Honolulu Marathon

The Honolulu Marathon is one of the largest marathons in the United States, welcoming up to 25,000 participants annually on the island of O‘ahu. Known for its scenic oceanfront course and inclusive ethos, it’s the only U.S. marathon of its size with no cut-off time—making it accessible to runners of all levels. The 26.2-mile course begins at Ala Moana Beach Park and winds past Waikiki, around Diamond Head, and out to Hawaii Kai before finishing in Kapi‘olani Park. Finishers are greeted with medals, commemorative shirts, and local treats like malasadas in a celebratory festival setting. With companion events like the Kalakaua Merrie Mile and a 10K run, the weekend is built to engage both serious marathoners and casual participants. Since its founding in 1973, the event has drawn a strong international following, particularly from Japan, and remains a fixture on the winter racing calendar.