Summary
For many of Oahu’s runners, happy hour takes on a whole new meaning. Every weekday evening and weekend morning, you can find thousands of runners out enjoying the beauty of Honolulu and working on their fitness. Honolulu is home to some of the most beautiful running routes, and the climate of Hawaii makes it ideal for year-round training. Here are the top five running routes of Honolulu.
1. Kapiolani Park
Located just east of Waikiki, off Kalakaua Ave., Kapiolani Park serves as the athletic hub of Honolulu and is home to the start and finish of many local running races.
You can frequently observe people participating in yoga classes, soccer practice, fitness camps, or pick-up frisbee games. However, the most popular activity remains running around the park.
The perimeter of Kapiolani Park is sidewalk-lined and frequented by runners at all hours. If you prefer a shorter route, simply run the perimeter of the main park. For a more extended challenge, continue your run around Diamond Head.
Scattered water fountains, approximately every quarter mile near restrooms, are an added convenience. Parking can be quite limited on weekends, so arriving early is advisable!
2. Diamond Head
Adjacent to Kapiolani Park is Diamond Head Road. Many runners extend their route beyond Kapiolani Park, running the loop around Diamond Head. This route, part of the Honolulu Marathon course, takes you uphill, revealing sweeping views of the East side of Honolulu.
Upon reaching Fort Ruger Park, turn left to continue down Diamond Head Road and return to Kapiolani Park. Be sure to look for water fountains located by the lookout, Fort Ruger Park, and Kapiolani Community College.
3. Ala Moana Park and Magic Island
Just west of Waikiki, near Ala Moana Center, lies Ala Moana Park. This park features a beach alongside a grassy area, bustling with Oahu athletes during evenings and weekends. A network of sidewalks allows you to run along the beach and throughout the main park and Magic Island.
If you prefer a short run, circle Magic Island, enjoying views of Ala Moana Beach and Waikiki Beach. For a longer run, continue around the perimeter of Ala Moana Park. Look for water fountains located every few hundred meters.
4. Kakaako Waterfront Park
Just west of Ala Moana Park lies Kakaako Waterfront Park, offering similar waterfront views but in a quieter environment. Here, you can observe cruise ships arriving at port or occasionally spot a bodysurfer catching a wave. The cobblestone pathway runs parallel to the water and transitions into an asphalt path leading to gentle hills throughout the park.
Water fountains are conveniently located every few hundred meters along the waterfront side of the park.
5. Ala Wai River and Park
Just north of Waikiki lies the Ala Wai River and Park. A popular sidewalk follows the river along Ala Wai Boulevard, making it favored by local runners. While exercising, you can enjoy watching paddlers in their outrigger canoes.
If you wish to make a loop run, continue east along the Ala Wai until reaching Kapahulu Avenue, then turn left to run alongside the golf course. Continue left on Date Street, running through Ala Wai Park, and then turn left on McCully Street to cross the Ala Wai and complete your loop. Note that water fountains are limited, so carrying a water bottle is recommended.
