – 19, 20 – 24, 25 – 29, 30 – 34, 35 – 39, 40 – 44, 45 – 49, 50 – 54, 55 – 59, 60 – 64, 65 – 69, 70 – 74, 75 – 79, 80+
- 5K:
- Top 3 Overall, 13 & Under, 14 – 19, 20 – 24, 25 – 29, 30 – 34, 35 – 39, 40 – 44, 45 – 49, 50 – 54, 55 – 59, 60 – 64, 65 – 69, 70 – 74, 75 – 79, 80+
- Note: For the 5K, awards will be determined by the combined results of the 7:30a wave and the 9a wave. If you cannot stay until after the 9a wave to determine if you are a winner, and you are an age group or overall winner, we will mail you your award.
Where can I find more races in San Diego?
There’s no shortage of great races in San Diego. Check out our San Diego running event calendar to discover more events happening throughout the year.
Does San Diego Running Co. host other races in Pacific Beach?
Yes! The Pacific Beach Half Marathon & 5K is part of the RUN PB Challenge, a three-race series that includes the San Diego Leprechaun Run, the Pacific Beach Half Marathon & 5K, and the San Diego Santa Run. As race #2 in the 2026 series, it’s the perfect chance to keep the good vibes going and experience the best of Pacific Beach running events.
