Monterey Bay Half Marathon

Monterey Bay Half Marathon runs over two days in Monterey, California, November 7–8, 2026. Saturday holds the By-the-Bay 3K at 8 a.m. and the Pacific Grove Lighthouse 5K (3.1 miles) at 8:30 a.m.; Sunday brings the half marathon (13.1 miles) at 7 a.m., on a USATF-certified course with a 3:30 cutoff.

The out-and-back route leaves downtown Monterey, passes historic Cannery Row and follows the Pacific Grove coastline, with ocean views, Victorian houses and a chance of spotting whales, otters or dolphins. It is mostly flat, so it suits a first half marathon or a personal-best attempt equally well. Finishers are met at Custom House Plaza with music, beer and an awards ceremony. Running Saturday's 5K and Sunday's half completes the Ocean View Challenge, worth three medals.