
Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K is a running race on January 30–31, 2027 in Gulf Shores, AL, with entry fees from $15 to $130.
From the Organizer
You are invited to join us for Big Beach Marathon in beautiful Gulf Shores, Alabama the weekend of January 30th & 31st, 2027. The courses are scenic, flat, and FAST, running on the fully paved trails through the Gulf State Park. Our course is also a USATF Certified Boston Qualifier for those who are hoping to score a coveted Boston qualifying time (and potentially snag a spot at the world major).
The marathon and half marathon take place Sunday, with the start and finish located beach side at The Hangout. Enjoy stunning views of the Gulf Shores beaches, 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 the marathon or half marathon distances 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 on Saturday and the full marathon (Shark) or 5K Saturday and then half marathon on Sunday (Dolphin)! Challengers receive finishers medals 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 beaches! We can’t wait to see you at Big Beach!
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
59°
Typical Low
47°
Chance of Rain
37%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Dauphin Is #2, 21 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
15,785
as of 2023
City Elevation
10 ft
Nearest Airport
PNS
Pensacola International Airport · 36 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
A mid-size host city. Enough lodging and amenities to keep race weekend easy, without big-city sprawl.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
191
Days to train
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From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it’s the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
From 5K to marathon, running races are an accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Coming Up
The STEELE 5.5k
9 miles away
Bloody Mary 5k
3 miles away
2026 Shrimp Festival Run
7 miles away
Haunted Hustle 5K, Monster Mash Dash, and The Wicked Walk Parade
1 mile away
Plan your trip
Coming from out of town? There's more to Gulf Shores than race day. We'll help you line up nearby lodging, flights, a rental car, and things to do so you can make the most of your racecation.
Plan your trip to Gulf ShoresFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K
Jan 30, 2027