OceanFest 5K
Kick off OceanFest 2026 with a low-impact, high-fun 5K in beautiful Surf City! 🌊
With a limited field of just 150 participants, this beach run offers a simple, laid-back race experience along the shoreline. Take in the ocean views, enjoy the fresh air, and be part of an event that supports a cleaner, healthier coast.
This isn’t just a race—it’s a celebration of the coast we love, with thoughtful touches to reduce waste and honor the environment:
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🌱 Plantable race bibs – After the race, plant your bib and watch wildflowers grow
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⏱️ Manual timing – No disposable timing chips, keeping extra waste out of landfills
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💧 Bring your own bottle – Refill at our water station or enjoy Open Water offerings on course and post-race
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📲 Paperless registration – No forms, no clutter, just a streamlined check-in
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👟 Shoes optional – Feel the sand beneath your feet and reconnect with nature
Thursday, April 30
Packet PickUp and Kick Off Party
High Tides and Good Vibes
13971 NC Hwy 50 Surf City, NC 28445
3:00PM - 6:00 PM
Saturday, May 2
Race Day
100 North Shore Drive - Beach Access
7:00 AM - 7:45 AM - LAST CHANCE Packet Pick Up
7:45 AM - Packet Pick Up Closes
8:00 AM - Race Start
Parking
You are encouraged to walk or bike to OceanFest! Surf City Parking is available in the area. Please note paid parking begins at 9AM.
Awards
Although we’ll recognize the top 3 male and female finishers, the heart of the OceanFest 5K is simply to walk or run and enjoy a morning on the beach celebrating the ocean we love.
After you finish, stick around and take in the rest of OceanFest—surf competition, yoga on the beach, and live music throughout the day.
In keeping with the laid-back vibe and low-impact mission of OceanFest, this event will be manually timed.
