Carlsbad Marathon – Course, Elevation and Race Info

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Carlsbad, California, the Carlsbad Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K has become a beloved fixture for runners seeking both challenging and scenic race conditions. Scheduled for mid-January each year, this event not only kicks off the running season in style but also serves as the first leg of the Southern California Half Marathon Triple Crown.

Course Highlights: The race’s primary attraction is undoubtedly its course. Participants are treated to miles of breathtaking ocean views, with the Pacific coastline providing a stunning backdrop. The marathon and half-marathon follow an out-and-back route, starting and finishing at the Plaza Camino Real shopping center, strategically located between Carlsbad and Oceanside. This course is renowned for its fast times, earning a reputation as one of the fastest in the San Diego area, thanks to its gently rolling profile and the energizing sea breeze.

Carlsbad Marathon at a Glance

  • Upcoming Race: January 18, 2026
  • 2025 Attendance: 1200 (Capped, 7K total)
  • 2025 First Place (Men’s): 02:33:33
  • 2025 First Place (Women’s): 02:58:10
  • 2024 First Place (Men’s): 02:38:18
  • 2024 First Place (Women’s): 02:49:36
  • Official Website: Carlsbad Marathon

(A) Carlsbad Marathon Course Map and Route Info

Scroll to zoom in and out. Click and hold to move around. Click on icons to see more race info such as gel stations and notable sights along the route.

Water stations and bathrooms are available approximately every mile. Gatorade every two miles. Gu energy gel is provided at mile 8, 9.5, 12.5, and 21.5.

(B) Carlsbad Marathon Elevation Profile Interactive Chart

(Last Updated: 01/11/2025)

(C) Carlsbad Marathon Expo

  • RetiSports will have a booth at the 2025 Expo
  • Location: Holiday Inn Carlsbad/San Diego, 2725 Palomar Airport Rd,
    Carlsbad, CA 92009
  • Hours: Friday, January 17, 12 to 4 PM and Saturday, January 18, 10 AM to 4 PM
  • All participants must pick up their bib number and SWAG at the expo. However, you can authorize someone else to pick it up for you, with a copy of your photo ID.

(D) Hotels and Lodging

Carlsbad is just north of San Diego and there are plenty of options for lodging.

The host hotel is Holiday Inn Carlsbad – San Diego, which is also the site of the Expo. It offers complimentary race day shuttle to and from the event site for hotel guests.

Holiday Inn Carlsbad - San Diego

Staybridge Suites is the co-host for the event and also provides free race-day shuttle services.

The Staybridge Carlsbad/San Diego

(E) Transportation

The Carlsbad Marathon, Half, and 5K start and finish at The Shoppes at Carlsbad, which offers parking for race participants. Carpool is encouraged to minimize congestion on race day. There’s also a dedicated drop off zone located on Monroe Street.

(F) Weather

Typical San Diego weather, although it can be a little chilly in the early morning hours.

January average weather in Carlsbad, CA

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