Sunday, September 20, 2026
THE ZUMA
Distance
THE ZUMA
— About the Event
Join Us in Malibu
Welcome to the most beautiful triathlon location in the world — Zuma Beach in Malibu. From swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Zuma Beach, to biking the scenic Malibu coastline, to running by the cliffs of Point Dume, the Zuma Beach Triathlon is unsurpassed in safety and beauty.
We have designed an incredible course completely closed to traffic. You will be treated like a star for the day and will probably see a few along the course as well. Sign up early — entries are limited and sure to sell out!
Ready for a bigger challenge? Our Olympic Distance event is designed to go fast and hard and test your athletic prowess. Limited to 500 competitors — sign up early!
📅
Race Day
Sunday, September 20, 2026
Zuma Beach · Malibu, California
Swim
1/2 Mile Open Water
Rectangular course · LA County Lifeguards · Beach start
Bike
16 miles on PCH
Fully closed Pacific Coast Highway · flat & fast
Run
4 mile coastal run
Flat course – out and back
popular event class
This is a popular event. Don’t miss your chance to race on the most beautiful course in the world.
— What Makes It Special
Why Race THE Zuma DISTANCE?
🐬
ocean Swim
Crystal-clear Pacific waters with full LA County Lifeguard supervision — the most beautiful open-water swim in the world.
🛣
Closed PCH
The safest day of the year to ride Pacific Coast Highway. Wide, fast, and completely closed to traffic.
🏔
Point Dume Run
Run to the iconic Planet of the Apes cliffs and back along one of Southern California’s most stunning stretches of coastline.
⭐
Star-Studded Course
Malibu’s legendary coastline means you’ll likely spot a celebrity or two. Popular, fun, breathtaking — an exclusive experience.
— participant buzz
— Course Details
Course Maps & Descriptions
01
Discipline One
Swim Course
1/2 mile · Open Water · Zuma Beach
The rectangular-shaped course features a full complement of Los Angeles County Lifeguards and starts with a quick swim through the surf, followed by a 90-degree right-hand turn. Follow the coastline, make another right turn, and sprint to the finish!
The crystal-clear Pacific waters at Zuma Beach are unmatched in visibility and beauty — don’t be surprised if you spot dolphins sharing the course with you.
THE ZUMA Distance · 1/2 MILE Swim Course
02
Discipline Two
Bike Course
16 miles · Out and Back · Pacific Coast Highway
Three words describe this leg: Beautiful. Closed Course. The safest day of the year to ride Pacific Coast Highway, featuring a single loop bike course completely closed to traffic.
It’s wide, fast, fun and spectator friendly – Wave to your friends and family as you fly by the main site and get energized as you return to transition. A very mellow slight hill will speed you along your way to a personal record.
Bike Course · THE ZUMA Distance • 16 MILES
4
03
Discipline Three
Run Course
4 miles · Flat & Fast · Zuma to Point Dume
You will run along the most beautiful section of Zuma Beach to the famous Planet of the Apes cliffs.
Flat and fast out and back course paralleling the beach, simply run 2 miles to the Point Dume Cliffs, and turn around and sprint back to the finish line
Run Course • THE ZUMA DISTANCE • 4 MILES
— Race Weekend
Other Events
Ages 9–14
Ages 9-11: 100 yd swim · 3 mi bike · 1/2 mi run
Ages 12-14: 200 yd swim · 6 mi bike · 1 mi run