HalfRuns
The Retro Run – 5K, 10k, 10m, and Half Marathon

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

Beginner Friendly

Atmosphere

Local Community

Course

Fast Flat

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

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Out & Back

Terrain

road

Scenery

Coastal

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Net Drop/km

0 m (Flat)

Separation

0.0%

Also Offers

5K10K10 Miles

Quality Score

Methodology
Heritage6/20

3 years running

Size6/15

~19 finishers a year

Momentum3/5

small race — neutral

Loyalty0/20

0% returning runners

Course & details5/15

5 timing sources

National draw4/10

runners from 5 states

Front-pack speed0/5

winner 1:37:12

Weather0/10

typical high 76°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (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

10%
25%
75%
90%
1:30p50 median ≈ 2:053:30

Turnout by year

20232025

'23'24'25
See full results

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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