The ASICS Los Angeles Marathon is one of America's most scenic urban marathons, featuring the famous "Stadium to the Sea" point-to-point course. Unlike many big-city marathons, LA does not use a lottery or ballot. Registration is first-come, first-served. This makes it an accessible choice for runners who want a guaranteed major city marathon experience.
Key Dates
- Race Day: Mar 7, 2027
- Registration Window: Open year-round
For official updates, head to the LA Marathon website.
How to Enter
1. General Registration (FCFS)
Register on the official website. Tiered pricing, so earlier is cheaper (typically starting around $179-$200+). No qualifying time needed.
2. Charity Entries
Several charity partners offer entries with fundraising commitments.
3. Running Clubs & Group Entries
Many local running clubs and training programs include LA Marathon entry as part of their membership. Groups like Students Run LA (SRLA) also organize large teams. Check with LA-area running clubs for group discount codes.
The Course
The famous "Stadium to the Sea" point-to-point course starts at Dodger Stadium and finishes near the Santa Monica Pier on Ocean Avenue. At 26.2 miles, you run through some of LA's most iconic neighborhoods:
- Miles 1-5: Dodger Stadium through Echo Park and Silver Lake, with early hills.
- Miles 5-10: Hollywood Boulevard past the Walk of Fame and the Capitol Records Building.
- Miles 10-16: West Hollywood and Beverly Hills along the Sunset Strip.
- Miles 16-20: Through Century City and into Westwood, past UCLA.
- Miles 20-26.2: Down San Vicente Boulevard into Brentwood and Santa Monica to the Pier finish.
The course is not flat. The first half includes several hills through Silver Lake and Hollywood, with a notable climb around mile 8. The second half is gentler with a gradual descent toward the coast. Total elevation gain is approximately 250 meters (820 feet).
Race Day Tips
- Start early: The race starts around 6:30 AM. Shuttles to Dodger Stadium depart as early as 4:00 AM from Union Station.
- Sun protection: Even in March, the LA sun is strong. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Shade is limited on much of the course.
- Hydration: Aid stations are roughly every 2 miles. Temperatures can climb above 20°C (68°F) by mid-morning.
- Point-to-point logistics: Your bag is transported from start to finish. Leave warm clothes for before the start.
History & Key Facts
First run in 1986, the LA Marathon has gone through several course changes. The current "Stadium to the Sea" route debuted in 2010 and is widely considered one of the most scenic urban marathon courses in the world. The race typically draws around 25,000 runners.
The time limit is 6 hours and 30 minutes. March weather in LA is typically mild (12-20°C / 54-68°F), though the course has limited shade and temperatures can climb by late morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the LA Marathon sell out?
It can. The race caps at approximately 25,000 runners and popular price tiers sell out months in advance. Early registration gets the best price.
Can I get a refund or transfer?
No. The LA Marathon has a strict no-refund, no-transfer policy. Make sure you're committed before registering.
How do I get to the start at Dodger Stadium?
Free shuttle buses run from Union Station to Dodger Stadium starting around 4:00 AM on race day. No personal vehicles are allowed at the start.
Is the course hilly?
The first half has several hills, particularly through Silver Lake and Hollywood (notably around mile 8). The second half is mostly flat to downhill toward Santa Monica. Total elevation gain is about 250m (820 ft).
What's the time limit?
The time limit is 6 hours and 30 minutes. Runners who fall behind pace may be moved to the sidewalk but are allowed to continue.
Related Races
Mumbai Marathon
Registration
India's largest marathon
Seville Marathon
Registration
Fastest & cheapest in Europe
Amsterdam Marathon
Registration
Europe's flattest and fastest course
Looking Ahead
If registration for the current edition is sold out, the next edition typically opens in spring. Since it's first-come, first-served, registering early gets the best price.