Big Beach Marathon
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event overview
The Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K takes place the weekend of January 24–25, 2026 in Gulf Shores, Alabama. The marathon and half marathon are scheduled for Sunday and the 5K and Family Fun Run/Walk are scheduled for Saturday. The race weekend includes in-person and virtual options. The event base and start/finish area are beach side at The Hangout.
Race options
Distances and event formats include:
- Marathon
- Half Marathon
- 5K
- Safari Family Fun Run/Walk (Untimed)
- Virtual Marathon
- Virtual Half Marathon
- Dolphin Challenge - 5K + Half Marathon
- Shark Challenge - 5K + Marathon
The Dolphin Challenge pairs Saturday's 5K with Sunday's half marathon. The Shark Challenge pairs Saturday's 5K with Sunday's full marathon. Challengers receive finishers medals from each race plus a separate challenge medal and additional finish-line benefits noted by the organizer.
Course and logistics
Courses run on fully paved trails through Gulf State Park and are described as flat. The marathon course is USATF certified as a Boston qualifier. Post-race provisions include food and beer at the Hangout after party. The event location is listed as 101 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
