With ocean front views this race is always a winner. I love this race and add it to my calendar every year. It is part of the LA marathon Conqur Challenge so it draws a big crowd of athletes, but It still has that hometown feel. Starting in the park, running out and back along Ocean Ave then ending at the Santa Monica Pier, it’s one of the best 5ks in LA.

Pros:
Fast course with plenty of room for loads of runners
Great view
Nice medal & race shirt
Tons of port-o-potties at the start
Post race party on the pier is a blast (you even get a bag of veggies/fruit)
Great race to cheer other runners since it’s an out and back course

Cons:
Parking near the start is difficult. Parking near the finish is better, just to allow plenty of time to walk to the start.
Not alot of crowd support.
Expo is more like a neighborhood health fair and is challenging to park for. (Come early and pick up your packet on race day)

If you live in the LA area I can’t recommend this one enough.