Boardwalk Fun Run
1K and 5K
Saturday, March 6, 2027
You crushed it! Thanks for making the 2026 Boardwalk Fun Run a successful event.
Check back soon for 2027 race information!
Boardwalk Fun Run
Swap out your flip flops for running shoes and join the fun with this family-friendly race through the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk!
1K- Ages 12 and Under
5K- Ages 4 and Up
2026 Race Photos and Results
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be an experienced runner to participate?
This is a non-competitive race that you can experience with friends and family. Every finisher gets a medal! Run, jog, or walk along the course.
Will there be on-site registrations on the day of the event?
No, all participants must be pre-registered online. Deadline to register is March 27, 2026.
What are the categories and prizes for the top finishers?
1K- Every finisher gets a medal PLUS top finishers from each category get $25 MyBoardwalk card.
| Top Male | Top Female |
| Ages 0-4 | Ages 0-4 |
| Ages 5-6 | Ages 5-6 |
| Ages 7-8 | Ages 7-8 |
| Ages 9-10 | Ages 9-10 |
| Ages 11-12 | Ages 11-12 |
5K- Every finisher gets a medal PLUS top finishers from each category get two Boardwalk Ride Wristbands.
| Top Male | Top Female |
| Ages 4-6 | Ages 4-6 |
| Ages 7-9 | Ages 7-9 |
| Ages 10-14 | Ages 10-14 |
| Ages 15-19 | Ages 15-19 |
| Ages 20-24 | Ages 20-24 |
| Ages 25-29 | Ages 25-29 |
| Ages 30-34 | Ages 30-34 |
| Ages 35-39 | Ages 35-39 |
| Ages 40-44 | Ages 40-44 |
| Ages 45-49 | Ages 45-49 |
| Ages 50-54 | Ages 50-54 |
| Ages 55-59 | Ages 55-59 |
| Ages 60-64 | Ages 60-64 |
| Ages 65+ | Ages 65+ |
How do the I identify as non-binary. Can I participate without selecting a gender when registering?work?
Yes, we are happy to offer the option to register as non-binary through RunSignUp.com. Please note, there will be no awards in the non-binary category. If you identify as non-binary, but would like to compete for place awards we ask that you sign up for your birth gender pool.
Can my family or friend pick-up my bib?
Yes, family members or friends are allowed to pick up your bib. Staff will need to know the type of race (1k or 5k) and First/Last name you registered as.
My child is running in the 1K, can I run along with them?
Yes, you are allowed to run beside your child in the 1k without registering. Only runners age 2-12 need to register for the 1k. A chaperone may enter the arcade with the runner in order to help them use their MyBoardwalk Card for Arcade play.
Where do I park?
Parking is available in the Boardwalk’s various parking lots for $25. Street parking is also available. Pickup your race bib on Friday, 3/27 to receive a $15 off parking voucher for race day!
Where is the starting line?
Starting line is at the Boardwalk Main entrance.
Can I get a discount for Boardwalk rides if I participate?
Yes, stick around and enjoy the park! Once you register you will be given a discount code for $10 off the gate price for a Ride Wristband on race day.
Can I run with a stroller?
Yes, strollers are allowed.
Is the run timed?
Yes, we are pleased to offer BibChip timing with a shotgun start.
What is the cancellation and transfer policy?loses their card?
The event will be held rain or shine. Sorry, we cannot issue refunds. Registrations are non-transferable to another person.
Who is this year's charity?
This year a portion of the proceeds will benefit Nueva Vista Community Youth Center.
Can my animal run with me?
No, for the safety of all participants, we do not allow animals at our race.
Thank You to Our Sponsors