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Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K

Half & Full Marathon: January 25, 2026 | 5K: January 24, 2026 Gulf Shores, AL 36542 US Directions

Events

Marathon

$145 $90 01/25 7:30AM CST - 2:30PM CST Price increases after July 28, 2025 at 11:59pm CDT
Open to ages 18+.

Half Marathon

$120 $70 01/25 7:30AM CST - 2:30PM CST Price increases after July 28, 2025 at 11:59pm CDT
Open to ages 12+.

5K

$60 $35 01/24 9:00AM CST - 11:00AM CST
217 spots left. Price increases after August 28, 2025 at 11:59pm CDT

Safari Family Fun Run & Walk (Untimed)

$25 $15 01/24 9:10AM CST - 11:00AM CST Price increases after November 27, 2025 at 11:59pm CST

Dolphin Challenge - 5K + Half Marathon

$160 $95 01/24 - 01/25 9:00AM CST - 2:30PM CST
195 spots left. Price increases after July 28, 2025 at 11:59pm CDT
Open to ages 16+.

Shark Challenge - 5K + Marathon

$180 $120 01/24 - 01/25 9:00AM CST - 2:30PM CST
79 spots left. Price increases after July 28, 2025 at 11:59pm CDT
Open to ages 18+.

Virtual Marathon

$80 Registration Opens August 20, 2025 at 6:01am CDT

Virtual Half Marathon

$80 Registration Opens August 20, 2025 at 6:01am CDT

Place

101 E Beach Blvd
Gulf Shores, AL US 36542

Description

You are invited to join us for the Big Beach in beautiful Gulf Shores, Alabama the weekend of January 24th & 25th, 2026.  The courses are scenic, flat and fast running on the fully paved trails through Gulf State Park.

 

The Marathon and Half Marathon take place Sunday, with the start and finish located beachside at the Hangout. Enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the beach. A gorgeous backdrop for your race weekend. And a celebration that brings runners back year after year.

 

In addition to Sunday's Marathon and Half Marathon, the Safari 5K and Family Fun Run/Walk on Saturday provides an opportunity for those not up to a marathon or half marathon the ability to participate, as well as giving those looking for an added challenge, the opportunity for two days of racing in your weekend. Take on the Shark or Dolphin challenge by choosing to participate in the 5K Saturday and the Full or Half Marathon Sunday! Challengers receive all the swag from both races PLUS a third challenge medal, extra beer tickets, and the ultimate in bragging rights. 

 

All race participants are welcome to The Hangout after party on Sunday to celebrate! Participants will receive post-race food, beer and a great time near the beautiful Gulf Shores Beach! We can’t wait to see you at Big Beach!

 

 

 

Sponsors


Race Contact Info

If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.

UPWARD RUNNING

Upward Running is a faith-driven community that unites running with spiritual growth. 

With proven training plans, expert coaching, and encouragement, Upward Running empowers individuals to enhance their physical health while deepening their spiritual walk. 

 

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