2027 Winter Beach Run
Winter Beach Run: Jacksonville's classic beach run since 1976.
Expected Race Date
~Jan 2027
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Jacksonville Beach, FL
Quick facts
- Date
- around January 2027 (expected)
- Location
- Jacksonville Beach, Florida
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Now in its 48th year, the Winter Beach Run is the second oldest running event in the Jacksonville area, and for good reason. Few races anywhere offer the chance to run on firmly packed sand at low tide, with the Atlantic Ocean as a constant companion. The 10-mile course unfolds on the beach, where the footing is surprisingly good—organizers time the start with low tide to ensure a firm, fast surface. The 5K option draws families and newcomers, making this a true community affair.
The atmosphere is low-key and welcoming, with a strong local flavor from host club JTC Running and title sponsor 1st Place Sports. Spectators are sparse along the beach itself, but the energy picks up at the start and finish lines. Runners rave about the unique experience of pounding the sand while waves crash nearby, and the long-sleeve moisture-wicking shirts and finisher medals are quality touches.
Post-race, a cup of hot chocolate warms chilled fingers—typical February lows hover around 43°F with a brisk 13 mph wind. Awards go deep in age groups, and the 10-mile serves as a Jacksonville Grand Prix event, adding competitive edge. For a race that's been a winter tradition since 1976, the Winter Beach Run remains a hidden gem worth traveling for.
Race-provided description
About this Race The Winter Beach Run in the second oldest running event in the Jacksonville area. From its beginning in 1976, the race has been very popular with runners and walkers because running on the beach is relatively unique to the world. The race is held on the firmly packed sand on the beach.
Our Title Sponsor:
Race Features Medals to all 10 mile and 5K finishers Long-sleeve Moisture wicking shirts to all entrants Hot Chocolate after the race 5K and 10 mile overall and age-group awards 10 mile is a Jacksonville Grand Prix Event (5K for children 13 and under) The run/walk is held on firmly packed sand near low tide to avoid soft and loose sand creating very good running conditions. Jacksonville is one of the few major cities in the USA that can stage races on the beach. Join JTC Running and 1st Place Sports for this outstanding event!
About JTC Running JTC RUNNING, North Florida’s premier track club, has been “Running Jacksonville since 1975! As the host organization of
Logistics
Race Day
around January 2027 (expected)
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
Jacksonville Beach, FL
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Coastal
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
limited extras
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 70°F
Frequently asked
When is the 2027 Winter Beach Run?
The 2027 Winter Beach Run hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around January 2027 (expected).
Where does the 2027 Winter Beach Run take place?
It takes place in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.
What distances does the 2027 Winter Beach Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2027 Winter Beach Run course flat and good for a PR?
The 2027 Winter Beach Run is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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