From a beautiful start in quaint Ojai, California to the stunning finish along the Pacific Ocean, this is a fantastic destination race. The first 7 miles loop around the lovely town of Ojai where orange groves are on your right and mountains to your left. The course has a net downhill so train accordingly. The elevation loss is noticeable but not destroy your legs noticeable. The course takes you on bike paths which are lovely and still scenic. I tried to stay out of a pace group because I do not like them when you have a wide road let alone a path. It worked well for me staying out of a pace group. I loved the course from start to finish. With a field of less than 2000 full marathoners it it perfect for those that like smaller crowds yet having large crowd amenities. The half marathon and full merge and the finish line is narrow so there are a lot of people in your finish pictures. The photos are free which is a nice perk. I cannot comment on any post race activity as I left to go back to the hotel after finishing. I am not one to hang around post race. The race gives you very clear pre-race directions! Follow them! There is great communication from the staff and organizers. The medals are unique and well made but are the same for the half and the full (just the ribbon is different). This does not matter to me one bit but I know some people prefer the difference distances have different medals.
Summary-- beautiful destination race with a potential for a fast course
lovely scenery
well organized
great medals
free photos
fantastic course
LOVED IT!!