Long Beach

The Long Beach Marathon takes place in Long Beach, California, and follows a flat, looped course that showcases the city’s waterfront and urban areas. The race starts near downtown and quickly reaches the oceanfront, where runners follow long stretches along the Pacific coastline. The course includes sections through Shoreline Village, the Long Beach Convention Center area, and residential neighborhoods, before looping back along the beachfront bike paths. Elevation remains very low throughout, with minor rollers and short rises, particularly around the middle portion of the course and again in the final miles. The route stays close to sea level, allowing for consistent pacing and making it well suited for fast times.