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+.
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
128 spots left. Price increases after July 28, 2025 at 11:59pm CDT
128 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
42 spots left. Price increases after July 28, 2025 at 11:59pm CDT
42 spots left. Price increases after July 28, 2025 at 11:59pm CDT
Open to ages 18+.
JOIN US AT BIG BEACH 2026!
THE BEST RACE VIEWS AROUND!
You are invited to join us for Big Beach Marathon 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 the Gulf State Park. Our course is also a Boston Marathon 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 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 beaches! We can’t wait to see you at Big Beach!
ARE YOU UP FOR THE CHALLENGE?
Choose between the Dolphin Challenge, which combines Saturday's 5k and Sunday's half marathon OR tackle the Shark Challenge and complete Saturday's 5k and Sunday's full marathon distance, and recieve a special challenger medal to commemorate. Which one are YOU taking on?
Upward 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.
Questions? We've got you.
How can we help?
Sponsors
101 E Beach Blvd
Gulf Shores, AL 36542 US
View Location on Map
