Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Run
Morro Bay's Rock to Pier Run offers a scenic beach run with a rich 55-year tradition.
Race Date
Jul 18, 2026
Location
Morro Bay, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, July 18, 2026
- Location
- Morro Bay, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 6.2 Miles, 6 Miles
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Mixed
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Run, now in its 55th year, invites runners to experience the Central Coast's beauty. This unique event begins at the iconic Morro Rock, with participants heading along the shoreline for an unforgettable beach-running adventure. The course is primarily on hard-packed sand, mostly flat and firm, though runners should be prepared for wet feet depending on the tide. Some easy rock outcroppings may require brief scrambling.
This race is a beloved community tradition, drawing participants for its casual, fun atmosphere. While exact field sizes vary, recent years have seen around 800 10K runners and 200 half marathoners. The event emphasizes honoring a legacy and celebrating coastal beauty, making it a destination for those seeking a memorable race day experience.
Race-provided description
Run the Coast. Honor a Legacy. Experience the Central Coast at its Best! Join us on Saturday, July 18, 2026, for the 56th annual Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Fun Run and the 12th annual Rock’n Around the Pier Half Marathon, starting at 8:00 AM. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Central Coast, both events begin at Morro Rock and take runners along the shoreline for an unforgettable beach-running experience. Event Options Rock to Pier Fun Run (6 miles) Run from Morro Rock to the iconic Cayucos Pier, finishing right at the pier. This beach run is open to all ages and abilities—perfect for seasoned runners and first-timers alike. Rock’n Around the Pier Half Marathon A challenging and scenic out-and-back course starting at Morro Rock, heading to the Cayucos Pier, and returning south. At mile 10.5, runners will detour through Cloisters Park before finishing back at Morro Rock. Course closes at 12:00 PM. Race Day Details Both events start at 8:00 AM Water/Aid Stations throughout course! Expect wet shoes—this is a true beach run! Post-race breakfast and awards at Morro Rock Bus transportation provided from Cayucos Pier back to Morro Rock for Rock to Pier participants Parking is limited in Cayucos; ample parking available at Morro Rock (arrive early!)
Extras & Notes Limited shirt sizes available (some sizes sold out) Dogs are not allowed on the course due to Snowy Plover nesting season Come celebrate tradition, community, and coastal beauty in one of California’s most unique running events. Whether you’re racing for a personal best or soaking in the scenery, this is a run you won’t forget!
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, July 18, 2026
Start Time
8:00 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt (Women's size run small)
Start Location
end of Coleman Dr, Morro Bay, CA, 93442
Course Info
Course Type
Point to Point
Terrain
mixed
Scenery
Coastal, Park
Surface
Dirt Trail, Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
3 timing sources
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 64°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
53°
Afternoon (High)
64°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.0"
Precipitation
8 mph
Wind
88%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Run?
The Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Run is held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Run take place?
It takes place in Morro Bay, California.
What distances does the Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 6.2 Miles, 6 Miles.
Is the Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Run course flat and good for a PR?
The Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Run is a ultra-flat, point to point course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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