OCNJ Half Marathon
OCNJ Half Marathon: a flat, fast beachside race on the Jersey Shore boardwalk.
Race Date
Oct 4, 2026
Location
Ocean City, NJ
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, October 4, 2026
- Location
- Ocean City, New Jersey
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
The Experience
The OCNJ Half Marathon takes runners through the classic Jersey Shore town of Ocean City, where the Atlantic breeze and boardwalk set the scene for a fast, flat race. Now in its 15th edition, the event has grown to nearly 2,400 finishers, drawing participants from 36 states and boasting a loyal 21% repeat rate.
The course is pancake-flat, tracing the island's streets and boardwalk – perfect for chasing a PR or a Boston qualifier. The typical winning time of 1:16:44 reflects a competitive field, but the easy terrain and forgiving conditions make it equally welcoming for first-timers. Expect plenty of local support as the community turns out to cheer along the route.
After crossing the finish, runners receive a commemorative T-shirt and can soak in the boardwalk atmosphere. Ocean City's beaches and family-friendly vibe make it a natural destination weekend, with the race serving as the centerpiece of a seaside getaway.
Race-provided description
I Want To
Apply For
Beach Wedding Permit Application
Boardwalk Entertainer Permit
Boat Ramp Pass
Catamaran Permit
Dog Park Pass
Employment
Overnight Parking Permit (https://www.ocnj.us/media/KnightBuilding/Parking/AirportLandsideParkingPermitForm2023.pdf)
Use of City Facility
Volunteering on City Board
Buy
Beach Tags (https://ocnj.myshopify.com)
Show Tickets
Veteran Banners
Contact
A City Department
City Council
Mayor
Check
Tide and Flood Level Predictions
File
Open Public Records Act Requests
column break
Pay For
Aquatic & Fitness Center Membership (https://ocnj.recdesk.com/Community/Membership)
Parking Ticket (http://www.njmcdirect.com/)
Taxes
Learn About
Affordable Housing
Capital Projects
CDBG Grant Program
City Surplus Auctions
COVID-19
Dedication and Memorial Programs
Dog Park
Economic Development Recommendations
Handicapped Accessibility
NJ Plastic Bag Ban
OCNJ CARE (http://www.ocnjcare.org/)
Offshore Wind Project
Parking
Schools in Ocea
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, October 4, 2026
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
Ocean City Music Pier, Ocean City, NJ, 08226
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Coastal
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Quality Score
Standout7915 years running
~1,926 finishers a year
growing or steady
21% returning runners
6 timing sources
runners from 36 states
winner 1:16:44
typical high 73°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
59°
Afternoon (High)
71°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
13 mph
Wind
79%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the OCNJ Half Marathon?
The OCNJ Half Marathon is held on Sunday, October 4, 2026.
Where does the OCNJ Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in Ocean City, New Jersey.
What distances does the OCNJ Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the OCNJ Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The OCNJ Half Marathon is a rolling hills, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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