IRONMAN Oceanside 70.3 is back for 2026, and it’s brewing excitement among triathletes worldwide.
This iconic race kicks off the North American triathlon season with a world-class field of pros and age-groupers ready to compete along the stunning Southern California coast. Whether you're a spectator or a racer, it's well worth a trip to lovely Oceanside.
Oceanside offers far more than just a race course—it’s a destination that deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. This coastal gem, which sits perfectly between San Diego and Los Angeles, boasts a laid-back surf town charm, the famous Oceanside Pier, and miles of pristine Pacific Ocean beaches.
Whether you’re toeing the start line or cheering on your favorite athletes, you’ll find palm-lined streets, incredible restaurants, and that unmistakable California sunshine waiting for you.
Planning to make a weekend of it? Book one of our vacation rentals and stay steps from the action. Our properties put you close to the harbor, the Strand, and all the race-day excitement.
Let's dig into all the details of the Athletic Brewing IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside.
IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside 2026 at a Glance
Photo Credit: Maridav
Here are some key facts about the IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside in 2026:
- Race Date: March 28, 2026
- Location: Oceanside, CA
- Distance: 70.3 miles (1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike, 13.1-mile run)
- Start Time: Approximately 6:30 AM
- Spectator Cost: Free
- Event Sponsor: Athletic Brewing
The 2026 edition of this lively race promises another unforgettable day of competition. It is part of the IRONMAN Pro Series, a set of global event that draws elite professionals alongside thousands of determined amateur athletes from all around the world.
Registration
Online registration for participating in the race typically opens many months in advance through the official IRONMAN site. It has already sold out for 2026.
Spectators can watch the race for free along the entire course and at the finish line. There are no tickets or passes required.
Pre-Race Preparations
Athletes must complete a mandatory check-in at the Junior Seau Beach Community Center (300 S The Strand) the day or two before the race.
Bike check-in happens the day before, and athlete briefings are scheduled throughout race week.
Race Day Schedule
Note that the following timings are subject to change. Check the official IRONMAN website for up-to-date schedules.
- Transition opens at 4:45 AM for final bike and gear checks
- Pro race starts at 6:40 AM
- Physically challenged (PC) race starts at 6:46 AM
- Age group waves start from 6:50 AM to 7:40 AM
- The awards ceremony begins at 4:00 PM
How to Watch Live
For spectators in Oceanside, prime spots include the swim start at the harbor, the bike exit near transition, and multiple points along The Strand where you can catch athletes on the run. You might have to arrive early to secure a good spot.
Course Overview: Swim, Bike, and Run in Oceanside
The IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside course includes a protected harbor swim, a challenging bike through military base terrain, and a scenic run along the Pacific Ocean coastline. Here’s what athletes (and spectators) can expect from each leg.
Swim (1.2 miles)
Photo Credit: Pau Buera
The swim takes place in Oceanside Harbor, offering calmer conditions than the open ocean while still delivering that authentic Pacific Ocean experience. The swim is a single-loop, counter-clockwise course entirely within Oceanside Harbor, where water temperatures typically hover around 60°F–61°F, making it wetsuit-legal most years.
- Single-loop, counter-clockwise course starting at the boat ramp
- Rolling wave starts keep congestion manageable
- Key sighting landmarks include the harbor mouth and pier area
- Cut-off time is 1 hour and 10 minutes after the last athlete of your wave enters the water
Bike (56 miles)
Photo Credit: irabel8
The bike course is where this race earns its reputation. Athletes head out of Oceanside and through Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base. The bike course is a single-loop route featuring rolling hills and significant climbs, with a speed limit zone on the Basilone Road descent at mile 38.
- Gradual uphill gradient for the first 20 miles along Old Pacific Coast Highway
- No pre-race riding allowed on base roads due to security restrictions
- Critical 25 mph speed limit zone on the Basilone Road descent (around mile 38)—disqualification for violations, no exceptions
- Coastal winds can significantly affect pacing and equipment choices
Run (13.1 miles)
Photo Credit: Maridav
The two-loop run course finishes on the world-famous Strand, delivering ocean views and enthusiastic crowd support throughout. The run course follows the Pacific coastline and concludes at the Oceanside Pier.
- Out-and-back format along beachfront paths and coastal neighborhoods
- Despite ocean proximity, expect some sneaky hills that keep you honest
- Festive finish line atmosphere with palm trees and Pacific breezes
- Potentially warm conditions moderated by ocean air
History of the Athletic Brewing IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside
The original IRONMAN triathlon began life in the 1970s, but the 70.3 half-triathlon format was instituted in 2005. Oceanside kicks off the North American series of 70.3 races each year, and it has become a proving ground where strong professionals test their early-season fitness.
Pro men and women who have secured wins or high placings in the IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside include Lionel Sanders, Danielle Lewis, Paula Findlay, and Andy Potts.
The race regularly attracts leading talent like Ben Kanute, Tamara Jewett, and former IRONMAN World Champion Jan Frodeno, creating competition that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Planning Your Trip: Lodging, Travel, and Things to Do in Oceanside
Oceanside is the perfect “race-cation” destination, combining world-class triathlon with laid-back beach town vibes. Located in North County San Diego, this surf-friendly community offers easy access from both San Diego and Los Angeles, making it ideal for athletes and their support crews.
Lodging
Book your accommodations early—race weekend coincides with the spring break tourism season, and hotels fill up fast. Stay within walking distance or a short drive of the harbor, pier, or downtown Oceanside to simplify race morning logistics and avoid parking headaches.
Our vacation rentals offer the perfect home base for your IRONMAN experience. With properties near the Strand and downtown, you’ll have room to spread out, store your gear, and recover in comfort after crossing the finish line.
Travel and Logistics
The Primary Airport for Oceanside is San Diego International (SAN), which is approximately 45 minutes away. Alternative airports are John Wayne/Orange County (SNA) (50 minutes) or LAX (1.5 hours).
The event involves road closures, so parking nearby is limited. Athletes are designated parking spaces as long as they are staying beyond the harbor. Those staying near the harbor are within walking distance of the event and do not receive parking passes.
Spectator parking close to the finish line is unavailable due to road closures, but shuttle bus services are provided from multiple locations. Check the IRONMAN website for details.
Things to Do
There's plenty to do in Oceanside to make the most of your visit. Here are some highlights:
- Walk the iconic Oceanside Pier (one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast)
- Stroll or bike along The Strand beachfront
- Take a surfing lesson at one of the local surf schools
- Explore nearby attractions in Carlsbad, Encinitas, or La Jolla
- Enjoy family-friendly restaurants near downtown and the harbor
Stay With Us to Experience IRONMAN Oceanside 70.3
From the early-morning excitement at the harbor to the triumphant finishes on The Strand, IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside delivers an experience that keeps athletes and spectators coming back year after year.
Add in Oceanside’s beautiful beaches, incredible dining, and perfect California weather, and you’ve got all the ingredients for an unforgettable race weekend.
Make the most of your March trip by booking one of our vacation rentals. You’ll love having a comfortable home base just minutes from all the action. Whether you’re here to chase a PR or cheer your heart out, we can’t wait to host you in sunny Oceanside.
Featured Image Credit: Andrey Burmakin
