Orange County Marathon

The Hoag OC Marathon takes place in May 2026 across the trail system of Newport Beach, offering runners a flat to gently rolling 42.2-kilometer course with minimal elevation change that rarely exceeds 77 meters above sea level. This low-lying coastal route makes it an approachable choice for runners seeking a fast marathon without the burden of significant climbing, though the trail surface demands respect and proper footwear. Beyond the race itself, the event provides an extensive weekend experience including a half marathon, 5K options, pace group support, training plans tailored for first-timers, and a lifestyle expo with exhibitors and entertainment. If you're serious about the marathon, you can dive into structured challenges like the Beach Cities Challenge or A Snail's Pace program, or keep things simple with standard registration and hotel packages. The race is tied to Hoag Hospital's community partnerships, meaning your entry connects to local charity fundraising opportunities if that matters to you.