FAQs
Can I register on race day?
Race day registration is NOT available. However, you can register online by Friday, January 23, 2026 @ 11:59PM EST (5K, Dolphin and Shark Challenge) and Saturday, January 24, 2026 @11:59PM EST (Half and Full Marathon).
What can expect on the course?
The Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K take place in Gulf Shores, Alabama, known for its white-sand beaches and clear Gulf of Mexico waters. Boasting a flat and fast Boston Qualifier course, the marathon reveals beautiful scenery as it runs through the paved trail system of Gulf State Park.
Can I pick up my friend's packet early?
Yes, you can pick up friends, family and coworker's packets. Our only exception is if you are running the marathon (Boston Qualifier event), you must pick up your packet with a CURRENT photo identification (Driver's license, passport, etc.).
Is the marathon course USATF Certified Boston Qualifier?
Yes, the marathon course IS USATF Certified. However, the half marathon is NOT USATF Certified.
Can I track a friend or family member during the race?
Yes! We are providing you with RaceJoy as part of the official race experience for the Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon and Safari 5K. You'll be able to track and cheer them to the finish line all from your mobile device (apple or android).
Download the RaceJoy mobile app HERE in advance to ensure proper phone setup. Invite your friends and family to track you and send you cheers!
Some key RaceJoy features include:
- GPS Progress Alerts
- Receive continual progress updates as you complete your goal.
- Live GPS Tracking
- Remote spectators can track your progress live in a map view. You can also track others.
- Send-a-Cheer
- Receive supportive audio cheers from remote friends & family.
**To use RaceJoy, participants must download and carry their phone and activate tracking on the day of your race. Friends and family must download app and search "Big Beach Marathon" to track participants.
Where can I check in my gear?
- 5K gear check will be located at Shelby Lakes (race site).
- Marathon and half marathon gear check will be located at the Hangout under the Mermaid (small) stage 3.
How does the virtual race work?
- Sign Up for the Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon, or 5K.
- Run anywhere you want, any time you want from December 28, 2025, through January 26, 2026
- Enter Your Time Here - https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/23276
- We ship your schwag! Please allow 2-4 weeks after our live event to receive schwag.
What is the Shark & Dolphin Challenges?
- Shark Challenge
Feeling at the top of your game? Ready for a race-packed weekend with extra bling, shirts, beer, and bragging rights? Then the Shark Challenge is the thing for you. Run the Safari 5K on Saturday and the Big Beach Marathon on Sunday for a total of 29.3 miles and get a cool Shark Challenge medal to recognize your achievement. Register Now!
- Dolphin Challenge
Maximize your race weekend with extra bling, shirts, craft beer and bragging rights. Choose the Dolphin Challenge and run the Safari 5K on Saturday and the Big Beach Half Marathon on Sunday for a total of 16.2 miles and get a cool Dolphin Challenge medal to recognize your achievement. Register Now!
With either challenge, you get two (2) shirts, three (3) medals and beer tickets for Sunday’s Big Beach Bash!
To receive the discount pricing for the Shark or Dolphin challenge, and to guarantee your double bling, you MUST register for the challenge in advance through the Shark or Dolphin challenge registration. Questions, want to add an event, O or if you registered for the races separately, reach out to us at info@junction311.com
*Note, if you are signed up separately for the 5K and either half or full you MUST contact us in order to be transferred into the appropriate challenge event. This is the only way you will receive your third medal!
Can I walk the event?
Yes, we love our walkers! All participants must meet the requirements of completing the half marathon in 3.5 hours or less, 7 hours or less for the marathon and 60 mins. for the 5K. If you cannot finish within time limits, we can't guarantee course support—which is paramount for your safety. Aid stations, medical support, portable toilets, and road closures will start to become unavailable to participants. The local police and race organizers will ask you to reroute to a shorter version of the course or move up onto the sidewalk where you will be required to obey regular traffic laws.
Things to do in the area with family and friends?
Adventure, fun, relaxation…you’ll find it all on Alabama’s white-sand beaches. For years, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach remained a little-known vacation treasure, but more and more families are discovering the 32 miles of soft sand and clear waters that lace the edges of Alabama’s southern border to the Gulf of Mexico. With attractions like the Alabama Zoo, zip lines, championship golf and water sports, travelers are escaping to the beach for their annual vacations and weekend getaways. Be sure to check out OWA. You can find out more http://www.gulfshores.com
Are strollers, pets, bikes or skates allowed?
Strollers must start in the rear of the event and must be jogging strollers. We do not allow pets, bicycles, inline skates or any means of transportation other than running, walking or handcycles/wheelchairs. Race Director reserves the right to reject any entry or to remove any participant from the race course.
How can I check to see if I am registered?
Select "Participate" tab, then "Participant Tracking" tab and enter your name.
Can I bump up my registration to the full? Bump down my distance to the half or 5K?
Refer to our Race Protection Policy HERE for more details. If you have any other questions, reach out to us at info@junction311.com.. We will be happy to help you.
What is your race day cancellation, deferral and refund policy?
In the event the race should be canceled for reasons beyond the control of the Race Director or Race Committee (inclement weather or unsafe weather conditions; local, state or national emergency), refunds will not be made, but race packets, including race shirts, will be available at a location to be determined. Refer to our Race Protection Policy HERE for more details.
