San Francisco’s hills, parks, and ocean views make it one of the world’s best running cities—and the community scene is thriving. Whether you want structured coaching, a social vibe, or weekly low-cost races, here are five standout SF run clubs, followed by more great groups to try.
1) San Francisco Road Runners Club (SFRRC)
Why it’s popular: Describes itself as the city’s largest club, with pace groups, coaches, and multiple weekly sessions.
What they offer: Saturday long runs, track/tempo sessions, trail options, and a big-tent, all-paces culture.
Learn more: sfrrc.org
2) Run Club SF
Why it’s popular: A lively “social club with a running problem,” welcoming runners who can cover a couple of miles at ~12:00/mi.
What they offer: Tue Wildcard runs in Golden Gate Park, Thu speed at Kezar, Sat adventure runs around the city.
Learn more: sanfranciscorunningclub.com
3) Golden Gate Running Club
Why it’s popular: Inclusive community with scenic Presidio routes, track workouts, and regular socials.
What they offer: Weekly runs (often Wed/Sun) plus a low-pressure way to meet runners across paces.
Learn more: goldengaterunningclub.org
4) Marina Run Club
Why it’s popular: Newer club that quickly grew citywide attention; meets 4×/week and emphasizes community + routine.
What they offer: Group runs from the Marina, consistent weekly schedule, and welcoming energy for newer and returning runners.
Learn more: marinarunclub.com
5) Dolphin South End Runners (DSE)
Why it’s popular: SF institution (founded 1966) with nearly-every-weekend $10 races and open, all-abilities culture.
What they offer: Low-key races across GGP, Lands End, the beach, and more—great for frequent, budget-friendly racing.
Learn more: dserunners.com
Additional Run Clubs Worth Checking Out
Looking for a specific vibe or neighborhood? Try these:
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San Francisco FrontRunners — Founding LGBTQIA+ chapter with year-round runs and a Pride Run 5K/10K.
Site: sffr.org -
Achilles International — SF Bay Area — Pairs athletes with disabilities with volunteer guides; partners with local races.
Site: achillesinternational.org/san-francisco-bay-area -
A Runner’s Mind (ARM) Community Runs — Free shop-led group runs in SF and the Peninsula (hills, fun runs, speed).
Site: arunnersmind.com/run-with-us -
Custom Fit SF Run Club — 5K Saturdays, plus testing and gait analysis for data-curious runners.
Site: sfrunclub.com -
Hella Bae Running, Fat Boys Run Club, BV Run Club, Oh! Run Club — Community-led groups with inclusive, social atmospheres; check local directories and IG for current meetups.
How to Choose the Right Club
- Match your goals: Social miles, speedwork, trail fun, or race-prep structure?
- Check recency: Scan each club’s site/IG for this week’s events.
- Try a few: Most welcome drop-ins—sample 2–3 before deciding.
- Think logistics: Start locations (Presidio, Marina, Kezar), start times, and post-run hangouts.