Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K 2027 — Gulf Shores, AL

Date
January 30, 2027
Location
Gulf Shores, AL
Venue
101 E Beach Blvd
Start Time
9:00 AM
Entry Fee
$15.00 – $190.00
Events
Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, Safari Family Fun Run & Walk (Untimed), Dolphin Challenge - 5K + Half Marathon, Shark Challenge - 5K + Marathon
Includes
Marathon Long Sleeve | Half Marathon Long Sleeve | Safari 5K T-Shirt | T-Shirt | Long Sleeve & Short Sleeve Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K is a running event held on January 30, 2027, in Gulf Shores, Alabama, at 101 E Beach Blvd. The race offers five distance options: 1 mile, 5K, 5 miles, 7K, and a full marathon at 26.2 miles. The half marathon distance is also available. The typical start time is 9:00 AM. Entry fees range from $15 to $190 depending on distance and registration timing. For athletes unable to travel to Gulf Shores, a virtual participation option allows you to complete your chosen distance remotely and submit your time. This multi-distance format accommodates various fitness levels and training goals, making it accessible whether you're targeting a marathon goal or looking for a shorter winter running event.

From the Race 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!

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Gulf Shores, AL. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K 2027 — Gulf Shores, AL

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for January 30.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Gulf Shores, AL. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K 2027 — Gulf Shores, AL?

Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K 2027 — Gulf Shores, AL takes place on January 30, 2027. The race is held in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Where is Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K 2027 — Gulf Shores, AL held?

Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K 2027 — Gulf Shores, AL is held at 101 E Beach Blvd in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Where can I find hotels near Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon & Safari 5K 2027 — Gulf Shores, AL?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Gulf Shores. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.