How do I register for Big Beach Marathon?

Registration is open and available online through RunSignup. There is no race day registration, and the marathon closes by the Friday before race day or when the event fills.

Is Big Beach Marathon a Boston qualifier?

Yes, it is a certified Boston qualifier. The qualifying rate is relatively low, so plan on running a well-prepared race to hit your standard.

What is the elevation profile like?

The course is essentially flat. The highest point is under 50 feet, and total elevation gain and loss are equal and modest across the full distance. It's one of the flatter road marathons you'll find.

What is the course format?

Big Beach uses a multi-loop layout, so you'll cover some sections of road more than once. The start and finish are at The Hangout in downtown Gulf Shores.

What is the typical race-day weather?

Late January temperatures typically range from the low 40s at the start to the low 60s by midday. Expect some Gulf humidity and possible wind on exposed sections.

Is the course USATF certified?

Yes, the Big Beach Marathon course is USATF certified.

Sun, Jan 31 · 2027Gulf Shores, ALSince 2016

Big Beach Marathon

Big Beach Marathon runs along the Alabama Gulf Coast in late January, when the air is cool and the crowds are small. It's a low-key race with a genuine shot at a PR if you run it right.

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BIG BEACH · US

Big Beach

SUN, JAN 31

2027

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Race Overview

EST. 2016

Big Beach is a small, no-fuss marathon on the Alabama Gulf Coast. It starts and finishes at The Hangout in downtown Gulf Shores, right near the water. The course is a multi-loop layout that keeps you close to the coast throughout. With minimal elevation change and cool January temperatures, conditions line up well for a solid effort. Don't go out too fast just because the early miles feel easy.

This is a good race if you want a legitimate PR attempt without the chaos of a big-city event. The field is small, which means uncrowded roads and a relaxed start-line vibe. It's a Boston qualifier, though the qualifying rate is low, so come fit and ready to work for it. Registration is open, so getting in is straightforward, just don't wait too long as it closes the Friday before race day. If you're coming from out of town, Pensacola or Mobile are your closest airport options, and there's plenty of lodging within walking distance of the start.

Field size

~420

420 finishers

BQ rate

6%

Near national average

Time limit

7:00

Generous cutoff

Entry

Open

First-come registration

Course records

Men

2:31:56

Frank Matte

2025

Women

3:02:48

Alison Burke

2024

The Course

314 ft total gain

Total ascent

↑314 ft

Total descent

↓314 ft

Net elevation

↑0 ft

Highest point

48 ft

Lowest point

2 ft

Course shape

Multi loop

Start and finish in one place

The course is essentially flat, sitting between two feet and 48 feet of elevation the entire way. Total gain and loss are equal and modest, spread across a multi-loop layout, so there are no significant climbs to manage and no long descents to bank time on. Pacing is the main variable. The loop format means you'll run stretches of road more than once, which helps you anticipate conditions but can dull momentum in the back half. Wind off the Gulf can be a factor on exposed coastal sections. Aim for even splits from the gun. The surface is road throughout, and the low overall elevation means legs stay fresher than on hillier courses.

DIFFICULTYFLATPR-FRIENDLYMODERATE

Past results

Race-Day Weather

10-year median

Low

43°F

High

62°F

30°MARATHON-IDEAL 45–60°80°

What to expect

Late January in Gulf Shores usually means a cool morning and a mild afternoon. You'll likely start in the low-to-mid 40s, so a throwaway layer for the corral is worth it. By the back half of the race you'll have warmed up and the air typically climbs into the low 60s. Humidity can be a factor near the Gulf even in winter, so don't let the temperature fool you into skipping hydration. Wind off the water is possible on exposed stretches. Overall it's a favorable window for racing, but it's not guaranteed to be calm.

Entry

OPEN

Open registration. Online registration available through RunSignup. Race day registration not available. Marathon registration must close by Friday before race day.

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Logistics

For runners travelling in

Closest airport

MSY

155 mi

from the start

≈ 245 min transferLonger haul

What to expect

Nearest major airports are Pensacola (about 60 miles, 1 hour) and Mobile (about 60 miles, 1.25 hours). The Hangout restaurant serves as the race start/finish in downtown Gulf Shores. Hotels and vacation rentals are plentiful within walking distance of the start.

Frequently Asked

7 questions

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