California in late fall and early winter is a gift to runners. The summer heat has finally let go, the mornings are crisp, and the coast is at its most photogenic. Whether you are chasing your first 13.1 or your fiftieth state, this window — November 2026 through January 2027 — is stacked with 19 upcoming half marathons across the state. We picked four standouts to put on your radar now, because the good ones fill up fast.
Monterey Bay Half Marathon — Sunday, November 8, 2026
Monterey, California
There is something about running along the water in Monterey that makes the miles feel a little lighter. The Monterey Bay Half Marathon lands on Sunday, November 8, 2026, and it earns a quality score of 92 out of 100. If you have been looking for a fall race with a coastal feel and a welcoming vibe, this one deserves a serious look. November mornings here can be cool and misty — bring a layer you are okay shedding at the start.
Santa Barbara Half Marathon & 5K — Sunday, November 8, 2026
Santa Barbara, California
Same weekend, a different slice of California. The Santa Barbara Half Marathon & 5K also runs on Sunday, November 8, 2026, and scores 89 out of 100. Santa Barbara has that postcard quality — palm trees, ocean air, and a town that feels like a weekend getaway even when you are there to race. If you are bringing a friend or family member who is not ready for 13.1, the 5K gives them a way to be part of the day.
Berkeley Half Marathon — Sunday, November 15, 2026
Berkeley, California
A week later, the Berkeley Half Marathon takes over the East Bay on Sunday, November 15, 2026. With a quality score of 97 out of 100, this is one of the highest-rated races in the window. Berkeley brings a college-town energy and a course that rewards you with views and neighborhood charm. If you have been waiting for a reason to plan a fall trip to the Bay Area, this is a good one.
Rose Bowl Half Marathon — Sunday, January 17, 2027
Pasadena, California
Looking a little further out? The Rose Bowl Half Marathon in Pasadena on Sunday, January 17, 2027, also scores 97 out of 100. January in Pasadena is mild and bright — a welcome escape for runners from colder parts of the country. It is a great way to start the new year with a goal already on the calendar, and the Rose Bowl setting gives the day a big-race feel without the intimidation.
How to Choose
If you want to race soon, the November races give you a few weeks to sharpen up. If you want a longer build, January in Pasadena is a smart target. Either way, California in this season is hard to beat: cool mornings, scenic routes, and a running community that is happy you showed up.
Find Your Next California Half
These four are just the start. There are 19 upcoming half marathons in California between November 2026 and January 2027, and you can browse every one of them — with dates, cities, and details — in our California half marathon directory. Pick your race, mark the date, and give yourself something to look forward to. Whether this is your first half or one of many, we are glad you are here.