Big Beach Marathon
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Event overview
The Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K takes place the weekend of January 24-25, 2026 in Gulf Shores, Alabama (101 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542). The marathon and half marathon are held on Sunday with start and finish located beach side at The Hangout. The Safari 5K and a Family Fun Run/Walk (untimed) take place on Saturday. The courses use fully paved trails through Gulf State Park and are described as flat and scenic. The marathon course is USATF certified and a Boston qualifier.
Race events and options
- Marathon
- Half Marathon
- 5K
- Safari Family Fun Run/Walk (untimed)
Additional options include:
- Dolphin Challenge: 5K plus half marathon (age minimum 16+)
- Shark Challenge: 5K plus full marathon (age minimum 18+)
- Virtual Marathon, Virtual Half Marathon, Virtual Dolphin Challenge, Virtual Shark Challenge
Challengers receive race items from both events plus a third challenge medal and extra beer tickets. Participants are invited to a post-race celebration at The Hangout, where post-race food and beer are provided. Some events list age minimums and registration limits; virtual event registration ends January 24, 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
