Shark Run 5k & 1 Mile Fun Run

Join us for the 10th Annual Bloody Mary 5K Run and Walk at Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores on Saturday, August 30th at 7:30 am. This annual event is on flat and fast city streets. If you want to earn a PR or just have fun, THIS is the Labor Day weekend event you want to do.

This race is the final race in the Run the Coast Summer series. There are cash prizes for the top 3 male and female runners in the series, based on the points system over the 3 races. Labor Day weekend also kicks off football season and a race tradition is showing your team spirit. We will have our traditional Team Spirit Awards, so wear your team colors and be eligible for prizes.

Gulf Coast Racing

Race day doesn’t get better than this. Swim the clear Gulf waters, ride along the coastline, and run past white-sand beaches—all with the salty breeze pushing you forward.

Whether you're chasing a podium or just soaking up the atmosphere, this race welcomes all experience levels with multiple divisions and a laid-back Gulf Shores vibe.

Cap it all off with a festive post-race party and that unmistakable beach-town energy. Let's celebrate year 19 of this incredible race!

Join us in Orange Beach for the 19th Annual Coastal Half Marathon, 5k, & 1-Mile Fun Run. It's the perfect opportunity to create new family traditions and experience the award-winning backcountry trails at this post-Thanksgiving weekend race.

Why Choose the Coastal Runs:

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Thanksgiving Weekend Special: Celebrate the holiday weekend with a run through Alabama's beautiful coastal landscapes.

Scenic Trails for All: Our courses wind through stunning backcountry trails, offering options for everyone with the half marathon, 5k, or 1-mile fun run.

A Perfect Family Trip: Extend your Thanksgiving holiday into a mini-vacation. Orange Beach offers beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, ideal for families. Create lasting memories with loved ones and start a new holiday tradition.

The Coastal Half Marathon, 5k, and 1-Mile Fun Run offers natural beauty, family and friend bonding, and holiday cheer. Transform your Thanksgiving weekend into an unforgettable adventure with us in Orange Beach!

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!

Join us beach side for the Sea Turtle Half Marathon, Sweetheart 5K, True Love 10K, or Be Mine 1 Mile in beautiful Gulf Shores, AL!

Taking place February 13, 2027, there are FOUR awesome distances to choose from- the Sea Turtle Half Marathon, the Sweetheart 5K, True Love 10K, and the Be Mine 1 Mile. Whichever distance you take on, it is sure to be a fin-tastically good time! Each event is timed, with participants having the opportunity to qualify for awards.

All distances start and end at The Hangout Gulf Shores, our sponsor and the host of the post race party! Each registration comes with tickets for food and beer (21+ only). So grab your sweetheart, your bestie, your reluctant running buddy... you don't want to miss it!