Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
Incredibly scenic, well organized, perfect weather. I ran this marathon for the first time in 1996 and moved from NYC to Carlsbad in 1997
There are several hills but mile 2 is the steepest. Don’t panic if you’re behind your goal pace at the 5k mark
Plenty of parking at the start/ finish line and plenty of hotels from budget to luxury within 5 miles. Best local Italian restaurant is Vigiluccis & best pizza Leucadia Pizzeria.
Beautiful scenery, predictably good weather conditions, lots of perks.
Do not try to increase your pace until after the turn-around at mile 18. The climbs out of the three lagoons get harder on the last quarter of the race.
Parking is still abundant in the mall parking lot 45 minutes before race time (start and finish)
Love this course. Very well organized and well run. Replenishment stations perfectly spaced and well staffed, maybe a tall flag so you know a station is coming up. Missed taking GU, because I didn't notice it coming up because of the hills.
Start slow and know there are a lot of rolling hills through out wit this out and back course. Beautiful coast run!
Definitely arrive early. Traffic. But well directed. Just be patient.
Absolutely one of the best organized races I've participated in all my years of running. See you again next year!!
Absolutely one of the best organized races I've participated in all my years of running. See you again next year!!