Now that you know about the race options, and possibly have even signed up to participate, let's make sure you're ready for what lies ahead!
Pacific Beach Half Marathon and 5K Finishing Up
2026 Packet Pick-Up
Before the race kicks off, you'll want to pick up your packet which will include your bib (with free post-race drink ticket), shirt, and timing chip. If you're running the half marathon or Surfside Double Shot Challenge, you'll also receive a pair of SDRC sunnies (also known as really sporty sunglasses).
You'll have multiple free packet pick-up options in addition to a 'Mail my Packet' and 'Event Day – Half Marathon' pick up that both will include an additional fee.
5K/Kid's Run Packet Pick-Up Options
You'll have two options to pick up your 5K or Kids Run packet. Both options are free!
You can stop by Road Runner Sports at '5553 Copley Dr, San Diego' on Friday October 2nd, 2026 from 11:00am until 6:00pm.
You can also pick up your packet on race day at the Pacific Beach Boardwalk at 4300 Ocean Blvd, San Diego. Times for race day pick up will be Saturday, October 3rd from 6:30am until 7:30am (5K early wave), 7:30am until 9:00am (5K main wave), and 9:00am until 10:30am (Kids Run).
If you're picking up for a friend, just be sure to bring a copy of their photo ID or their confirmation QR code.
Half Marathon Packet Pick-Up Options
As a half marathon participant, you'll have multiple options for picking up your packet before the race.
Just like the 5K and Kids Run, you too can stop by Road Runner Sports at '5553 Copley Dr, San Diego' on Friday October 2nd, 2026 from 11:00am until 6:00pm.
If you want to scout out the course the day before your race, you can grab your packet at the same time from the Pacific Beach Boardwalk at 4300 Ocean Blvd, San Diego from 9:00am until 2:00pm. These first two options are free!
If you'd prefer to pick up your packet on race day, there will be an option for that as well. You can grab your bib at the start line at Crown Point Park, Mission Bay on Sunday, October 4th, 2026 from 5:30am until 6:30am. Your tank top can be picked up at the finish line. With such an early start, just know that there's a small $25 fee for this option.
'Mail My Packet' Option
If you'd prefer to have your packet mailed to you, there is an option for just that!
For $17.50 per packet ($27.50 for a household) with a deadline of September 15th, 2026, the organization will mail your packet directly to your address of choice!
Make a Long Weekend Out of the Race!
If you're visiting from outside the area for race weekend or don't live in PB, I think it'd be really awesome to turn your race into a mini vacation.
As a longtime resident of Pacific Beach myself, I can tell you that my neighborhood has a lot to offer! From the boardwalk and pier to golden Pacific Beach beaches, coffee shops and an authentic San Diego vibe, I personally think there are few places 'more San Diego' than the location of the Pacific Beach Half Marathon & 5K.
Where to Stay Near the Race?
If you're planning to attend both days, the Pacific Beach area has some pretty amazing local accommodations. My favorite nearby hotels include The Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa in and the Tower23 Hotel.
The 4-star, beachfront Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa is about a 10-minute walk to the start line offering comfortable rooms, a warm pool, and an incredible spa.
When my friends and family need a place to stay in Pacific Beach, the Tower23 Hotel is one of my go-tos. It features ocean views, spacious rooms, a delicious restaurant, and a laidback San Diego vibe all less than 10 minutes by foot (or running shoes) from where the races kick off!
The Ultimate Race Weekend – Planned for You!
While the races will be incredible, it'd be awesome if you got to experience more of the area, whether that be for a long weekend, a few extra days, a week, or more!
With that in mind, I'd love to share our FREE 7-day plan with you where we introduce San Diego in a new and exciting way. Even better, we just launched a custom itinerary service where our team takes their local knowledge and builds you an itinerary complete with things like where we think you should consider staying, our favorite restaurants, things we think you should try (in addition to running in the PB Half Marathon & 5K of course), tips you'll only get from veteran locals, and more!
We're currently offering versions starting with a FREE 48-hour schedule, up to a fully customized option that even includes a call with me! During the call, I'll be sure to ask you about your travel style, group, and must-haves and you can also ask me any questions you might have! It's just that easy!
One More Quick Local Tip
As one more quick tip before we get back to the race weekend fun, if you're up for adding a few attractions or activities to your race weekend, a Go City San Diego pass is worth checking out. It's a great deal if you're looking for things to do in San Diego, like visiting local favorites SeaWorld San Diego and the USS Midway Museum. Both are just a short drive from Pacific Beach and are included as part of the pass.
Using the discount code GVSD5OFF will save you just a little more on your fun-filled passes.