Courses

Half Marathon Course Overview

The City to the Sea Half Marathon, presented by Running Warehouse, is a breathtaking point-to-point race that begins in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo. The course guides runners past iconic local landmarks, through scenic country backroads, and along the picturesque Bob Jones Trail, culminating at the edge of the Pacific Ocean in the charming coastal community of Avila Beach.

This beautiful course delivers a truly unique Central Coast experience - from the charm of downtown SLO to the relaxing vibes of the Pacific shoreline.

Course Support

Aid Stations:
Locations will be announced soon!

  • All stations will include water and restrooms

Race Timing & Policies

  • Course Time Limit: 3.5 hours

  • Walkers Welcome: Walkers may begin prior to the official 7:00 AM start

  • Start Time: 7:00 AM

  • No Strollers, Skates, or Pets are not permitted on the course

  • We proudly welcome athletes of all abilities, including those using wheelchairs

Celebrate Your Finish in Style

Top 100 Half Marathon Finishers will receive an exclusive City to the Sea commemorative mug—a perfect keepsake to honor your accomplishment.

All Half Marathon and 5K participants will earn a custom finisher’s medal and a stylish event t-shirt to celebrate the day.

Post-Race Perks

After you cross the finish line, refuel and relax with:

  • Fresh fruit and hot coffee

  • A complimentary beer for participants age 21 and over

  • Breathtaking coastal views on the oceanfront bluffs

  • Live music, local expo booths, and breakfast options from

    on-site food trucks

Shuttle & Transportation

Shuttle buses will be available to return runners to the start-line area in San Luis Obispo. Prefer your own plan? You're welcome to arrange private transportation.

Come for the Race, Stay for the Experience

City to the Sea is more than a race—it's a celebration of community, coastline, and personal achievement. Join us for an unforgettable day on California’s Central Coast.

Two Distances. One Epic Finish Line. Choose Your Race and Join the Journey!

5K Course Overview

The Avila-Seaside 5K is a scenic out-and-back 3.1-mile route that starts at:

6464 Ana Bay Road, Avila Beach, CA 93424
and finishes at the stunning Avila Beach Resort.

Approximately 75% of the course offers sweeping views of Avila Beach, the harbor, and the Pacific Ocean. Runners and walkers alike are encouraged to keep an eye out - you might catch glimpses of sea lions, otters, or even whales along the way.

The route also briefly joins the beautiful and shaded Bob Jones Trail, giving participants a taste of one of the Central Coast’s most beloved pathways before finishing oceanside at the lively Avila Beach Resort - home to the shared City to the Sea Finish Line Festival.

Course Support

  • Aid Station:
    One water-only station located at the turnaround point, serving both mile 1 and mile 2

Race Timing & Participant Guidelines

  • Course Time Limit: 1 hour from the race start

  • Start Time: 7:30 AM

  • Strollers Welcome: Joggers/strollers are permitted. For safety and courtesy, we ask that participants with strollers start toward the back.

  • No Pets Allowed on the Course

  • All Ages & Abilities Welcome

Course Maps Coming Soon!