The Beneva Vancouver Half Marathon (formerly Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon) is a premier road race featuring a scenic, net-downhill course along Vancouver’s stunning coastline.
Course Highlights
The Beneva Vancouver Half Marathon course is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in Canada, offering a stunning point-to-point journey that showcases the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The race begins at the University of British Columbia (UBC), situated on a high point of the city, which provides a fast and exhilarating downhill start. As runners descend along NW Marine Drive, they are treated to sweeping views of the Burrard Inlet and the majestic North Shore Mountains. The route winds through the lush greenery of the UBC campus before hitting the coastline.
The middle section of the race is a coastal dream, passing by the expansive sandy stretches of Spanish Banks and Jericho Beach. Here, the ocean breeze and the sound of waves provide a refreshing backdrop for the athletes. The course continues through the vibrant Kitsilano neighborhood, a hub of Vancouver’s active lifestyle. The final stretch takes runners past Kitsilano Beach, one of the city’s most popular summer spots, before crossing the finish line at the Museum of Vancouver in Vanier Park. This seaside finish area offers a spectacular view of the downtown skyline and the False Creek waterfront, making for an unforgettable race conclusion.
Race Details
The 2026 edition of the Beneva Vancouver Half Marathon & 5K is set to take place on Sunday, June 28, 2026. This prestigious event caters to runners of all abilities with three distinct distances: the flagship 21.1K Half Marathon, a competitive yet accessible 5K, and a 1K Kids Race designed for participants aged 2 to 12. The Half Marathon kicks off at 07:45 from its start line at UBC, while the 5K race begins at 07:30 at the Museum of Vancouver. The Kids Race follows later in the morning at 10:45, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the day.
Registration for the event is all-inclusive, providing participants with a high-quality ASICS souvenir technical shirt, a unique finisher’s medal, and a professionally timed experience. On the course, runners can rely on well-stocked aid stations every few kilometers, offering water, electrolytes, and energy gels at specific intervals. To help runners achieve their goals, the ASICS Pacer Team leads groups for a wide range of target finish times. The race maintains a strict 3-hour course limit for the half marathon to ensure safety and organization.
Why Runners Love It
There are countless reasons why the Beneva Vancouver Half Marathon has become a staple of the Canada Running Series. For many, the primary draw is the course’s “fast and scenic” reputation. The net downhill profile makes it an ideal venue for setting a new personal record, while the coastal views keep the mind engaged and inspired. Furthermore, the race is more than just a personal challenge; it is a community-driven event. Through the Charity Challenge, thousands of runners raise significant funds for over 80 local charities, giving every kilometer a deeper purpose.
The event’s commitment to sustainability is another point of pride for participants. As a carbon-neutral race with a high waste diversion rate, it allows runners to enjoy the beauty of Vancouver while knowing their impact on the environment is minimized. The organization also emphasizes inclusivity, with specialized programs for adaptive athletes and accessible facilities. Finally, the post-race festival at Vanier Park is a highlight in itself. Runners can celebrate their achievements with recovery food, explore partner exhibits, and soak in the festive energy of a community united by the joy of running.
Don’t miss out on your chance to experience Vancouver’s premier coastal race. Whether you are aiming for a personal best or looking for a scenic stroll with the family, the 2026 event promises to be an incredible experience. Secure your spot today by visiting the official registration page at the Beneva Vancouver Half Marathon website.
At a Glance
- Location: Vancouver, British Columbia — Canada
- Next Date: 2026-06-28
- Distances: [‘Half Marathon’, ‘5K’, ‘1K Kids Race’]
- Start Time: 07:45
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://canadarunningseries.com/vancouver-half-marathon/




