There’s something magical about the energy at a major sporting event, isn’t there? That buzz in the air, the collective holding of breath during crucial moments, the roars that erupt from thousands of throats simultaneously. I’ve been chasing that feeling for years now, and trust me—whether you’re watching elite marathoners push through “the wall” in Los Angeles, witnessing Steph Curry sink an impossible three-pointer at Chase Center, or feeling the ocean spray as surfers carve massive waves at Mavericks, these experiences change you.
Let me share why these three wildly different sporting experiences deserve spots on your bucket list, and how you can make the most of each one.
The LA Marathon: 26.2 Miles of Pure City Magic
The first time I witnessed the LA Marathon, I wasn’t even planning to. I’d crashed at a friend’s apartment near mile 18, and woke up to the sounds of cheering and cowbells. Curious, I grabbed my coffee and wandered outside. What I saw literally stopped me in my tracks.
Thousands of runners—all shapes, sizes, ages—flowing through the streets like a human river. Some grimacing through obvious pain, others high-fiving spectators, a few in ridiculous costumes (shout-out to the guy dressed as a taco who was BOOKING it). Behind them, wheelchair athletes displayed incredible upper body strength and determination.
That impromptu morning changed something in me. I’ve been back every year since, sometimes as a spectator and twice as a participant.
What Makes the LA Marathon Special
The LA Marathon isn’t just another big city race. Here’s why it stands out:
- The “Stadium to the Sea” course: Starting at Dodger Stadium and finishing at the Santa Monica Pier, you literally traverse the entire city, passing through iconic neighborhoods like Chinatown, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Brentwood.
- The weather: While other major marathons often battle freezing temps or sweltering heat, LA typically offers perfect running conditions in March—cool mornings warming to mild afternoons.
- The star power: It’s not uncommon to spot celebrities either running or cheering. My personal highlight was high-fiving Christoph Waltz who was enthusiastically supporting runners near mile 20!
- The world-class field: Elite runners from across the globe compete for substantial prize money, making for thrilling competition at the front.
A Runner’s Personal Journey
My friend Maria’s LA Marathon story still gives me goosebumps. A single mom working two jobs, she decided to run it as a personal challenge after turning 40. Training meant 5am runs before her kids woke up and long Saturday distances pushing a double stroller.
“Mile 22 nearly broke me,” she told me over pasta the night after finishing. “My legs were completely shot, and I still had 4 miles to go. Then I saw my kids holding a sign that said ‘Mom’s Tougher Than Anyone.’ I ugly-cried for about 30 seconds, then somehow found another gear.”
Maria finished in 4:43:26—not record-setting by elite standards, but a monumental personal victory. That’s the magic of marathons: everyone’s race has a story, everyone’s finish line means something profound.
Spectator Tips for the LA Marathon
If you’re planning to watch rather than run, here’s how to maximize the experience:
- Choose your spot strategically: The entertainment and crowd support are amazing in Hollywood and Beverly Hills, while the struggle is real (and moving to witness) around miles 20-23 in Westwood.
- Make a sign: Runners desperately need encouragement, especially in the later miles. Funny signs are great—my favorite ever was “Worst Parade Ever.”
- Bring supplies for your favorite runner: If supporting someone specific, position yourself with their requested items (specific drinks, energy gels, or just a change of socks can be HEAVENLY mid-race).
- Download the tracking app: The official LA Marathon app lets you follow specific runners, making it easier to know when to look for them.
Want official merchandise to commemorate the experience? Check out the LA Marathon Official Shop for everything from technical gear to commemorative items.
Warriors Games: Basketball as Religious Experience
If marathons are about endurance and personal triumph, then Golden State Warriors games are about witnessing basketball played at its most beautiful and innovative. Even during rebuilding seasons, attending a Warriors game at Chase Center is an experience unlike any other in sports.
Why Warriors Games Hit Different
I’ll never forget taking my nephew to his first Warriors game. He’d been watching basketball on TV for years, but nothing prepared him for the actual in-person experience. The speed, the sound of squeaking sneakers, the thunderous dunks—he was literally open-mouthed for the first quarter.
“It’s so FAST,” he kept saying. “They make it look so EASY.”
What makes Warriors games special:
- The style of play: Even post-dynasty, the Warriors maintain a beautiful, movement-based offense that features constant passing, cutting, and shooting. It’s basketball as art form.
- Chase Center: The Warriors’ relatively new home is a technological marvel with the largest scoreboard in the NBA and perfect sightlines from virtually every seat.
- The fan culture: Warriors fans are knowledgeable, passionate, and LOUD. The “WAAARRRIORRRS” chant still gives me chills every time.
- The history: Whether you watched the dynasty years or not, you’re witnessing a team that changed how basketball is played globally.
Making the Most of a Warriors Game Experience
If you’re planning to attend a game at Chase Center, here are some insider tips:
- Arrive early: The pregame warmups are worth watching, especially to see the shooters go through their routines. Plus, you’ll avoid the Bay Bridge traffic nightmare.
- Explore the arena: Chase Center features local food vendors representing the Bay Area’s diverse culinary scene, plus impressive art installations throughout.
- Stay late: The Warriors’ post-game interviews often provide fascinating insights, and leaving right at the buzzer means sitting in garage traffic for ages anyway.
- BART it: Public transportation is by far the smartest way to attend, with dedicated shuttles running from nearby stations.
Looking for authentic Warriors gear? The NBA Store has everything from jerseys to collectibles.
Surf Competitions: Nature’s Ultimate Sports Arena
If marathons showcase human endurance and Warriors games display athletic precision, then surf competitions are where human skill meets nature’s raw power. There’s simply nothing like watching surfers challenge massive waves, putting their bodies and boards at the mercy of ocean forces.
The first time I attended Mavericks—the legendary big wave competition near Half Moon Bay—I genuinely couldn’t believe what I was seeing. Human beings voluntarily paddling into waves taller than buildings, disappearing into watery caverns, and somehow emerging still on their boards. It was terrifying, beautiful, and humbling all at once.
What Makes California Surf Competitions Special
California’s surf contest scene offers something for every level of fan:
- Variety of conditions: From the perfect tubes of Trestles to the massive swells at Mavericks, California’s diverse coastline creates radically different surfing experiences.
- Accessibility: Unlike many sports that happen in closed arenas, surf contests usually have free viewing areas where fans can watch from beaches or cliffs.
- The culture: Surf competitions blend athletic competition with beach culture, environmental awareness, and a laid-back vibe that’s uniquely Californian.
- The unpredictability: Because competitions depend on ocean conditions, there’s always an element of surprise. Events might be called on with just 24 hours notice when conditions are perfect, creating a spontaneous festival atmosphere.
The Mavericks Experience: Not for the Faint of Heart
I’ll never forget interviewing local surfer Bianca Torres after she completed her first Mavericks session (not during the competition, but on a “smaller” day when waves were “only” 15-20 feet).
“The paddle out alone nearly destroyed me,” she said, still shivering despite being wrapped in towels. “Then waiting for a wave, watching these mountains of water form—your brain is screaming ‘GET OUT OF HERE’ while your heart is saying ‘THIS IS WHY YOU CAME.’”
She caught two waves that day, wiped out catastrophically on both, and called it “the best day of my life.”
That’s surf culture in a nutshell—seeking transcendent moments in nature’s most powerful playground, even when (or especially when) it means facing genuine risk.
Tips for Attending Surf Competitions
If you’re planning to check out a California surf competition:
- Be prepared for waiting: Wave conditions dictate timing, meaning hours might pass between competitive heats. Bring sunscreen, water, food, and patience.
- Bring binoculars: Even at beach breaks, the action often happens far enough offshore that good optics enhance the experience tremendously.
- Listen to the announcers: Understanding scoring and strategy adds layers to your appreciation of what’s happening.
- Respect the beach: Pack out all trash, stay off protected dunes, and follow all local regulations.
For authentic surf gear and apparel, many competitions partner with brands like Rip Curl or Billabong for official merchandise.
Why These Three Sports Experiences Matter
You might be wondering what connects these three seemingly different sporting events. For me, it’s about witnessing human potential expressed in radically different ways:
- Marathoners show us what sustained effort and mental fortitude can achieve
- Basketball players demonstrate the heights of teamwork, skill, and athletic creativity
- Surfers reveal how humans can harmonize with (rather than conquer) nature’s most powerful forces
Each offers something the others don’t, yet all share that magical quality of bringing people together in moments of collective awe and appreciation.
In our increasingly digital world, there’s something profoundly important about gathering in person to witness extraordinary human achievements. These events remind us what’s possible when people dedicate themselves to mastery, push beyond comfort zones, and create communities around shared passions.
Your Turn to Experience the Magic
Whether you’re a lifelong sports fan or someone seeking new experiences, I hope you’ll consider adding these three California sporting extravaganzas to your must-see list.
Start planning:
- Check the LA Marathon website for next year’s date and registration
- Browse Warriors tickets for upcoming home games
- Follow World Surf League for California competition announcements
Have you attended any of these events? What was your experience like? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your stories and answer any questions about making these sporting experiences part of your California adventure.
About the author: Jamie Rodriguez is a sports journalist and adventure enthusiast who has covered California sporting events for over a decade. When not in stadiums, on beaches, or along marathon routes, Jamie can be found hiking the Sierra Nevada with an unnecessarily heavy camera.
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