Lace up for the scenic Half Marathon-by-the-Sea on Sunday, September 13, 2026, in the charming coastal town of Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA. This well-organized 13.1-mile event, hosted by YuKan Sports, LLC, promises a beautiful and engaging race experience. The course is largely flat and fast, with some gentle rolling hills, making it an excellent opportunity for a personal best. Runners will enjoy a diverse landscape, winding through Manchester-by-the-Sea's historic downtown, past picturesque harbor views, and alongside the serene freshwater lakes in nearby Hamilton, MA. While offering stunning vistas, prepare for a short, approximately quarter-mile, section of unpaved or gravel road. Roads remain open to traffic, with local police monitoring and runners advised to stay to the side.

Typical race day conditions in mid-September feature pleasant temperatures, with highs around 74°F and lows around 55°F, and only a 12% chance of precipitation, creating a comfortable running environment. Six aid stations are strategically placed along the course at miles 1, 3, 5, 7.5, 9.5, and 11.5, offering both water and Gatorade to keep you hydrated. Portable restrooms are also available near miles 3.5 and 9. This race is renowned for its low-key, fun atmosphere, with many runners praising its organization and fast course.

The race kicks off at 9:00 AM EDT from Manchester-Essex High School, which also serves as the finish line. Participants receive a finisher medal, a choice of race shirt, and an armband phone holder, among other perks. The post-race celebration includes water, energy bars, bananas, delicious cider donuts, chocolate chip cookies, and non-alcoholic beer. Free race photos and GPS runner tracking further enhance the experience, ensuring you can relive your seaside journey.