Santa to the Sea
Join thousands of runners and spectators for Ventura County’s most spirited seasonal race
A Holiday Race with a Purpose
Run with Meaning
Santa to the Sea is a can’t miss event for the holiday-athletic enthusiast. Whether you’re in it for the fresh air or to contribute to charity, Santa to the Sea is just as happy to have you. The festive multi-race format makes it easy for runners of all experience levels to participate. The race began in 2003 as a toy drive and community fundraiser and has since grown into a major regional race. Since then Santa to the Sea has come to be considered a holiday fitness tradition in Ventura County as well as another community-driven experience. The mission is to support scholarships and community programs.
Race Options for Every Runner
Whether you're chasing a personal best or just showing up for the holiday fun, there’s a race for you. Santa to the Sea makes it easy for runners of all levels to join in.
A Course for Every Level
The unique setup of the race allows multiple levels of runners to participate no matter the experience level. There are four core race options:
- Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
- Quarter Marathon (6.55 miles)
- 5K Run/Walk (3.1 miles)
- Kids 1K Fun Run
Due to this layout, the events attract both experienced runners and first-time runner participants. As a charity and a holiday themed event, it’s important to that community that the event remains light-hearted and holiday spirited. The kids run is a non-competitive event for kids 3 years old and up.
Registration includes race necessities and fun freebies! It includes a finisher’s medal, official race bib, professional timing chip, race route, post race pancake breakfast, and tech fabric Santa to the Sea t-shirt!
From Santa to the Sea
The course is flat, fast and festive, making it ideal for both first-time runners and those chasing a personal best. Holiday costumes are encouraged, adding to the energy along the route.
From Highway 101 to the Harbor Finish
There are varying routes for the race depending on the race length runners choose. The half marathon will begin near the giant Santa Claus statue along Highway 101. From there the race travels along a scenic and festive route navigating through agricultural landscapes and strawberry fields. From there the race will continue into Oxnard’s downtown district and the heart of the city. Some of the downtown scenes include Candy Cane Lane and Plaza Park. The latter is where those running the Quarter Marathon will join the race. Traveling in the direction of the coast, the race will finish at Channel Islands Harbor at the Marine Emporium Landing with a celebration with a harborside festival.
Running for a Cause
Santa to the Sea is more than a race—it’s a community-driven effort that gives back year after year. Every step helps support local families and students across Ventura County.
Supporting Local Families
Proceeds from Santa to the Sea fund one of the region’s largest holiday toy drives, providing gifts to more than 3,000 children each year. Through race participation, donations and community support, the event helps ensure families across Ventura County can experience the joy of the season.
The race also supports scholarships for students attending Oxnard College through its partnership with the Oxnard College Foundation. Each year, hundreds of thousands of dollars are raised to help students continue their education, making a lasting impact that extends well beyond race day.
Celebrate by the Sea
Crossing the finish line is just the beginning of the celebration. The Finish Line Expo keeps the energy going with food, music and holiday festivities by the water.
Food, Music & Family Fun
At Channel Islands Harbor, runners and spectators gather for a lively post-race celebration filled with seaside holiday cheer. Food vendors and food trucks serve up both festive treats and refueling favorites, while live entertainment keeps the atmosphere upbeat. Kids can enjoy their own activities after their race, making the expo a full family experience from start to finish.
Celebrate, Capture & Compete
Be sure to take advantage of holiday-themed photo opportunities and snap pictures with festively dressed runners you met along the course. The celebration also includes a costume contest, with awards based on originality, enthusiasm and even how difficult the outfit was to run in. Prizes are awarded at $200 for first place, $100 for second and $50 for third. Results are posted online—so share your photos, tag @Santatothesea and use #STTSCostumeContest for a chance to be featured on the official Santa to the Sea website.
Race Day Highlights
Race day kicks off early and keeps the momentum going through a full morning of events. From shuttles to start times, everything is timed to keep runners moving smoothly.
Start Times, Shuttles & What to Expect
Most years, the Santa to the Sea race takes place on the second Sunday of December. The race shuttle will take runners to correct drop offs prior to the race.
- 5:45am Shuttles begin taking both Half Marathoners and Quarter Marathon runners to the starting line.
- 6:45am Final shuttle departs Palms Shopping Center
- 9:00am-1:00pm Return shuttles from the finish line run
The race start times are as follows:
- 7:30am The Half Marathon and 5K Race begins
- 7:40am The Quarter Marathon begins
- 8:30am Kids Race begins
Most runners finish by late morning when the Finish Line Expo begins. By noon, the last place is expected to cross the finish line and join the festival.
Cheering on the Runners
You don’t have to run to be part of the experience. Spectators help bring the energy that makes this event feel like a citywide celebration.
Where to Watch the Race
Even if you aren’t participating, race day offers a festive atmosphere worth showing up for—ugly Christmas sweater encouraged. Spectators line the route each year, creating a welcoming environment as runners pass through scenic stretches of Oxnard. Popular viewing spots include Downtown Oxnard and Channel Islands Harbor, where the energy builds as runners approach the finish.
Join the Energy Beyond the Course
There’s more to experience than just the race itself. Live music pops up along parts of the route and continues at the Finish Line Expo, while cheer squads help keep the momentum going. If you want to be more involved but aren’t running, volunteering is a great way to participate—visit the Santa to the Sea website to sign up and support the event.
Plan Your Race Day
A little planning goes a long way on race day. Knowing where to go and when to arrive helps you make the most of the experience.
Location
Stay in Oxnard the night before the race! The race starts early and we know how important it is to you to be rested to perform your best. Stay in Oxnard and take an Uber to the race to avoid parking traffic near the start and finish lines.
Santa to the Sea takes place around Oxnard and connects multiple areas of the city. From Downtown to the Channel Islands Harbor, there is so much to witness during the race. For race routing, visit the organizers website or check this year's calendar of events.
Parking
Take advantage of designated race parking areas for ease of navigation. Additionally, there will be shuttle transportation available to runners and race participants. Refer to the information packet for pickup and dropoff spots.
Arrival Tips
If you are a race participant, refer to your race packet for information on times to arrive. Arrive early to avoid road closures in preparation for the race. Traffic may be increased around the race due to excitement and road closures. If you are spectating, historically the best places to view the race are along the route in Downtown Oxnard and towards the finish at the Finish Line Expo.
Refuel After the Race
Grab a meal after the race to refuel and celebrate your accomplishment! Post-race meal suggestions for wherever you're staying in Oxnard.
Channel Islands Harbor
Restaurants near the Channel Islands Harbor offer great seafood options. Sea Fresh is at the stunning Marine Emporium Landing. Try fried clams, oysters on the half shell or clam linguine. Breakfast is also served so come any time of day try to experience fresh seafood.
Downtown Oxnard
Head to Downtown Oxnard for authentic Mexican spots and family owned favorites. Cabo Seafood Grill & Cantina or Otani’s Fish Market for seafood in the heart of downtown. BG’s Cafe has stellar breakfast, brunch and lunch and has healthy portions, perfect for re-fueling post-race.
The Collection at RiverPark
The Collection at RiverPark, just a short drive from the harbor and downtown, offers a centralized dining and entertainment experience. It’s a great option if you’re looking to continue your day beyond the immediate race area. Grab bold flavors at Gordo’s Hot Chicken, enjoy a casual slice at Pizzaman Dan or sit down for authentic Neapolitan-style pizza at Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana. For something more relaxed, Immigrant Son Caffé is a comfortable spot for coffee, pastries or a light bite.
Turn Race Weekend into a Coastal Getaway
Make the most of race weekend by staying nearby and turning your visit into a full holiday getaway. From early start times to post-race festivities, having a place close by makes the day easier and more enjoyable.
Stay Close to the Finish Line
Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor offers spacious rooms overlooking the marina, just minutes from the race finish. Its location makes it easy to head straight from the course to a relaxed afternoon by the water or continue the experience with a visit toward the Channel Islands.
Easy Access to the Start & Downtown
Best Western Oxnard Inn, located just off US 101, provides convenient access across the race route. Staying in Downtown Oxnard also puts you within walking distance of holiday highlights like Christmas Tree Lane and Heritage Square.
Looking for additional options? Browse the Places to Stay page to find accommodations across Oxnard that fit your plans, whether you want to be near the harbor, downtown or other parts of the city.
A Race with Lasting Impact
Santa to the Sea stands out as one of Oxnard’s most unique holiday traditions, blending fitness, community and celebration into one unforgettable experience. Whether you’re running the course, cheering from the sidelines or joining the finish line festivities, the event brings people together in a way that feels both energizing and meaningful. Beyond the miles, it’s the charitable impact, shared holiday spirit and sense of community that keep participants coming back year after year. Join in, be part of the tradition and experience how Oxnard turns race day into something bigger than the run itself.