The Jersey Shore Half Marathon has a history that places it as one of the oldest distance events held in New Jersey and the surrounding area. The first Jersey Shore Marathon was held January 9, 1972. The Jersey Shore Marathon grew and became an outstanding road race in New Jersey with over 1,000 competitors. Many familiar names in marathoning and New Jersey road racing were all part of the Jersey Shore Marathon along with many runners who experienced their first marathon. The race, held in winter, was always tempting mother nature. The 1977 race was best remembered for being held during a driving snow storm that followed two days after the largest storm in several years which made for a snow covered route.
The growth of major fall marathons created a demand for quality half marathon distance races prior to the fall marathons and thus in1986 the Jersey Shore Marathon became the Jersey Shore Half Marathon, following the same Ocean Avenue course. Then in 2002 with the construction of the Lake Takanasee Bridge on Ocean Avenue the race move to Gateway National Park Sandy Hook returning to its original starting point. The course gives the runners the breath taking scenery of the New York Harbor and the Sandy Hook Lighthouse. The Jersey Shore Half Marathon continues a great racing tradition established thirty seven years ago.
From South, take the Garden State Parkway to exit 105 and follow Route 36 East to the Ocean. Make a left turn on Ocean Avenue to Gateway National Park, Sandy Hook. From North, take the Garden State Parkway to exit 117 to Route 36 follow signs to Sandy Hook.
Please proceed to parking lot E on Sandy Hook. We have parking for 1200 cars in lot E, and many more lots in close walking distance.
Map & Directions