Feel the Aloha breeze and ride through Honolulu
The Honolulu Marathon, which began in 1973, was started with the idea that running a long distance full marathon at a leisurely pace is good for the rehabilitation and prevention of heart disease, and can be considered the original “healthy citizen marathon.” The Honolulu Marathon, held in one of the world’s leading resort areas, starts at Ala Moana Park and runs along a scenic seaside course that passes through the well-known Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and Kapiolani Park, making it a dream race that everyone wants to run at least once. When the race first began, there were only about 100 participants, but now it attracts over 30,000 participants every year.
There is a road that I want to run on at least once: the Honolulu Marathon
The Honolulu Marathon is a dream stage that runners from all over the world aspire to.
Beautiful nature, warm Aloha spirit, and a sense of accomplishment.
All of this is waiting for you!
Course Overview
・Starting point：The starting point, where runners are filled with excitement, is near the intersection of Ala Moana Boulevard and Queen Street in the center of Honolulu.
The 42.195km drama begins with the sunrise.
・Downtown：Run through downtown lined with historical buildings and feel the history of Honolulu!
・Iolani Palace：Iolani Palace tells the history of the Hawaiian monarchy. During the Christmas season, the illuminations shine and create a fantastic atmosphere.
・Waikiki：The world-famous Waikiki Beach. Enjoy an exhilarating run while looking at the beautiful sand and blue sea!
・Diamond Head：Diamond Head, the symbol of Honolulu. Once you get over the challenging hill, a spectacular view awaits you!
・Kahala：The road to Hawaii Kai, passing through the upscale residential area of Kahala, is surrounded by lush nature.
・Hawaii Kai：Hawaii Kai has beautiful scenery, including a yacht harbor and a marina.
・Finish point：The emotional finish is at Kapiolani Park, located on the eastern edge of Waikiki.Runners who pass through the finish gate are filled with a sense of accomplishment and excitement.
Elevation difference and temperature
・Elevation difference：The course is generally flat, but there is an uphill section near Diamond Head.
・Temperature：Honolulu in December has a warm average temperature of around 25°C, making it the perfect climate for a marathon.
️Participant comments:
“I was nervous because it was my first overseas marathon, but I was moved by the warm support from the sidelines!”
“The hill at Diamond Head was tough, but the sense of accomplishment when I reached the top was amazing!”
“It felt really good to run while looking at the view of Waikiki!”
“I think the Honolulu Marathon is a special event for runners.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Honolulu Marathon is to manage your pace during the dark, cooler early hours. Don’t let the excitement of the fireworks push you too fast in the first few miles. Save your strength for the two climbs over Diamond Head, especially the second one at mile 24. Hydration is critical as the Hawaiian sun intensifies after 8:00 AM. Embrace the “Aloha spirit,” interact with the crowds, and enjoy the lack of a time limit to ensure you reach Kapiolani Park with a smile.
The Honolulu Marathon is a 42.195km journey that will thrill all your senses. Run through a paradise filled with enthusiastic cheers and tropical beauty, and experience the greatest thrill and sense of accomplishment of your life.
2025 Honolulu Marathon Summary
・DATE：December 14, 2025
・FINISHERS： –
・Average Time： –
MEN
1: Weldlibanos Tsegay: 2:13:38
2: Haileselassie Yemane: 2:14:28
3: Kiplagat Patrick Ketter: 2:14:56
4: Tewelde Tesfu: 2:15:40
5: Mesel Amanuel: 2:20:06
6: Nakatake Taiki: 2:23:07
7: Payne Ben: 2:34:26
8: Okutsu Taishi: 2:35:18
9: Raneri John: 2:39:10
10: Fukazawa Tetsuya: 2:39:15
WOMEN
1: Hauger-Thackery Calli: 2:30:43
2: Limo Cynthia: 2:31:32
3: Chumba Eunice: 2:35:36
4: Chepkurui Vibian: 2:40:45
5: Takinami Mio: 2:49:59
6: Suzuki Eri: 2:50:56
7: Yoshitomi Hiroko: 2:54:32
8: Dermentzoglou Helena: 2:55:35
9: Arizuka Mai: 2:58:10
10: Floris Lauren: 3:00:41
2026 Honolulu Marathon
Calling all runners out there, this 42.195km race is a thrilling experience for you. Join fellow runners from around the world as you run through the paradise of Hawaii, breaking your personal best and experiencing the spirit of Aloha.
・Location：Ala Moana Boulevard, Queen Street
・Date and Time：December 13, 2026
・Race Start：5:00 a.m.
Paradise Honolulu: A city of sunshine and diverse charm
Located on the southern coast of Oahu, a paradise in the Pacific Ocean, Honolulu is one of the world’s leading resort cities, where diverse charms blossom under the dazzling sun. Its charm lies in its breathtakingly beautiful nature, its profound history and culture, and its warm aloha spirit that captivates its visitors.
Waikiki Beach, which is synonymous with Honolulu, is attractive for its endless white sand and crystal blue sea. Here, you can try marine sports such as surfing, SUP, and canoeing, and experience the exhilaration of riding the waves.
Also, if you climb the hiking trail of Diamond Head, you will be greeted by a spectacular view of the cityscape of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. The view from the top of the mountain is truly breathtaking. The contrast between the sky and the sea dyed in the morning and evening sun will be etched in your mind as a lifelong memory.
Honolulu is also a city where Hawaii’s history and culture remain strong. Iolani Palace is a valuable historical site that tells the history of the Hawaiian monarchy and conveys the glory of that time.
Pearl Harbor was the site of World War II, and many people visit with prayers for peace. It will be an opportunity to think deeply about peace while feeling the weight of history.
At the Honolulu Museum of Art, you can appreciate traditional Hawaiian crafts and art works. At the Polynesian Cultural Center, you can experience various Polynesian cultures and feel the diversity of Hawaii.
Honolulu is also known as a city of gourmet and shopping. You can taste fresh seafood, Hawaiian cuisine, and cuisine from all over the world.
In addition, large shopping malls such as Ala Moana Center offer a wide variety of products, from brand-name goods to souvenirs. In between shopping, we recommend tasting delicious coffee at a cafe or looking for a bargain at a local aloha shirt specialty store.
Honolulu is a special city that combines various attractions such as nature, history, culture, gourmet food, and shopping.
Whatever your reason for visiting, you’re sure to find something to satisfy you, so come and experience Honolulu for yourself and we’re sure you’ll have an unforgettable vacation.
