The Maui Marathon presented by The Westin Maui Resort & Spa will return to Ka’anapali Resort in 2025! All events will start and finish in Ka’anapali from the exact location as in the past, in front of the Outrigger Ka’anapali Beach Resort. The new Full Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K …
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The Maui Marathon presented by The Westin Maui Resort & Spa will return to Ka’anapali Resort in 2025! All events will start and finish in Ka’anapali from the exact location as in the past, in front of the Outrigger Ka’anapali Beach Resort. The new Full Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K course will be an out-and-back on the Honoapiilani Hwy (Route 30). The turnaround will be around Papalaua Wayside State Park. The 5K will remain the same course with no changes from previous years. For full marathon runners, this will be a flatter and faster course with ocean views along much of the course. On behalf of the Maui Marathon committee members, we are incredibly pleased to have the Maui Marathon back in Ka’anapali.
The Maui Marathon event is the longest consecutively held running event in the state of Hawaii, the oldest marathon west of the Mississippi River! It has been chosen as one of the top 10 Most Scenic Marathons in the nation by Runner’s World magazine (Feb. 96), and the #10 destination marathon in North America, by the Ultimate Guide to Marathons. More recently, our half marathon was voted the “Best Jaw-Dropping, Breathtaking, I’m-Never-Going-Back-to-Work Running Trips to Take” by Runners World Magazine (Jan. 2020).
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Beautiful views, relatively flat.
Hot is the morning! Beautiful views! Great way for us to kick off our vacation! We'll be back for another one! Bring your own water pack so you don't have … MORE
Hot is the morning! Beautiful views! Great way for us to kick off our vacation! We’ll be back for another one! Bring your own water pack so you don’t have to stop
Maui Wow Wee
Overall rating: 3.75 Pros -The shuttle from Whalers Village to the start line was very convenient. It was a 40 minute ride so I was able to get a little … MORE
Overall rating: 3.75
Pros
-The shuttle from Whalers Village to the start line was very convenient. It was a 40 minute ride so I was able to get a little shut eye before the 5 am start.
-Volunteers at the aid stations were extremely nice and supportive.
-Spectacular views.
Cons
-As other reviews have mentioned, there are sections in the race where the shoulder was close to on coming traffic and extremely narrow. Also very loud and dusty as the cars are driving only a few feet from you.
-Post race snacks were disappointing. Goldfish crackers and Nature Valley granola bars. I think some type of protein drink or bar should be offered.
-Disappointing that all medals are the same for each race distance.
Among top 5/200 halves I have run.
Starting location was top notch for comfort, amenities, bathroom access, shade, drinks, etc. Outstanding course services and quality of volunteers, attitude, and Aloha spirit. Waiting for runners to come in … MORE
Starting location was top notch for comfort, amenities, bathroom access, shade, drinks, etc. Outstanding course services and quality of volunteers, attitude, and Aloha spirit. Waiting for runners to come in was fun and congenial and have made new friends from several locations. Outstanding!
Maui is a Must Do!
Everything was memorable and remarkable- awesome shirt, medal, aide stations, organization, volunteers, and race director! The Expo was had the most beautiful hats, shirts, shorts, and gear I’ve ever seen … MORE
Everything was memorable and remarkable- awesome shirt, medal, aide stations, organization, volunteers, and race director! The Expo was had the most beautiful hats, shirts, shorts, and gear I’ve ever seen at an Expo. The volunteers were friendly and helpful. The process of packet pickup was seamless!
Well Organized and Scenic
Start: 5AM is great to avoid the sun for the first couple hours. Aid stations: Great. There were plenty (17 or 18 I think). Gels were offerred at a few … MORE
Start: 5AM is great to avoid the sun for the first couple hours.
Aid stations: Great. There were plenty (17 or 18 I think). Gels were offerred at a few near the end. I like the collapsible cup they offerred (although I brought a reusable squeeze bottle so that I could carry a little more volume).
Packet Pickup: No issues. Offerring previous year tech shirts for a major discount is awesome.
Parking and shuttles: as advertised and adequate!
Communications: Lots of emails prior to the race with useful information.
Course: Aside from a few tight stretches, the shoulder is adequate for the number of runners (~300 for the marathon). More than that and it might be an issue. A small improvement would be to make the course match the Maui Oceanfront one so that it hugs the water the entire way, but I didn’t mind running the interior part that much overall.
Magnificent Maui Half!
Pre race: Easy registration process. Communication was clear and direct. They keep you very well informed with a monthly newsletter. Cost was reasonable-$120. Free parking for packet pickup. I was … MORE
Pre race: Easy registration process. Communication was clear and direct. They keep you very well informed with a monthly newsletter. Cost was reasonable-$120. Free parking for packet pickup. I was there early, so no issues for me. Limited race merchandise available for purchase. Cost of things were reasonable. Race shirt was ok-short sleeved, tech material. Loved that this was a cup less race! Inside the race bag you got a cup to use. No running store on the island, so come prepared!
Race day: I had a difficult time finding the parking at the civic center. Finally saw a school bus and followed it. No charge and a relatively short drive to the starting line. I got there early. Later, the line for the porta-potties was a mad house. They should’ve had more! Race start was 530 which was really nice! Course was super flat with just a couple small inclines. Views were breathtaking! Not much crowd support at all. At the turn around point, the sun was at your back which was awesome! Not many photographers. Water and medic stops were sufficient. No cover or shade. This was my 84th half marathon and by far the HOTTEST! First half of the race was perfection until they sun made its appearance!!🥵🥵
The last several miles, I didn’t feel safe. We were running on a very narrow shoulder and the traffic lane wasn’t shut down. The medal was pretty underwhelming, but ok. No good post racevtreats-I was hoping for shave ice as hot as it was!! 😋😋 I would’ve ranked this race a 5 if they would’ve at least shut down 1 of the traffic lanes. It is one of my favorite races. I’ll be back for the 10k!
Hot with Occasional Hills
This race is incredibly well-produced. Logistics were easy, bus trip to start very early but smooth. Volunteers absolutely FABULOUS!!!! Finish line fully open for back-of-the-pack runners and the cupless aid … MORE
This race is incredibly well-produced. Logistics were easy, bus trip to start very early but smooth. Volunteers absolutely FABULOUS!!!! Finish line fully open for back-of-the-pack runners and the cupless aid stations with reusable cups really AMAZING. Water and Gatorade ice cold and fully stocked and offered multiple times which is good because the down side is, as you might’ve expect in Hawaii, it was HOT by the end.
The course is quite beautiful but having the road open to traffic was tough for me to take after awhile. Noisy and in some places QUITE close to the shoulder where we were running. (I totally get on this island that it would be impossible to close the road…)
Wonder if they would ever consider making this a midnight run under a full moon? The stars over the ocean would be amazing and I wouldn’t have melted in my shoes.
Seriously, though. It’s a well-produced race in warm but very beautiful place. Mahalo, Maui!
Beautiful race, mostly oceanside.
This is a fun race. If it's your first half marathon, DO IT! The course is not challenging, the terrain is pretty much flat with tiny elevation change. The scenery … MORE
This is a fun race. If it’s your first half marathon, DO IT! The course is not challenging, the terrain is pretty much flat with tiny elevation change. The scenery is beautiful as most of the run is right alongside the ocean. The return back to the finish line thru Lahina can get warm, so definitely stay hydrated.
This is the best race event on maui
Don’t forget to look up. The views are spectacular. This event is well organized by fun local volunteers. The swag was nice too. I’m local and look forward to this … MORE
Don’t forget to look up.
The views are spectacular.
This event is well organized by fun local volunteers.
The swag was nice too.
I’m local and look forward to this event every year.
VIRR are a lovely group of CNN local runners who support this event.
Maui Marathon, I always enjoy ....🌺🌺
I have participated in the Maui Marathon events since 2016.Of those events I have run 10 k , half marathon , on 2019 marathon and 2022 marathon.I took first place … MORE
I have participated in the Maui Marathon events since 2016.Of those events I have run 10 k , half marathon , on 2019 marathon and 2022 marathon.I took first place in two of these marathons in my age category . I love this race , I always enjoy the views, many people cheers runners , and most importantly my son and husband follow me , they give me water and cheer me.
The best part of Marathon is for me Honoapiilani Hwy , I love the views, and most importantly you can see whales.
Early 5K race means you beat the heat!
I have participated in the Maui Marathon events since 2016. Of those events I have run the 5K and half marathon distances. Although I enjoy the route and views for … MORE
I have participated in the Maui Marathon events since 2016. Of those events I have run the 5K and half marathon distances. Although I enjoy the route and views for the half marathon more, I prefer the 5K since it means I get to watch the finishers of all races, oh and and less training for me.
During race weekend there was a packet pick-up (it was very small due to covid restrictions just being lifted in March 2022). On Saturday there were also free shakeout run and yoga events (it was timed so you could go to both if you wanted).
On race day, all of the races start early with the 5K starting last at 5:55am. You want your races to start early in Hawaii because it will get hot and will probably be humid. It’s great that this race is now in April instead of October, since April is a bit cooler.
About half of the 5K route is on Ka’anapali Parkway with golf course views and a lane closed for runners, once you get out to HI30 (which is an active road but is coned off) it’s relatively flat as you run towards Hanakao’o Park to the turn around point.
For 2022, the finish line had packaged snacks since there were still Covid protocols in place and I appreciated that. I loved listening to the announcer say people’s names/where they were from as they crossed the finish line. There are overall and age group awards for all of the races, for 2022 they moved the Award Ceremony to the finish line area which was much more convenient.
I will definitely be back!
Beautiful running route
The race starts too early otherwise it’s a great race. Awesome volunteer and beautiful ocean view through out the race. Great vacation race to do as it’s so close to … MORE
The race starts too early otherwise it’s a great race. Awesome volunteer and beautiful ocean view through out the race. Great vacation race to do as it’s so close to everything.
Let’s do it AGAIN!
The scenery what beautiful! The weather was perfect. This was my first half, so I chose somewhere amazing!!! I wanted to run under 2 hours but finished in 2:07…. My … MORE
The scenery what beautiful! The weather was perfect. This was my first half, so I chose somewhere amazing!!! I wanted to run under 2 hours but finished in 2:07…. My family showed up a few days before so I can jog the course and get a feel of what to expect. A RUN-CATION in Maui yes please!! I want to win so I can bring my team next year! I had a great time but what I thought was missing at the end was more small bites and beer.
A Marathon in Paradise
Running downhill with a tailwind is great, but it doesn't last forever. This course starts with a barely noticeable downhill, then gives you a little more push as you go. … MORE
Running downhill with a tailwind is great, but it doesn’t last forever. This course starts with a barely noticeable downhill, then gives you a little more push as you go. As you get close to the south coast, you get a moderate climb, then mixed uphill and downhill, then flat for the second half. The scenery is a variety of what’s on the island. Farms, lava fields, beaches, and then the tourist resorts. You get to run down Lahaina’s famous Front Street when it’s nearly deserted – a rare sight – and through the only tunnel on Maui. The 5 am start is to avoid the heat as much as possible, but it still gets uncomfortable before you’re done. At least the humidity is mild and the scenery is a beautiful distraction. Race production was excellent from packet pickup to post-race buses. Even though the highways are open to traffic and you run on a narrow shoulder at times, I found drivers to be careful, courteous, and many gave supportive horn honks and cheers as they passed.
Great views, its Hawaii
All in all the course was pretty flat, one small hill around mile 5-6. Views of the ocean were amazing. Temps were warm (mid 70s) and very humid, but there … MORE
All in all the course was pretty flat, one small hill around mile 5-6. Views of the ocean were amazing. Temps were warm (mid 70s) and very humid, but there is always a breeze to help cool you down a little. no expo, just packet pick up and can buy a few race items. there are no running stores on the island so if you need fuel or gear you might be out of luck
Beautiful minimalist race
Feedback from pre- to post-race: EXPO: No expo, just packet pickup and race swag store. Poorly organized in a room much too small. Runners receive a bib and t-shirt and … MORE
Feedback from pre- to post-race:
EXPO: No expo, just packet pickup and race swag store. Poorly organized in a room much too small. Runners receive a bib and t-shirt and reusable tote/shopping bag. No extras but some nice gear for purchase.
RACE SHUTTLE: This part stressed me out the most in the planning process but ended up being smooth. Plenty of shuttles available and I could’ve slept an extra 30-45 minutes if it weren’t for my anxiety!
START: 5am start was great for those of us used to running in the cold winter months but dark and unable to appreciate any of the scenery until the sun started to rise an hour later
RACE: Coming around a bend to see the coast and the sunrise was probably the most epic part of the course and made the dark first hour worthwhile. Running the curvy coastline was my favorite part. Cons: Spectators are practically nonexistent so it’s a very quiet race for those who feed off the excitement of the crowd. The course is almost entirely along a highway so there is constant traffic driving alongside of you (except briefly through Lahaina). It is hot in Maui 🥵 but it was also very windy on race day so that gave some reprieve, although adding difficulty at times.
POST: Minimal photography which is kind of unfortunate for such a beautiful course. Tiny bag of snacks (banana, granola bar, goldfish) and cups of water at finish. Post-race party required extra $$ and pre-purchase of ticket for entry. This was not a cheap entry fee so definitely felt like they could’ve provided more for finishers.
A wonderful way to experience Maui.
This very well may be the most scenic marathon you'll ever run. Super positive and supportive aid stations. Very well organized. If you're not used to humidity be prepared :) MORE
This very well may be the most scenic marathon you’ll ever run. Super positive and supportive aid stations. Very well organized. If you’re not used to humidity be prepared 🙂
Beautiful running along the ocean
You're in Maui... I mean, it doesn't get any better than that! The half marathon course starts and finishes in Ka'anapali (not sure where the full starts; all I know … MORE
You’re in Maui… I mean, it doesn’t get any better than that! The half marathon course starts and finishes in Ka’anapali (not sure where the full starts; all I know is you have to be bused there and I didn’t do it!) it’s a little dark when you start at 5:30am, but once the sun comes up, you are treated to amazing ocean views and volcanic mountains. The half marathon course runs through the town of Lahaina, and then after 6.5 miles, it turns around so you run back the same way you came. At some point the full marathoners merge in with you. The course is entirely flat, no hills at all. Very minimal spectators on the streets to cheer you on, but MANY aid stations, practically every mile I think, with water and Gatorade to choose from. The finish line is nice, and they call out your name as you cross. There are virtually no post-race goodies, save for some sliced up bananas and pineapple, so you’ll have to rely on your own post-race refueling. The medal was cool! The Expo the day before was in a small banquet hall of the Westin. Get there early when it opens up at 9:00am if you want to purchase some Maui Marathon swag, because after about an hour, most sizes are gone. The shirts that come with the registration are not technical, but they are nicely designed and durable. I’d highly recommend this race, because I mean, you’re in Maui! While your other friends are bundled up for their fall marathons, you can send back pics of you with your medal in front of the ocean. It just doesn’t get any better than that!
Gorgeous flat course
This was such a beautiful race on a gorgeous part of this awesome Hawaiian island. Half the race was along the ocean and had great views of so many animals. … MORE
This was such a beautiful race on a gorgeous part of this awesome Hawaiian island. Half the race was along the ocean and had great views of so many animals. This was my #1 all time favorite race.