Known as “The Gathering Place”, Oahu is the third largest of the Hawaiian islands but contains two-thirds of the state’s population. Some 80% of the island’s population live in the vibrant and scenic city of Honolulu. Running on Oahu showcases the spectacular geography of the island, which is surrounded by ocean and divided by mountain ranges.

Running highlights near Honolulu include the famous Waikiki Beach and the Diamond Head volcano. Elsewhere on Oahu, we love Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail, sections of the road from Hanauma Bay to Waimanalo, and the Kaena Point Trail.

A bus system operates 107 routes serves Honolulu and most major cities and towns on Oahu. The Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is located 10 miles from Waikiki, and six miles from downtown Honolulu.

Editor's Picks

Some of our favorite runs in Oahu, HI

Waikiki Beach

One of the iconic runs in Hawaii. This route tours the 2 mile long beach, Honolulu’s beachfront... more...

Diamond Head

A great loop around Honolulu’s most iconic landmark. Hilly, with sweeping views of Honolulu’s east side: High-end... more...

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  • Iconic Routes
  • Weather & Climate
  • Where To Stay
  • Stores & Group Runs
  • Events

Ala Wai Canal

Oahu, HI

A pleasant waterside run just north of Waikiki Beach. The Ala Wai Canal and park parallels the river. Popular among local runners for its light traffic and well maintained path. Nice add-on to Waikiki Beach run.
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Kailua Marsh Trail and Beach

Oahu, HI

Also in Kailua, this trail travels through Kawainui Marsh, which encompasses over 800 acres of beautiful wetlands. Great views of the majestic Ko’olau Mountains. Various trail and loop options.
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Honolulu has a hot, semi-arid climate with a mostly dry summer season, and a more humid winter season. Average rainfall of 17 inches occurs mainly from October through April in tropical downpours. Temperatures vary little throughout the months, with average high temperatures of 80–90 °F and average lows of 65–75 °F. Honolulu has an average of 278 sunny days and 90 rainy days per year.1-sd09kgy5t8xpeg2kyt-e8a

If you want to be at the heart of all the action, then Waikiki is the place for you. There’s an abundance of hotels within walking distance of the beach. All of the iconic routes (Ala Moana Park and Magic Island, Waikiki Beach, Kalanianaole Highway, Diamond Head, and Ala Wai Canal) are easily accessible if you chose to stay in this area.

Where to Stay Hawaii

Running Stores and Group Runs

Running Room Kapahulu Avenue. A Store for Runners… By Runners.

Runners Hi Kamehameha Hwy. Weekly Run on Tuesdays at 5:30 PM at Runner’s Hi.

Central Oahu Jogging Clinic Organized by the Department of Parks & Recreation this training group meets on 6am Sunday mornings.

Runners Route Kapiolani Blvd. Largest specialty running store in Hawaii. Host 4-7 mile group run every Tuesday 5:30PM.

Uyeda Shoe Store University Ave. Family-run shoe store with sporty & informal brand-name selections.

The Ultimate Foot Store Ala Moana Blvd. Top quality foot products, with expert advice and service. They specialize in helping runners with injuries and ailments.

Be Fit Kailua Kailua. About a 20 minute drive from the city of Honolulu, but the outstanding customer service you’ll receive from owners Jeff and Lisa make it worth the time and gas.

Running events in Honolulu tend to draw smaller and more international crowds. Experience the running community by joining a race!

Events Calendars #1

Events Calendar #2.

Some of the major events are:

Honolulu Marathon December.

The Hapalua April. Half Marathon.

Great Aloha Run February. 8.15 mile run from Aloha Tower to Aloha Stadium

Banana Man Chase 5K May. Hawaii’s wackiest race where participants chase life size bananas around the beautiful Ala Moana Beach Park and Magic Island.

Ford Island Bridge 10K April.

Hawaii Pacific Health Women’s 10K March. Women only event around Diamond Head and through Kahala and returning to Kapiolani Park.

Pineapple Run 10K May. Run through the hills of beautiful Wahiawa and the surrounding pineapple fields. Don`t forget to pick up your free pineapple at the finish!