A Labor Day-weekend boardwalk race is the most Rockaway way to end the season: ocean air, dead-flat boards fast enough for a PR, and the entire beach as your recovery plan. The 5K/10K split means the whole crew can run — casual joggers take the short course, mileage people double it. Finish, kick off the shoes, and be in the water ten minutes later.
What to expect
A morning start at Beach 73rd with both distances running the boardwalk out-and-back; low-key local-race energy, then a mass migration to the sand. Spectators can post anywhere along the boards.
Good to know
- A train to Beach 67th or Beach 90th, or the ferry to Beach 108th
- Advance registration for racers; the boardwalk stays open to the public
- Flat, fast course — bring racing shoes if you care about time
- Pack a swimsuit; the post-race swim is the point
- Beach 73rd's food-and-drink strip handles the celebration
Planning Sep 5–6, 2026 in NYC?
This list keeps changing as events are verified. We'll send you the final version the Thursday before — and you can unsubscribe right after if that's all you need.
Common questions
Which distance should I pick?
The 5K suits casual runners; the 10K doubles the boardwalk out-and-back. Both are flat and beginner-safe.
Can I register on race day?
Community races often allow day-of entry, but check the organizer's page — capacity and timing chips can limit it.





