Honolulu Marathon

The Honolulu Marathon, first run in 1973, is one of the oldest and largest destination marathons in the United States and a marquee annual event in Hawaii's running calendar. Traditionally held in mid-December to take advantage of warm tropical weather and holiday travel schedules, the race draws a diverse field of elite athletes and recreational runners from around the world. Over the decades it has become as much a celebration of aloha and island culture as a competitive road race, with many participants returning year after year to experience its unique blend of sport and spectacle. The course is scenic and runner-friendly, beginning in the early pre-dawn hours on Ala Moana Boulevard and winding through Honolulu's waterfront and residential neighborhoods, past iconic Waikiki beaches, and circling the verdant slopes of Diamond Head before finishing in Kapiolani Park with nearby views of the Pacific. Runners experience long stretches of oceanfront and palm-lined streets, occasional gentle rollers rather than steep climbs, and plenty of crowd support at key landmarks. The event atmosphere is famously festive and welcoming — volunteers and spectators hand out leis and Hawaiian hospitality, live music and cultural performances appear along the route, and the race expo and finish-area celebrations underscore the vacation-like vibe. The Honolulu Marathon is AIMS-certified and is recognized as a Boston Marathon qualifying course, making it appealing to both first-time marathoners and those chasing qualifying times. With an early 5:00 a.m. start to avoid the midday heat, comprehensive race-day support, and a well-established organizational history, the Honolulu Marathon offers a memorable and scenic marathon experience that combines competitive opportunity with the relaxed, celebratory spirit of Hawaii. The event has operated under the JAL (Japan Airlines) title sponsorship, reflecting the race's strong international and Japanese runner base.