The Honolulu Marathon is the fourth largest marathon in the United States after New York, Chicago and Boston. There is no time limit and no limit on the number of participants. At the Start to Park 10k, experience the thrill of the Honolulu Marathon start with fireworks and 30,000 participants! …
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The Honolulu Marathon is the fourth largest marathon in the United States after New York, Chicago and Boston. There is no time limit and no limit on the number of participants.
At the Start to Park 10k, experience the thrill of the Honolulu Marathon start with fireworks and 30,000 participants! The 10k starts at the same time and place as the full Honolulu Marathon and finishes 10km into the marathon course in Kapiolani Park.
The Kalakaua Merrie Mile is rapidly emerging as one of the most entertaining road mile races in the world. It’s a fun one-mile race in Waikiki followed by beach party and outstanding athletic display by world renowned middle distance athletes and olympians.
Great as a warm-up for the marathon as well as visiting friends and family. Children of all ages are welcome to run the Merrie Mile. Starts are in waves based on predicted finish time.
The race is named after King Kalakaua, who was known as the Merrie Monarch. The one-mile course starts at the Kapiolani Park end of Kalakaua Avenue and the turn around is by Kaiulani Ave.
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Tough race
This race was very hard for me. It was very hilly and warm. I struggled on the hills and really throughout the race but overall it was enjoyable as it … MORE
This race was very hard for me. It was very hilly and warm. I struggled on the hills and really throughout the race but overall it was enjoyable as it was very scenic.
Even in the rain, so much fun!
It rained for the 2 mile walk to the start, but then let up for 16 miles, we got to see the elites finishing as they ran down diamond head, … MORE
It rained for the 2 mile walk to the start, but then let up for 16 miles, we got to see the elites finishing as they ran down diamond head, a mile from the finish. It got hot for about 15 minutes, then the breeze picked up. As we were on the way back from koko head, it really started pouring, but not too windy and not cold, so actually enjoyable. They even had Malasadas left for the slower runners? The medal is now sponsored by SGC, and it is really nice. The quality of the shirts was also really good this year. We signed up again for 2026, best vibe!!
Not all it's cracked up to be
I was looking forward to this one for months, but was sorely let down. Expo wasn't too bad. There was a long line before the opening, and the doors were … MORE
I was looking forward to this one for months, but was sorely let down. Expo wasn’t too bad. There was a long line before the opening, and the doors were opened a few minutes late, but oh well. A weird verification system where you picked up your bib and then had to wait in ANOTHER line for your chip to be scanned electronically. First time I encountered this in 22 marathons. No shirts, you get them after you finish. Lots of merchandise at the expo. Race morning called for rain but moved out before race time. The start was a complete mess. 2 lanes were to start: one one side elites, then the next fastest corral. In the other lane, the 2 slowest corrals. For whatever ridiculous reason, the police were trying to move people from the one side to the other saying you can’t block the road. It was already blocked from the back!! So in other words, get out of a blocked road. ??? Therefore, almost didn’t make it to the back of the corral. I knew i was too far back when a million phones appeared to take picture of the fireworks. And no checking of anyone in the corrals. When the gun went off, you had BOTH LANES starting at once, no waves, no nothing. So you had 5 hour plus runners starting with elites! Completely nuts. To add to the mess, 10k runners were in same corrals. Tons of walkers bowing up in front of you to take selfies. It was dark, so people were running into each other. The course itself isn’t easy. Most people, like myself, were simply not acclimated to the temps so we were all dropping like flies in 76 degrees and 95 percent humidity. When we finally got to the finish line, you got the medal, showers (which were nice), then from there a complete maze. Go one way to get your shirt, go one way to buy merch (who carries a debit card on a marathon?), and then put a search party out to find ANYTHING to eat! A banana and some small muffin. Then people had no idea how to get out of the finish area. The best part was the lines based on shirt sizes to get your shirt. Overall it was a disorganized mess. I have a hard time believing any experienced marathon was included in organizing this. If you have to get your 50 states in, you don’t have much of a choice. For a destination marathon, choose something else.
Not what I expected
Wouldn’t recommend Honolulu Marathon. While the volunteers were great and overall good vibe, the gatorade was watered down, they give a small bottle of water when you finish, no place … MORE
Wouldn’t recommend Honolulu Marathon. While the volunteers were great and overall good vibe, the gatorade was watered down, they give a small bottle of water when you finish, no place for runners to rest and celebrate they just finished a marathon and by far the most stingy marathon – you dont get what you pay for. Dont expect to see breathtaking views, you will run mostly in the city and make sure you ready to go home as soon as you finish because they will rush you out of there
Wet, but no rain in the big pineapple
This race is a definite must do run. I attended the expo when it opened on Saturday, and there was a long line. Everything ran smoothly with a bib verification. … MORE
This race is a definite must do run. I attended the expo when it opened on Saturday, and there was a long line. Everything ran smoothly with a bib verification. You then proceeded to the shop which had plenty of memorabilia. I was told that they sold out of magnets on Friday, which sucked. You then proceeded to the rest of the expo with vendors. There were no samples of nutrition or drinks.
For Sunday, the weather was calling for showers and rain throughout. As the weather got closer to Sunday, clouds came in and the wind. I woke up early at 2:30 on account of the rain storms, which continued until I walked to the start line at 4:30. Luckily I stayed walking distance at the Ramada (highly recommend). I donned a trash bag to stay dry as I approached the starting line. As I reached the start line the running gods came and the rain stopped.
The race started promptly at 5:00 with fireworks. It was a wild free for all at the gun, as there were no gradual wave starts. Between the amount of runners and puddles, it was hard to run and had to be careful not to fall. This was particularly difficult during the out and back stretch. There was an area where the puddle was so large around mile 18, where runners had to run on the sidewalk. This created chaos, slower paces, and safety issues. As far as port a potties, there were plenty along the route. There was water/aid/gatorade at every few miles or so. There was a few gel stations along the course to maintain electrolytes. There were also many unofficial nutrition along the way with oranges, and adult beverages. Even though I don’t like out and back courses, this course made an exception given that it was completely dark for me until around mile 12. So I couldn’t see the ocean and scenery until the way back. The weather turned out to be an overall blessing as it didn’t rain on me at all and kept the intense sun behind the clouds. As far as Hawaiian spirit was concerned, I didn’t really feel the vibes too much along the course. There was more Christmas spirit with decorations and Santa’s throughout. There were a few cheering sections, most notably in downtown 5 miles in, mile 23 leaving the out and back stretch and of course as you approach the finish line. The finish line was a very gratifying experience, with a golden medal and coconut water. The post race festivities included a pink finisher shirt, Malasadas, and bananas. There should have been more nutrition such as energy bars. There was also a little shop for last souvenir opportunities. You had to walk around a half mile to get away from road closures which was not too bad. Overall, I would recommend this race.
The most over hyped race ever
I had high expectations for the honolulu marathon but it was such a disappointment. There were 35,000 runners starting all together. There’s no corrals, you just have to navigate your … MORE
I had high expectations for the honolulu marathon but it was such a disappointment. There were 35,000 runners starting all together. There’s no corrals, you just have to navigate your way through crowds. I expected the beautiful honolulu sceneries but all you see is houses and roads. The spectators and volunteers are awesome. But the organization sucks. It poured out rain and there’s no place for runners to rest. They should have prepared for the weather but it was so poorly organized. and there was zero tents to avoid rains. (Only tent was for merchandise, and I got kicked out 2 times bc I wasn’t buying any) I was soaking wet and shivering and had nowhere to go because I was waiting for my friends to finish his race as well. Anyway, I will never go back to honolulu for this race.
Great first marathon
This was my first marathon and had no idea what to expect. The weather prior to 5AM was kind of rough and I ended up hiding in a bathroom in … MORE
This was my first marathon and had no idea what to expect. The weather prior to 5AM was kind of rough and I ended up hiding in a bathroom in Ala Moana Park. Once the rain stopped I found my way to the start line and attempted to line up on my corral. The start was kind of disorganized as the only way to exit Ala Moana Park was via bridges. Due to the crowd size the bridges became one way toward Ala Moana Blvd (mall) and if you needed to go back to the bathroom you either had to hang off the bridges to cross or just not go to the bathroom. Although the starting line seemed disorganized the starting process was quick. Took me roughly 5 minutes from start gun to start line so I can’t complain. Amenities along the course were plentiful and thankfully spaced every few miles. The volunteers manning the water and aid stations did an outstanding job!! The spectators were excellent motivators and the signs were fun to read. I’m not a fan of out and backs so the stretch between Kahala and Hawaii Kai was rough but the spectators and other runners made it manageable. Again as this was my first marathon I had no expectations at the finish line and I found the finish process efficient and organized. I loved that they had separate lines for finisher shirts based on size.
Enjoyed it so much I’ve already signed up for 2026!!!
Beautiful & Fast!
Fireworks at the Start YES, Flat, fast, Beautiful, great swag, wish there was more 10k swag but all good :-) highly recommend even for all the cost!!! MORE
Fireworks at the Start YES, Flat, fast, Beautiful, great swag, wish there was more 10k swag but all good 🙂 highly recommend even for all the cost!!!
Honolulu Marathon - A Great Experience!
This was my first marathon and it was packed with Aloha spirit, personal triumphs, and stunning Hawaiian scenery! The course was challenging and definitely not a walk in the park. … MORE
This was my first marathon and it was packed with Aloha spirit, personal triumphs, and stunning Hawaiian scenery! The course was challenging and definitely not a walk in the park. I choose the 2024 Honolulu Marathon as my first marathon because I figured if you are going to run 26.2 miles, it might as well be in paradise! I definitely got the paradise piece I came for, but I did not count on the heat and humidity! Luckily, I was born in Alabama and currently live in Atlanta, Georgia, so I know a little something about heat and humidity. Lol. With that being said, if you choose to run this race, please train for the heat and humidity and plan your hydration and fueling strategy. Also, be prepared for two pretty good hills around Diamond Head Crater. This was a huge race with 30,000+ runners so logistics at the beginning of the race were a little rough, but I think the organizers did a pretty good job. The fireworks were amazing at the beginning of the rave, and the Holiday lights downtown made the start of the race very festive! I love this race. It was harder than I thought, but crossing the finish line was rewarding! The medal and swag was great as well as the malasadas at the finish line!
Aloha spirit and epic views in paradise
This was the hardest race, which I've physically ever done. It started pretty warm and humid. We had to run up and over Diamond Head after the 10k mark and … MORE
This was the hardest race, which I’ve physically ever done. It started pretty warm and humid. We had to run up and over Diamond Head after the 10k mark and again at mile 24. The race views are breathtaking. The first aid stations are plentiful and helpful. The aloha spirit is felt throughout the course. The swag was beautiful! The post race party was well managed and fun. Malasadas at the end of the race! I have never felt so proud of myself. The race expo is LARGE but well facilitated. There are over 15 minutes of fireworks at the beginning. The course is well marked. Amazing, bucket list race! Oh, they don’t have a qualifying time and they don’t sweep you. You do have to finish to get the medal and shirt. The merry mile the day prior to the race is really fun!
Wish I could've run :(
I was injured 3 weeks before the race (tripped going down the steps at home over my hubby's cat), so I didn't run. Traveled to Oahu anyways, because we have … MORE
I was injured 3 weeks before the race (tripped going down the steps at home over my hubby’s cat), so I didn’t run. Traveled to Oahu anyways, because we have grandbabies there. I went to packet pick up so that I could have the experience. It was beautiful. Beautifully decorated entrance at the convention center.
Day of race began with fireworks!! Runners were everywhere. I SO WISH I COULD HAVE PARTICIPATED!! It seemed to be very well run and organized.
First marathon- would possibly run again
Overall I liked this race, it was packed but that’s where part of the fun came from. Every part of the race you had people in all shapes and walks … MORE
Overall I liked this race, it was packed but that’s where part of the fun came from. Every part of the race you had people in all shapes and walks of life which made for a great race.
Mainly flat with a climb around mile 7 & 24(ish).
**Hot and humid race** which you should assume since it takes place on a tropical island, but I believe there were quite a few racers unprepared for the heat. Mid race was 80’s with 80% humidity. Lots of water stations, medical stations, viewers spraying people with water hoses along the way to keep everyone cool. I never saw fuel along the way, one table looked like it had stuff but had quickly ran out before half the participants even got there, so bring your own fuel.
Swag was okay, loved the medal but when I got mine it was scuffed up already and the finisher shirt snagged on everything. The expo had lots of additional options for merch just make sure you get there early and don’t wait because stuff sells out very quick.
If I get a wild hair I’d sign up again for it.
Start line fireworks
Tough race even with a 5am start. weather was warm and sun is always rough. great supportive crowd and runners were fantastic pushing as well. course was very scenic in … MORE
Tough race even with a 5am start. weather was warm and sun is always rough. great supportive crowd and runners were fantastic pushing as well. course was very scenic in 1/3rd of the race, few more hills then expected but a very good race to conquer Hawaii.
Cross another state off the list
Super chaotic start. No one paid attention to corrals so walkers and slower runners were up front at the start. Also lots of people were stopping to film the fireworks … MORE
Super chaotic start. No one paid attention to corrals so walkers and slower runners were up front at the start. Also lots of people were stopping to film the fireworks at the start. Total chaos.
Half the race is in the dark due to 5am start. Second half is an out and back that really doesn’t have much to look at.
The race is hot! And the final hill on Fiamond Back at mile 25 is ridiculous for the end of a marathon.
Paradise Delight!
The course itself is not so tough. It's the humidity and heat once the sun wakes up. So much aloha. Spectators will hose you down. Volunteers are so gracious. I … MORE
The course itself is not so tough. It’s the humidity and heat once the sun wakes up. So much aloha. Spectators will hose you down. Volunteers are so gracious. I drank sometimes 2 cups of water, gatorade.
The views are gorgeous.
No time limit race erases all pressure.
Running in paradise
The 10k starts and finishes while it’s still dark out so while you don’t get to enjoy the scenery much you do end up skipping the sun. It was already … MORE
The 10k starts and finishes while it’s still dark out so while you don’t get to enjoy the scenery much you do end up skipping the sun. It was already pretty hot and humid, and I was happy to complete the 10k! Hats off to other runners going for the full marathon. You share the course with the marathon runners for the 10k, and given the amount of people running this race, corrals were not enforced which meant dodging a lot of slower runners and walkers for almost half of the race. And the course remains busy with people for all of the 10k distance so I had to remain focused on not bumping into people. There were lots of folks cheering from the sidelines which added to the festive vibe. Overall, I still enjoyed the race. And PR’d!
Not a PR course, but good vibes.
This course was hard. I held my target pace to about 25km, but as the sun came up and the heat increased I fell off hard. I was shocked at … MORE
This course was hard. I held my target pace to about 25km, but as the sun came up and the heat increased I fell off hard. I was shocked at how many people were walking by mile 20. That final crest over Diamond head was brutal.
Amazing views and the most “major” you can get without a lottery. I’ll run it again in a few years with more prep for the heat.
Advice for first timers:
1. Get to your corral early. It was madness trying to push up to the right start pen.
2. Until the 10k split off it was very very crowded which made it difficult, lots of weaving around lost walkers.
3. Hit those water stations. The first hour and a half is in the dark but the sunrise changed everything.
4. Leave some gas in the tank for mile 24, the elevation chart downplays how hard that hill is.
The medal and race production was great, I felt like the expo was lackluster, expected more major brands to represent.
Overall, I felt like it was a great race even if it crushed me. Just go into it with appropriate expectations of the challenge.
Love this Mile with Elites afterwards
The day before the marathon, have fun testing your mile time, or just enjoying a shakeout up and down Waikiki. A group of elite men and women fight it out … MORE
The day before the marathon, have fun testing your mile time, or just enjoying a shakeout up and down Waikiki. A group of elite men and women fight it out after the mere mortals finish ours.
Pre-holiday vacation destination race
Having an early morning start (before dawn) works out well for this race because once the sun comes up it really heats up on the island. The thought that you’d … MORE
Having an early morning start (before dawn) works out well for this race because once the sun comes up it really heats up on the island. The thought that you’d miss the coastal views goes away when you realize that much of the second half is a return from earlier on the course. Other bonuses for starting early are having fireworks at the start line and seeing the Christmas lights on full display downtown over the opening miles. The crowd support was fantastic, and I was even bequeathed a homemade lei from a local child. Staying in Waikiki Beach makes it walkable to the start and back again after finishing near the zoo. This was a great race to check off the Hawaii box for my 50-state quest.
Second Half got Hot
Awesome start with a firework show that continued as runners crossed the starting line. Recommend staying where you can walk to the start as traffic is tough race morning. Prepare … MORE
Awesome start with a firework show that continued as runners crossed the starting line. Recommend staying where you can walk to the start as traffic is tough race morning. Prepare for humidity and heat but this is a fun race with no time limit. Finisher medal is beautiful.