5K races near Grover Beach

The City to the Sea Run, presented by Running Warehouse, offers a point-to-point half marathon and the Avila-Seaside 5K on California’s Central Coast. The half marathon begins in downtown San Luis Obispo, heading west toward Avila Beach. The 5K starts later, a shorter out-and-back race situated near the coast. The half marathon route transitions from city streets to country roads, incorporates the Bob Jones Trail, and concludes by the Pacific Ocean in Avila Beach. The 5K route provides beach, harbor, and ocean vistas for much of its length, briefly utilizes the Bob Jones Trail, and finishes at Avila Beach Resort. The San Luis Distance Club organizes the event, which returned with a new finishing area after a year’s absence. Along the 5K, participants might see sea lions, otters, or whales by the water.

The Beer City Half is a California race series focused on running and beer, with events in Alameda, San Ramon’s Bishop Ranch, Santa Ana, Sacramento, and San Jose. Each event offers the standard half marathon, 10K, and 5K distances, suitable for runners targeting a longer race or those preferring a shorter run within the same event atmosphere. The series accommodates individuals accompanying runners but not participating in a full race. Each location features a Beer Stroll for less active family and friends, and the Beat the Beast Beer Mile. In this latter event, participants consume four beers while racing the Beer City mascot. Those interested in multiple events can purchase multi-race bundles, such as the three-race “Day Drinker” or the four-race “Growler” options.

The Cayucos Turkey Trot is a Thanksgiving morning 5K fun run and walk. It starts and finishes at Cayucos Pier on California's Central Coast. This event is designed for families, not competitive racing. Dogs, strollers, and children on scooters are permitted. The run begins at 8:30 a.m. Pacific time, following early race-day check-in. The course follows Pacific Avenue, with the pier acting as the central point for bib pickup and the race start/finish. Participants receive a bib number and Thanksgiving-themed running socks, subject to availability. The event is also known as the Larry Gaeta Memorial Run. Proceeds are divided equally between Cayucos Elementary School and the California Association of Highway Patrolman Widows & Orphans' Trust Fund.