- Sunday, October 18, 2026
- Newport Beach, California
42nd Edition
Half Marathon • 5K • 1 Mile
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Newport Beach, California
A coastal running weekend in Newport Beach, California for every runner, featuring a brand-new Half Marathon through Upper Newport Bay, alongside 5K and 1 Mile community races.
Newport Mesa Spirit Run brings together running, walking, and family-friendly racing across one of the most scenic coastal environments in Orange County, Upper Newport Bay.
Now in its 42nd year, this iconic Newport Beach running event continues to grow as a community festival that celebrates health, connection, and coastal beauty.
Experience the NEW Spirit Run with the first Half Marathon course through Upper Newport Bay in more than 20 years, alongside the traditional 5K and 1 Mile races for adults, kids, and families.
The Youth & Fitness Expo will take place at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, located next to the beach and bay.
As a race set within a protected coastal environment, the Spirit Run is committed to sustainability, introducing greener race practices that help reduce waste and protect the natural beauty of Newport Bay.
Across one race weekend, multiple distances create something for everyone, from first-time walkers and family fun runs to a brand-new Half Marathon through Upper Newport Bay.
Bring your friends, bring your family, and choose your challenge in one of Orange County’s most scenic running locations.
The newest headline distance for Spirit Run. A flat, scenic coastal half marathon through Upper Newport Bay, designed for experienced runners chasing a unique race experience in Orange County.
A fast, accessible 5K race for runners of all levels. Perfect for first-timers, local runners, and anyone looking to enjoy a scenic OC, Newport Beach running course with strong community energy.
Take in the views at your own pace. A relaxed, family-friendly 5K walk through Upper Newport Bay, ideal for walkers who want to experience one of the most beautiful coastal environments in Orange County.
Short, sharp, and fun. Ideal for families, younger runners, and anyone looking for a quick challenge with big race-day energy.
Take on both events across the weekend. Perfect for competitive runners and families wanting to maximise their race experience.
A fun first race experience for the youngest participants. Safe, exciting, and designed to introduce kids to the Spirit Run atmosphere.
This is more than a run, it’s a OC | Newport Beach community coastal running experience.
Learn about Spirit Run’s beneficiaries and how your school or youth sports program can join them.
Rock climbing wall, bumper cars, and more for kids. Shopping, health and fitness experts, massage, and more for adults. Live music, finish line food, food truck, and more for all.
Spirit Run is excited about its new location and race courses including a half marathon! Race courses traverse Newport’s Upper Newport Bay and start and end at the Dunes.
Spirit Run appreciates the trust California Fish and Wildlife, Orange County Parks, and the City of Newport Beach have placed in us and our participants by allowing us to race in this environmentally protected area. Spirit Run understands that plastic bottles, gu wrappers, and other waste left along the course would be an environmental burden. Accordingly, we will be introducing “green” measures to minimize waste and to provide participants tips for running and walking in the most environmentally friendly manner possible. Stay tuned for details.
Steve Scott is an Olympian with the world record for running the most sub-4 minute miles (137 times). He attends Spirit Run every year to pump you up before your race and to distribute awards to race winners.