2013 Registration is Now Open!
"26.2 Miles of Running Heaven™"
The Half Moon Bay International Marathon
The Half Moon Bay International Marathon features "26.2 Miles of Running Heaven" along the gorgeous Pacific Coastline in the charming area of Half Moon Bay, California. Described by past participants as "Big race amenities with a small town feel", race organizers have worked very hard to create an event which will endure for years to come.
The HMBIM includes a full and half marathon distance and a Free 5K fun run. The Full and Half distances are run on a mixture of paved coastal trails, local streets and some hard-packed dirt trails, while the 5k is entirely on paved trails. The trail portions of the course offer some of the most spectacular vistas of the entire course.
The marathon course is unique in that it features 26 miles all along the Pacific coastline, avoiding all major streets for a wonderful running experience. September offers the prettiest weather for the local area, yet ideal running conditions as temperatures will typically range between the low 50s to the mid 60s.
The Marathon is USATF certified and accordingly is recognized by the Boston Marathon and other events which require qualification on a certified course. The course is a relatively flat course with very little elevation gain, run at sea level in usually excellent weather conditions---a great opportunity for you to meet or exceed your goals!
Below are a few of the memories captured of the 2012 Event by HMBIM staff photographer, Lars Howlett. All of the gorgeous staff photos are available for download, print, or even a free e-card on the photos page.
About our Community
A coastal town with a quaint fishing harbor, Half Moon Bay is only 25 miles south of world-famous San Francisco, yet feels miles away because of the slow pace and small-town friendliness. The start and finish of the race is in the same harbor where the world-famous Mavericks Big Wave Invitational is held, and home to hotels, spas, and many unique restaurants.
The Half Moon Bay International Marathon is investing the time, effort and funds to provide a sustainable, GREEN event to enhance our relationship benefitting the beautiful coastal environment we refer to as the "Coastside." We are very proud of receiving the highest level of recognition from the Council for Responsible Sport as a Gold Certified Event in our inaugural year. This reflects our comittment and focus, headed up by our Chief Green Officer (CGO) working with the Council for Responsible Sport and supporting our coveted Gold Certification through their organization. This ensures we have Green principles in the foremost of our planning and execution. See our GREEN page for full information!
Come for the beauty, come for the weather, come and spend time in Half Moon Bay, and combine it with a visit to San Francisco or the Napa Valley Wine Country, all within a short drive!
All of this combined means 26.2 Miles of Running Heaven!
