Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
Very well organized, flat course, pretty views, not a ton of spectators (which I like), and just the perfect course to qualify for Boston. The weather is usually perfect running weather that time of year!
It's a very well organized, small race on a rail trail with a time trial start. There will be few distractions and you can focus on your running. That's a positive for some people but I need some excitement and encouragement from the crowds and other runners.
The out and back course, which you run twice, has a hill with a gentle grade so there are four hills in total. The review from 2018 is of a different course by the ocean.
Parking next to the start is plentiful. The time trial start keeps the porta potty lines short.
I ran my first marathon here and BQ'd by almost 8 minutes. The well supported loop course quickly becomes familiar so you know when to expect fuel stops. It also sets up so your fans can cheer for you multiple times on each of the 6 laps. The course is on the water and scenic, we even saw seals on the beach.
Because it is such a flat course, a steady pace is appropriate. There are enough fans on the course that you never feel alone and you can easily find those that came out to support you. 3 fuel areas are well spaced on the approximately 4.5 mile course and after the first lap you will know exactly where to expect them.
Plenty of parking makes for easy arrival logistics. They do close the road shortly before the race however so make sure you aren't late.