Sunday, October 4th, 2026
Wilder Ranch State Park, Santa Cruz CA
12K
55–74°F · low rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 0 of the last 10 years
2025
52–70°F
dry
2024
65–89°F
dry
2023
57–84°F
dry
2022
55–76°F
dry
2021
58–80°F
dry
2020
59–85°F
dry
2019
45–73°F
dry
2018
59–64°F
dry
2017
48–75°F
dry
2016
55–62°F
dry
Best months to race in California →
Race week?
Don't forget the small stuff.
Gels, anti-chafe, throwaway layers — the checklist runners re-buy every race.
About this race
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 Day Picket Begins at 7:00am.
Discounts at Patagonia Outlet in Santa Cruz (40% off factory seconds)and Santa Cruz Running Company (30% off Nike apparel and 40% off plated shoes) all race weekend!
Race Headquarters and Parking
Course map
Train with a club
Run clubs near Santa Cruz to train with before race day.
Suggested Races
Organize this race?
Claim it free to manage your listing — and get it featured for free, while spots last.













