Big Beach Marathon
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Big Beach Marathon
The Big Beach Marathon weekend takes place in Gulf Shores, Alabama on January 30 and 31, 2027. The event uses fully paved trails through Gulf State Park. The course is described as scenic and flat and is USATF certified for Boston qualification.
The marathon and half marathon occur on Sunday with the start and finish located beachside at The Hangout, offering views of the Gulf Shores beaches. Saturday features a Safari 5K and a Safari Family Fun Run and Walk that is untimed.
Challenge options pair the Saturday 5K with a Sunday distance. The Dolphin Challenge pairs the 5K and the half marathon for a combined 17.5 miles and includes a Dolphin Challenge medal, t-shirt and extra beer tickets for the Sunday after party. The Shark Challenge pairs the 5K and the marathon for a combined 30.6 miles and includes a Shark Challenge medal, t-shirt and extra beer.
Virtual race options are available for marathon, half marathon and challenge distances with distinct virtual distances listed by the organizer.
All in-person participants are invited to a post-race gathering at The Hangout on Sunday that includes post-race food and beer. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
