2026 Galveston Marathon and Half Marathon
The 2026 Galveston Marathon and Half Marathon takes place on Sunday, February 1, 2026, starting at Stewart Beach. Participants can expect cool, coastal conditions typical for early February in Galveston, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit and low humidity, creating favorable running weather. The event features a paved, flat, and fast road course designed for accessibility, offering a Boston-qualifying marathon, a half marathon, and a family-friendly 5K along the scenic Seawall with views of the Gulf of Mexico.
What is the event date and start location?
The event is scheduled for Sunday, February 1, 2026, with the start and finish line located at Stewart Beach, 515 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550.
What distances are available for this event?
- →Marathon (Boston Qualifier) starting at 7:30 AM
- →Half Marathon starting at 7:30 AM
- →5K Family Fun Run starting at 8:00 AM
- →Wheelchair/Handcycle Marathon starting at 7:15 AM
- →Wheelchair/Handcycle Half Marathon starting at 7:15 AM
How much does registration cost?
- →Marathon: $115
- →Half Marathon: $95
- →5K Family Fun Run: $115
- →Wheelchair/Handcycle Marathon: $115
- →Wheelchair/Handcycle Half Marathon: $95
What is the course description and terrain?
The course is a paved, flat, and fast road route designed for speed and accessibility. It runs along Galveston’s Seawall, offering oceanfront views of the Gulf of Mexico, and passes through Beach Town and East Beach. The marathon course consists of two loops of the half marathon route. The specific route heads north from Stewart Beach, then northeast on Seawall Blvd toward E. Beach Dr., continues southwest on Apffel Park Dr., returns to Seawall Blvd., proceeds east on Boddeker Rd. to a turnaround near a fenced electric tower, returns west on Boddeker Rd., turns left to follow Seawall Blvd., turns around near Pleasure Pier (25th St.), and heads back to Stewart Beach.
Are there course certifications for Boston qualification?
- →Marathon: Certified course #TX22001JH (Boston Qualifier)
- →Half Marathon: Certified course #TX22002JH
Are there any cutoff times for the races?
- →Marathon: There is a 6-hour limit. Runners must reach the halfway mark (13.1 miles) within 3 hours. Those not at this point will be directed to finish the half marathon.
- →Half Marathon: There is no time limit.
What aid and support is provided on the course?
- →Aid stations are located approximately every 2 miles, providing water and electrolytes.
- →Nutrition (gels or fuel) is not provided on the course; runners should carry their own.
- →Portapotties are available at Aid Station #1, along Boddeker Rd., and on Seawall west of Stewart Beach.
What is the packet pickup schedule?
- →Thursday, January 29: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM at On The Run, 2427 Bay Area Blvd, Houston
- →Saturday, January 31: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM at Galveston Island Running Co., 518 23rd St, Galveston
- →Sunday, February 1 (Race Day): From 6:00 AM at Stewart Beach
What is the race day schedule?
- →6:00 AM: Packet pickup opens
- →7:15 AM: Wheelchair/Handcycle (Full & Half Marathon) start
- →7:30 AM: Marathon & Half Marathon start
- →8:00 AM: 5K start
- →9:00 AM: 5K Awards
- →10:30 AM: Half Marathon Awards
- →11:30 AM: Marathon Awards
What is included in registration perks?
- →Long-sleeve technical shirt (for Full and Half Marathon participants)
- →Short-sleeve shirt (for 5K participants)
- →Finisher medals for all participants
- →Post-race food and drinks
- →Adaptive-friendly and accessible course design
- →Military/veteran discount (available)
What is the virtual option status?
Virtual options for the event are currently sold out.
What categories are included for adaptive athletes?
The event welcomes adaptive athletes, with specific categories for Wheelchair/Handcycle Marathon and Wheelchair/Handcycle Half Marathon. The course is designed to be adaptive-friendly and accessible.