The HEART RUN takes place on Valentine's Day weekend at Bolsa Chica State Beach in Huntington Beach, California, with the main entrance on Pacific Coast Highway. Participants can select a half marathon, 10K, or 5K, and there is also a Kid's Dash for families. The half marathon begins first in the morning, followed by the kids' race and then a combined 5K and 10K start.
The course is flat and fast, suitable for runners aiming for a personal best as well as walkers who prefer a beach-park environment without significant elevation changes. The event incorporates the holiday theme with a February festival expo and a Valentine Card Station. All finishers receive a custom medal with a ribbon corresponding to their distance, and half marathon finishers also get a long-sleeve finisher hoodie. Parking requires consideration: the state park charges per vehicle, the gate accepts no cash, carpooling is advised, and a limited amount of free parking is offered in nearby Sunset Beach for those willing to walk in.