

The Retro Run – 5K, 10k, 10m, and Half Marathon
Retro Run: a beachside half with old-school vibes and a flat seaside course.
Race Date
Sep 27, 2026
Location
Long Beach, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, September 27, 2026
- Location
- Long Beach, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5K, 10K, 10 Miles
- Course
- Out & Back
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 84
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Retro Run brings a playful blast from the past to Long Beach’s Alamitos Beach. This flat, out-and-back half-marathon hugs the shoreline, offering ocean views and a forgiving course that’s ideal for first-timers chasing a PR. With a 3:20 cutoff and a relaxed, non-closed route, the vibe is more about fun than fast splits—though the pancake-flat elevation certainly helps.
Now in its third year, the race draws runners from about five states, with a steady field that leans local and community-driven. The retro theme encourages bold outfits and old-school style, adding a festive layer to the seaside setting. Post-race, participants enjoy a store discount at Sports Basement, and the $2/hour parking keeps logistics simple. For a low-key, beachside half with character, the Retro Run delivers a charming, accessible experience.
Race-provided description
Lace up and throw it back for the Retro Run, a beachside race bringing old-school vibes, bold outfits, and plenty of fun to the shore. Come ready to run, walk, dress the part, and celebrate every mile in retro style. Race Details Start Location: Alamitos Beach, 780 E Shoreline Ave, Long Beach, CA Parking: Parking in the lot is $2/hour and starts at 8am, if you are running the Half/10m you can use the Passport app to pay for parking. Street parking is free. Event Schedule Saturday 1-3:00pm – Bib pick-up on the 2nd floor at Sports Basement Long Beach (store discount sent via email the week of the event) Sunday 6:20am – Bib pick-up opens at the start 7:00am – Half marathon and 10-miler start 7:30am – 5k & 10k start 10:20am – Course closes (3 hours, 20 minutes for the Half) Early start of 6:30am may be pre-arranged in advance for half marathoners, email your request to events@hightideruns.com. All early starters will not be eligible for awards. Out and Back Course 5k & 10k: The 5k route is used for the 5k (one lap) and 10k (two laps) – 5k route 10m: The 5m route is used for the 10m (two laps) – 5m route Half: The 5m route is run twice and the 5k route is run once for the Half – 5m route and 5k route More About the Course This is an out and back course, meaning you will begin and finish in the same location. Our courses are not closed, which means that there are often runners, walkers, and others enjoying the day along with you. Safety is must and all runners must stay on the pedestrian side of the beach path. The course never goes off the beach path. On-course support: Courses are well marked with two water stations and restrooms along the way. Turns will be clearly marked with chalk, a sign that says runner turn, and a flag. Final Details Bib: Please wear your race bib on the front of your shirt so we can track your time and send your pics! Gear Check: You may leave personal items with staff at the registration tent. Please bring your own bag. Awards: All finishers earn a race medal. 1st place medals are given to the overall 1st male and female in each distance. Results & Photos: An email with race results and photos will be sent the day after the race and earlier on Instagram. Race photos are free! Join Us Again: Did you have a blast running with us at our low-pressure, high vibes race? We have themed races throughout the year in Long Beach, the San Fernando Valley, and Orange County. Register for multiple races at a time to earn a discount. Check our full schedule Have Another Question? Check our FAQ page, it's probably answered there!
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, September 27, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Start Location
780 E Shoreline Ave, Long Beach, CA, 90803
Course Info
Course Type
Out & Back
Terrain
road
Scenery
Coastal
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
3 years running
~19 finishers a year
small race — neutral
0% returning runners
5 timing sources
runners from 5 states
winner 1:37:12
typical high 76°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
61°
Afternoon (High)
76°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.0"
Precipitation
10 mph
Wind
80%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 84 finishers actually crossed the line across 3 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
84
Median time
1:57:08
Latest turnout
12
States
11
Turnout by year
2023–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Frequently asked
When is the The Retro Run – 5K, 10k, 10m, and Half Marathon?
The The Retro Run – 5K, 10k, 10m, and Half Marathon is held on Sunday, September 27, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.
Where does the The Retro Run – 5K, 10k, 10m, and Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in Long Beach, California.
What distances does the The Retro Run – 5K, 10k, 10m, and Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5K, 10K, 10 Miles.
Is the The Retro Run – 5K, 10k, 10m, and Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The The Retro Run – 5K, 10k, 10m, and Half Marathon is a ultra-flat, out & back course.
How many people run the The Retro Run – 5K, 10k, 10m, and Half Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 84 runners who have completed the The Retro Run – 5K, 10k, 10m, and Half Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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