The OCNJ Half Marathon incorporates the Boardwalk in the course. (Photos courtesy of Ocean City)
The runners have spoken, and Ocean City's half marathon has been named the top half marathon in New Jersey.
RaceRaves, the nation’s premier online race finder and reviews community for runners and endurance athletes, announced the winners of its 2026 “Runners Choice: Best Half Marathons in the U.S.” poll on Thursday.
The top half marathon in each state was crowned based on nearly 20,000 votes from runners across the country, according to an Ocean City news release.
The OCNJ Half Marathon showcases “America’s Greatest Family Resort” with strong community support, “fabulous ocean views,” and “probably the most water stops ever,” according to race finishers.
Course highlights include the Ocean City-Longport Bridge crossing (twice) along with several miles on the Boardwalk.
“The Half Marathon has become a great fall tradition in Ocean City,” Mayor Jay Gillian said. “The runners and their families get to enjoy Ocean City at its best, and the race grows bigger and better every year.”
The 16th annual OCNJ Half Marathon is scheduled for Oct. 4, 2026, and also includes a 10-mile run/walk and a 5-kilometer event.
All proceeds benefit Ocean City Recreation Scholarships and Programs. Registration is open now at ocnj.us/race-events.
Runners cross the Ocean City-Longport Bridge twice during the OCNJ Half Marathon.
