The 2024 Honolulu Marathon is set to take place on December 8th, starting at 5:00 a.m. in the beautiful city of Honolulu, Hawaii. As the fourth largest marathon in the United States, following the prestigious races in New York, Chicago, and Boston, this event draws participants from all over the world!
One of the unique features of the Honolulu Marathon is that there is no time limit, making it accessible for everyone. Many participants choose to walk part or all of the course, ensuring that anyone can finish and enjoy the experience. Runners will have the chance to take in the stunning scenery while connecting with fellow marathoners from all 50 states and over 40 different countries.
Get ready to embrace the spirit of 'Aloha' and create lasting memories at the Honolulu Marathon!
🎒 What should I pack?
Packing for race day is crucial. It's important to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything vital, well in advance of leaving for the start line. Here’s some things to consider:
Running Kit: We suggest wearing your race-day outfit on the morning of your race, in case there aren’t any changing facilities. Top tip: pin your number onto your clothing the night before, so you're prepped and ready to go!
Sports Nutrition: Pack any gels, chews, or snacks you’ve used in training. There may be snacks or drinks handed out on the course, but it's always advised to have your own fuel at hand!
Electronics: Charge your phone, watch, and headphones the night before. Download any necessary playlists which will get you through those miles!
Sun Cream: Remember to pack a small tube of SPF. With temperatures typically around 25 to 28 degrees, you'll want to protect your skin from the sun to avoid getting burned.
A pre-run layer: It is a good idea to bring an old jumper to the start line to keep warm, especially in the early hours of the morning. Please note that there will be NO Clothing Check-In at the START Area on Race Day. Any clothing left or discarded at the start area will be donated to charity.
Drop Bag: Pack a warm top, spare socks, blister plasters, and a recovery snack for after the race. Please see extra information on your bag drop from the official race organisers below:
BAG DROP AT FINISH LINE ONLY
The Clothing Check-In is in Kapiolani Park in the Finish Area and opens for drop off on Saturday, Dec 7, 10AM-5PM. Your belongings must be placed in a clear official bag labelled with your running number which you collect at packet pick-up. Only officially labelled bags will be accepted at the Clothing Check-In tent. Bags not collected by 3 pm will be donated to charity.
🎽 How do I collect my race bib and where is the Expo located?
Please see the below information from the official race organisers:
Expo and Packet Pick Up will be at the Hawaii Convention Center, 1801 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Thursday, December 5, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday, December 6 – 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday, December 7 – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Packet pick-up
All participants must collect their own race bibs from the Expo at the Hawaii Convention Center.
There is no race day pick up service and the Expo closes at 5pm sharp on Saturday December 7. Race bibs cannot be picked up by someone else on your behalf.
During race week all participants will receive an email with their Bib Number.
Please bring this email to the Expo to show to the staff at packet pick up. This will help speed up the collection process. If you lose or forget your email, we will have monitors for you to look up your race number.
Official Merchandise
Official merchandise will be available next to packet pick up.
Late entries are accepted at the Expo up until 5 PM on Saturday, December 7.
During race week, entrants will receive an email with their unique bib number. Please bring the bib number email on your mobile device or printed out, to facilitate packet pick-up at the Expo.
Registered runners must pick up their race packs, which include the running bib number and timing chip. Bring valid ID to the packet pickup. Participants must pick up their own race packs. No one will be able to pick up a race pack for a friend or family member.
The Help Desk will be able to resolve any problems you have with your registration such as change of address or other issues.
Check out any further information from the official website here!
👀 Should I Run the day before?
Pre-race rituals vary from one runner to the next, some runners find that a short, easy run the day before a race helps shake out the legs and calm the nerves. If this has worked for you in the past, go for it! If not, consider a walk to keep those legs fresh, or even some light foam rolling or stretching instead - listen to your body!
We'll be checking out The Kalakaua Merrie Mile - an epic one-mile race in Waikiki and part of the Honolulu Marathon weekend! This is an official event hosted by the Honolulu Marathon organisers, so you must enter in order to collect your bib the day before and then take part on Saturday 07th December. The Runna Team can't wait to be there!
Register for The Kalakaua Merrie Mile here.
🍝 What should I eat on the lead up to the race?
During the week leading up to your race, keep it simple with high-carb, familiar foods like pasta, rice, bread, and potatoes to keep energy up and your stomach happy. Carb-loading can help you feel fuelled without overdoing it: spread your carbs throughout the day and stick with foods you’ve enjoyed in training. Avoid anything too fatty, spicy, or brand new—it’s not the time for surprises! Stay well-hydrated, and skip alcohol for a good night’s sleep. Rest, hydrate, and feel ready to hit the ground running!
We've got some more information on race week nutrition here!
🚃 How do I get to the start line?
Start Location: Ala Moana Boulevard/Queen Street Extension
Finish Location: Kapiolani Park
Walking is recommended if you are coming from Waikiki.
Start: 5:00 AM on Sunday, December 10, 2023
Note that all start groups start at 5:00 AM.
Road Closures: No entry to the Starting Line Area from in front of the Starting Line. All participants must enter from Piikoi St or the back entrance off of Atkinson Dr or from Waikiki. This policy will be strictly enforced due to our new security measures.
There are complimentary shuttles running from the Honolulu Zoo to the Start from 2 AM – 4 AM. Board early and don’t wait for the last shuttle as there may not be room for you.
Check that your hotel is not closer to the start-line than the shuttle pickup point.
Note that the shuttles are limited and cannot guarantee they will get you to the start on time. The start line closes at 5:30am and all participants must have crossed the line by that time.
We suggest planning your journey to the start line well in advance! It's a good idea to get down early, especially if you’re starting close to the front.
Check out more information regarding the start line according to your group colour (also on your bib), from the official race organisers here!
🗺 Where will I be running?
The course goes through downtown Honolulu, past Iolani Palace and the Christmas lights, through Waikiki and climbs up and around Diamond Head, before heading out through Kahala and out to Hawaii Kai. Turning back after Hawaii Kai toward Kahala and Honolulu, the course passes Diamond Head again on the ocean side before finishing in Kapiolani Park.
As you make your way through those miles, take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views. The sights of the ocean, incredible landscapes, and iconic landmarks will make this an unforgettable experience!
Honolulu Marathon Official Website
Race Organisers were able to provide Live Tracking for spectators to follow participants in Honolulu Marathon 2023. Keep your eyes peeled for updates on whether this will be possible this year via the official website!
🐌 How should I pace myself on race day?
You’ll have the opportunity to fully utilise the race day workout provided by Runna. Expect pacing alerts and audio cues similar to those during your training runs, helping you stay on track. Pacing can be tricky with the excitement of the start line. To avoid going out too fast, practice your race-day routine during your shakeout run. Download your playlists, set up Runna for pace or RPE cues, and ensure your devices are fully charged.
The course is mostly flat, with short uphill grades up and down Diamond Head. We suggest starting off at a comfortable pace with the aim of a negative split if possible once you've hit that halfway mark. The support along the route is incredible, and you'll truly enjoy the experience! Try not to worry about what other runners are doing, focus on your race, and listen to the crowds who will be rooting for you the whole way round.
Here are a few more tips on marathon pacing for you too!
🛰️ How should I navigate GPS issues on the day?
With so many runners, GPS signals can sometimes be spotty. Stick to your usual method of recording your runs on Runna, it's a good idea to rely on the pace markers and your own instincts regarding your marathon pace! Be prepared for a possible delay in uploading your race data, if you encounter issues, save your activity and refresh your app when you have a stronger signal or Wi-Fi!
🎖️ What's next after crossing the finish line?
You did it! Now it's time to celebrate! Grab a drink, loosen your shoelaces, and take some time to stretch and enjoy the moment.
Best of luck with your Honolulu Marathon, and most importantly, have fun!
Take in the sights and have the best time - we will be with you every step of the way.
Check out the video below for more of our top tips for race day from our Runna coaches!