The America’s Finest City Half Marathon & 5K is more than a race—it’s a complete San Diego experience. From epic views and historic landmarks to a well-organized finish line celebration, every detail is designed to help you finish strong and soak in the city’s summer charm. Here are just a few reasons to secure your spot for this iconic event:
1. Experience San Diego’s Scenic Beauty—Including Access to Cabrillo National Monument
This course isn’t just scenic. It’s stunning. Whether you’re running the 5K through leafy Balboa Park or the point-to-point half marathon starting at Cabrillo National Monument, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
Half marathon runners enjoy rare early-morning access to Cabrillo National Monument at the very tip of Point Loma. With sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, San Diego skyline, and Coronado Islands, it’s a breathtaking (and exclusive) start line you won’t want to miss.
From there, the half marathon winds along San Diego Bay, onto Harbor Island, along the Embarcadero, and through downtown San Diego before finishing in Balboa Park. It’s one of the most scenic courses in the country—and one you’ll never forget.
2. The Ultimate Convenience: Our Host Hotel
Make your race weekend easy by staying at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, the official AFC host hotel. This bayside resort is located just minutes from the airport and race expo, and offers beautiful views, spacious rooms, and everything you need for a relaxing pre- and post-race stay.
Sheraton Perks:
- Gorgeous views of San Diego Bay
- Walking access to the race expo
- Resort amenities like pools, restaurants, and marina paths
- Race-day transportation is included with your room reservation
One of the top reasons to stay at the Sheraton? Event-day transportation is covered—no need to worry about parking or logistics in the early hours of race morning.
3. Everything You Need is Included
Whether you’re running the 5K or the half, your entry comes with some great perks:
- A technical-fabric short-sleeve race shirt
- On-course support stations
- A beautiful finisher medal
- A souvenir reusable grocery bag
- A finish line food bag packed with snacks from @welchsfruitsnacks, @cure hydration, @partnerscrackers, @jimbosnaturally, @hollandiadairy, and @perfectsnacks
- A one-day pass to the Carlsbad Columbia Sportswear Employee Store
- Complimentary beer in the Beer Garden (21+ with ID)
4. You’ll Have Fun at the Finish Line Festival
Once you cross the finish line in Balboa Park, the fun continues! The Finish Line Festival is the perfect place to recover, celebrate, and connect with fellow runners.
Festivities include:
- DJ Laiq’s epic beats – he always keeps the energy going
- Shady lawn space for relaxing with friends and family
- A complimentary beer (21+)
- Great photo ops and reunions with spectators
The 5K start and finish also take place here—making it an ideal meetup spot for friends and family cheering you on.
5. Earn the 2025 San Diego Foundation SoCal Triple Crown
The America’s Finest City Half Marathon & 5K is the final race in the San Diego Foundation’s SoCal Triple Crown Series. If you’ve already completed Carlsbad and GOVX San Diego, AFC is your final step toward earning the crown!
To qualify, run any distance at all three events in the same calendar year:
- Carlsbad Marathon, Half, 5K, or Double Down
- GOVX San Diego Half or 5K
- America’s Finest City Half or 5K
Complete all three and you’ll earn:
- A bonus Triple Crown medal
- Major bragging rights
- Entrance to the exclusive Triple Crown area at the Finish Line Festival
If you’ve completed the Triple Crown for consecutive years, you’ll also receive a special Streaker medal accessory to mark your ongoing achievement.
Excited to run this epic race?! Register today!
Whether you’re chasing a PR, finishing your Triple Crown, or just here for the views and vibes, the America’s Finest City Half Marathon & 5K is a can’t-miss San Diego tradition.
Don’t miss your chance to experience one of the most scenic and rewarding races in California. Register Now