Carlsbad Marathon & Half Marathon & 5K

Carlsbad Marathon & Half Marathon & 5K is held in Carlsbad, California, on January 17, 2027, on a coastal course. Four entries are available: the marathon (26.2 miles), the half marathon (13.1 miles), the 5K, and the Double Down Challenge, which pairs the 5K and the half marathon for 16.2 miles across the day. More than 20 fully stocked aid stations and continuous entertainment line the route, staffed by a large volunteer crew.

Every finisher receives a gender-specific long-sleeve technical shirt, a virtual gift bag, a medal, a mylar blanket and post-race refreshments including chocolate milk. This is run as a boutique-style event in the self-styled village by the sea, with the emphasis on service rather than size. A January marathon means building through the fall, so plan on 16 weeks with a weekly long run; the Double Down suits a runner who wants a longer day without committing to the full distance.