The OC Marathon 2025 is scheduled for May 3-4, bringing runners of all levels to Orange County for a full marathon, half marathon, and 5K. Registration is open and participants have until 11:59 p.m. on May 2, 2025, to sign up online if spots are still available. The events start early on May 4, with the marathon kicking off at 5:30 a.m. and the half marathon at 6:30 a.m.

Runners, spectators, and supporters can expect a scenic course that highlights the beauty of Orange County. The festival atmosphere and variety of race distances make it accessible whether someone is aiming for a personal record or simply wants to enjoy a community event. Details on packet pickup, race schedules, and program downloads are available, making it easy for participants to prepare for the race weekend. More information can be found on the official OC Marathon website.

OC Marathon 2025 Essential Race Details and Registration Guide

Overview of the OC Marathon 2025

The OC Marathon is a large-scale running event that takes place in Orange County every year, drawing thousands of participants and spectators. The 2025 event will feature a variety of race categories and serve as a major fixture in the Southern California athletic calendar.

History and Growth

The Orange County Marathon began in 2004 and has since become one of the most prominent annual marathons in the region. Originally designed to showcase the beauty and diversity of Orange County, the event quickly grew in both prestige and size.

Over the years, participation has expanded, attracting runners from across the U.S. and internationally. Its continued success is reflected in steady registration numbers and strong community involvement.

The event has also adapted with new race offerings and updated courses to accommodate increasing interest. In 2025, the tradition continues with a focus on providing a memorable race day experience.

Race Categories

The OC Marathon Running Festival features several race options. These include the Full Marathon (26.2 miles), Half Marathon (13.1 miles), and a 5K event. The Full Marathon course leads runners on a tour of Orange County, starting at the Newport Beach Marriott Hotel & Spa and traversing scenic local neighborhoods.

Participants can select the event that best matches their skill and fitness level. Organizers also offer a running festival experience that spans the entire first weekend of May, with races scheduled from Saturday, May 3, 2025, through Sunday, May 4, 2025.

The festival also includes a Health and Fitness Expo, creating an exciting atmosphere for both runners and supporters. This multi-event format encourages wider community participation and allows runners to personalize their race goals.

Significance for Southern California

The OC Marathon is regarded as a key event on the Southern California racing calendar. It brings together a diverse range of runners, from beginners to elite athletes, highlighting the area's vibrant sports culture.

This marathon supports local charities and fosters community engagement across Orange County. The large turnout generates economic benefits for local hotels, restaurants, and businesses, while drawing attention to the region's scenic attractions.

For many athletes, the event is a stepping stone to larger races or a chance to set personal records in a supportive setting. As an annual tradition, it consistently reinforces the spirit of fitness and collaboration in Orange County and beyond.

Event Dates and Location

The OC Marathon returns in 2025 with events in Orange County, offering options for different ages and abilities. Key locations include Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and Santa Ana.

Race Weekend Schedule

The OC Marathon events span two days, starting on Saturday, May 3, 2025. The day begins with the Kids Run the OC at 8:00 AM, providing a fun opportunity for children to participate. Later, the Hoag OC 5K takes place at 5:30 PM.

The full marathon and the half marathon are scheduled for Sunday, May 4, 2025, both starting at 5:30 AM. Packet pick-up is available at the OC Lifestyle & Fitness Expo on May 2 from 3:00–7:00 PM, and again on May 3 from 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Participants can choose from several events:

• Kids Run the OC
• Hoag OC 5K
• Half Marathon
• Full Marathon

Event details and registration options are available on the official OC Marathon registration page.

Starting Points and Finish Line

The marathon traditionally starts in Newport Beach, offering views of the coastline. Runners move inland, passing through Santa Ana and other scenic parts of Orange County.

Both the half marathon and full marathon finish at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa. This centralized finish area allows for easy access, parking, and post-race activities. The Hoag OC 5K and Kids Run also take place in and around the Costa Mesa area.

For specific course maps and details on each starting point, participants are encouraged to check the official OC Marathon site. Distinct signage and event staff will be available to guide participants between event areas.

Course Route Highlights

The 2025 OC Marathon features a diverse and scenic course that showcases several of Orange County’s most well-known locations. Runners encounter oceanfront paths, residential neighborhoods, and stretches with coastal and mountain views.

Route Map and Landmarks

The marathon route starts in Newport Beach and features a primarily coastal path. Early miles take runners along the oceanfront, offering views of the Pacific Ocean before entering residential streets.

Key areas include Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and Santa Ana, combining city and coastal scenery through varied neighborhoods. Participants pass landmarks like the Orange County Fairgrounds and run near the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve.

The course does not go through Disneyland, but it highlights the different personalities of each city. Runners can expect clear course maps and support throughout the route, making navigation straightforward. Participants also benefit from well-marked turns and regular aid stations.

Elevation and Terrain

The OC Marathon course is known for its net downhill profile, making it a popular choice for personal best attempts and Boston Marathon qualification. Elevation changes are gradual rather than steep, providing a consistently manageable run for a wide range of abilities.

Runners will experience a mix of terrain, starting near sea level at the coast and then descending gently as the course heads inland. Coastal breezes are common in early miles while later sections move through urban streets and parks.

Surface conditions along the route consist mainly of paved roads with minimal off-road segments. There are no significant hills, but small rolling inclines may appear in residential areas, so pacing strategy remains important for all participants. For more course details and a map, see the official OC Marathon course overview.

Registration and Entry Requirements

For the 2025 OC Marathon, registration deadlines and eligibility rules are clearly defined. Participants should be aware of the official registration process, required identification, and minimum age limits for different races.

How to Register

Registration for the OC Marathon 2025 is available online until 11:59 p.m. on May 2, 2025, or until all spots are filled. Late sign-ups after this deadline must be completed in person if space allows.

Entrants must create an account, select their desired race (full, half, or 5K), and pay the entry fee. Team registration is open for groups, with discounts for teams of four or more. It is important for team captains to handle group sign-ups to secure spots for every member.

Each runner receives a confirmation email once registered. To pick up race materials such as the bib and timing chip, runners need to show photo ID at the event check-in. Full details and step-by-step sign-up instructions can be found on the OC Marathon registration page.

Participant Eligibility

Age requirements vary by race distance. For both the marathon and half marathon, participants must be at least 13 years old on race day. The 5K usually allows younger runners, but children should be accompanied by an adult if needed.

All participants agree to a race waiver during registration, an important legal step completed by signing electronically or at the expo. Proper identification is mandatory for picking up bibs and race packets. These measures ensure that every entrant meets the minimum standards set by the event.

Further expectations include wearing the assigned bib and chip during the race. For detailed eligibility rules, review the official OC Marathon FAQ.

Charity and Community Involvement

Each year, the OC Marathon works with multiple charities and nonprofit organizations to support local causes. Fundraising efforts and volunteer participation are central to the event’s impact in Orange County.

Partner Charities

The OC Marathon partners with a variety of charities, including both national organizations and local groups. For 2025, prominent partners include the American Cancer Society, which raises funds and awareness through runner recruitment and donations. Project Youth OC, celebrating over 20 years of partnership, helps at-risk youth in the community with education and health programs.

Designated charity partners receive official status and benefits such as event promotion, volunteer opportunities, and fundraising support. Collectively, these partnerships generate more than $650,000 annually for their causes during the Hoag OC Running Festival. Details on all official partners can be found on the OC Marathon charity partners page.

Non-Profit Organization Participation

Nonprofit organizations actively participate by forming teams, recruiting volunteers, and encouraging community involvement. Groups like Project Youth OCBF use the marathon as an opportunity to gather supporters and spotlight their missions. Many nonprofits set up information booths, recruit runners, and organize cheering sections along the racecourse.

Volunteer engagement is a crucial element, with tasks ranging from helping at water stations to managing event logistics. Local nonprofits also use the marathon platform to develop relationships with supporters and enhance their presence in Orange County. For more on participation and impact, visit Project Youth OC's event page.

Race Day Logistics and Support

The OC Marathon prioritizes efficient logistics and runner safety from start to finish. Planning ahead can help participants avoid delays and ensure a smooth experience on race day in Orange County.

Transportation and Parking

The event provides several transportation and parking options to streamline arrival and departure. Parking at the OC Fair & Event Center (the finish line) costs $12 per day and payment is by credit or debit card only. Arriving early is encouraged, as lots can fill quickly with thousands of runners and spectators.

For runners starting at Fashion Island, parking availability may differ, and using a rideshare service or arranging a drop-off is strongly recommended. This can help avoid congestion and make access to the start much easier. The organizers specifically suggest this for the 2025 OC Marathon Running Festival.

Detailed route maps, shuttle schedules, and further transportation tips are typically sent out before race weekend via email or are available on the official OC Marathon website. Following these recommendations helps everyone arrive on time and less stressed.

Aid Stations and Medical Support

Aid stations are spaced at regular intervals along the OC Marathon and half marathon routes. Each station provides water and electrolyte drinks so participants can stay hydrated during the race.

A team of medical staff and volunteers is present at major aid stations, ready to assist runners who may feel unwell or require medical help. Mobile medics and bike teams also patrol the course to respond to emergencies quickly.

The finish area at the OC Fair & Event Center features an enhanced medical support zone, which includes cooling tents, first aid, and resources for post-race recovery. Organizers partner with local healthcare providers to ensure well-organized support, prioritizing runner safety throughout the course.

Travel and Visitor Information

Orange County offers diverse hotel options and easy access to major attractions. Visitors can expect comfortable stays close to the marathon route and enjoy top destinations before or after race day.

Accommodation Options

Participants have a range of accommodation choices, from full-service hotels to budget-friendly inns. Costa Mesa and Newport Beach—adjacent to the marathon start and finish areas—feature hotels such as the Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa, Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel, and many local boutique options.

Many hotels offer early breakfast and transport shuttles during marathon weekend. Reservations are recommended well in advance, especially for May 2025, as runners from across Southern California and beyond attend this event. Several properties have special marathon rates for guests.

For those traveling with family or in groups, short-term vacation rentals are widely available throughout Orange County. Staying near major highways provides easy access to the OC Marathon 2025 event locations.

Top Attractions Near the Marathon

Visitors often explore the area's top attractions while in Orange County for the marathon. Disneyland, one of California's most popular destinations, is less than 30 minutes from Costa Mesa and offers extended hours in the spring.

The nearby South Coast Plaza is a major shopping and dining hub, featuring luxury retailers and renowned restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Newport Beach’s oceanfront, enjoy local parks, or experience the scenic trails along Upper Newport Bay.

Cultural sites such as the Orange County Museum of Art and The Segerstrom Center for the Arts provide enriching options for post-race leisure. The region’s mild climate makes sightseeing comfortable throughout early May, adding to the convenience for out-of-town guests.