For everyone who’s not in these elite groups — which is nearly all of us, right? — the course offers up plenty of gorgeous Hawaiian scenery, from the starting line near the Duke Kahanamoku Statue on Kalakaua Avenue (named for the five-time Olympic medalist in swimming who was later one of the earliest popularizers of surfing). From there, runners head west and north along Kalakaua Avenue and Ala Moana Boulevard, all the way to the turn on Smith Street.
After that, runners head back down Ala Moana down the route they’ve just run, all the way to Diamond Head Crater State Monument, where they’ll run all the way around the 475-acre park that circles what is perhaps Honolulu’s most famous site. Called a tuff volcano for the rock it is made of, Diamond Head erupted some 300,000 years ago, leaving the crater we know today, which is now filled with hiking trails and some of Hawaii’s most spectacular views.
“The race is organized by the Honolulu Marathon, and much of the course is the same as the marathon course — it is very scenic and takes your through Honolulu and then around Diamond Head.
“The race begins in Waikiki Beach and goes through the streets of Honolulu, taking in downtown. You’ll run past iconic buildings such as the Ionali Palace, which is the only royal palace in the United States.
“Going back toward Waikiki and down Kalakaua Avenue, the course remains flat until mile 9 when there is a incline going around the volcanic crater of Diamond Head. The course ends in Kapiolani Park at the Honolulu Marathon finish line where the post-race food is malasadas. To cool down, walk 100 yards to the ocean! Unforgettable.
