Conquer the Pier 5K Returns to Venice Beach This Saturday

CAMPBELL WELLMAN CONQUER THE PIER VENICE BEACH 5K RUN 2026

This Saturday, July 18th, one of the most uniquely scenic athletic traditions on the Westside returns. Conquer the Pier Venice Beach 5K is officially back, offering runners, walkers, and local families the rare opportunity to race directly over the Pacific Ocean.

If you have been looking for an upbeat, active way to soak in the mid-summer morning sun while giving back to our coastal parks, this is your perfect weekend plan.

The Race Experience: Running Across the Water

What separates this event from a standard 5K is the route itself. The fast, flat, and entirely paved course begins next to the historic Muscle Beach area at Windward Plaza. From there, runners will navigate the iconic Venice Beach boardwalk before making their way out onto the historic Venice Beach Pier.

Covering the entire length of the pier, you are quite literally starting and finishing with nothing but salt air, crashing waves, and panoramic ocean views surrounding you.

  • Conquer the Venice Beach Pier 5K

  • The Top Dog Division 5K: No need to leave your favorite training partner at home. This year features the popular Benny’s Top Dog Division. Registered pups get their very own dog bib and a dog-specific finisher medal to wear proudly on the walk back home!

  • The Finish Line Festival: Crossing the finish line at Windward Plaza drops you right into a full beach celebration featuring a live DJ, a vibrant sponsor and vendor expo, and plenty of post-race giveaways.

  • REGISTER HERE

Your Race Week Playbook

1. Early Packet Pickup & Shake-Out Run

Beat the Saturday morning rush by heading down to Marina Del Rey early.

  • When: Thursday, July 16th, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

  • Where: REI, 4655 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292

  • Bonus Event: Don't miss the new REI Shake-out Run starting right from the store at 6:30 PM to get your legs loose before the weekend.

2. Race Day Schedule (Saturday, July 18th)

  • 6:30 AM: Day-of Packet Pickup opens at Windward Plaza

  • 8:00 AM: 5K Race Start (Arrive early to warm up and soak in the energy)

3. Parking Tips

Venice beach lots fill up incredibly fast on mid-summer weekend mornings. If you want to secure a spot close to the start line, aim to arrive early. Recommended parking lots include:

  • South Lot: 2100 Ocean Front Walk

  • North Lot: 300 Ocean Front Walk

  • Pier Lot: 3100 Washington Blvd (closest to the pier portion of the run)

Running for a Better Venice

Beyond the medals and the scenic miles, registering for this weekend's run represents a direct investment in the very community we love.

100% of the event proceeds go directly to the Los Angeles Parks Foundation, specifically earmarked to support local youth sports, community programs, and upkeep at the Venice Beach Recreation Center. Every registration helps preserve and protect the public parks, basketball courts, and skate parks that make our coastal community a globally recognized hub of culture and athletic history.

The Campbell Wellman Take

 

Events like the Conquer the Pier 5K highlight exactly why people fall in love with the coastal Westside lifestyle. It blends physical wellness, unmatched natural scenery, and a the best vibes. It’s a chance to run alongside your neighbors, support local parks, and celebrate the active lifestyle that makes our real estate markets so incredibly desirable. Whether you’re gunning for a personal record on a flat course, walking it with your family, or running with your dog, we highly encourage you to head down to Windward Plaza this Saturday. It’s community engagement at its best.