What is the Hapalua?

The Hapalua is Hawaii’s biggest and best half marathon, with over 10,000 entrants taking part every year. It’s organised by the team behind the world-famous Honolulu Marathon, so you are guaranteed an outstanding experience from the moment you enter to the moment you cross the finish line.

When is the Hapalua?

The 2020 edition of the Hapalua takes place on 5th April.

What does Hapalua mean?

Hapalua literally means ‘half’ in the Hawaiian language. It’s pronounced ‘hah-pah-loo-ah’ and is derived from the word ‘hapa’ which means ‘part’, and ‘lua’ which means two. This works for other fractions in the Hawaiian language as well - for example, add ‘ha’ for a quarter - ‘hapaha’.

What is the Hapalua Expo?

All runners need to attend the Hapalua Expo to pick up their bib number and timing chip. You’ll also get pins to attach your race number with, a race t-shirt, and a handy Hapalua bag. There will also be a range exhibitors, so this is the perfect opportunity to pick up any last-minute race day kit you need for the event.

Race packets cannot be sent to you via post, so make sure you arrange to pay the Expo a visit.

Hapalua route

The Hapalua course sets off from Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki, then turns onto Ala Moana Boulevard for some stunning ocean views. Runners will then make their way through downtown Honolulu, before looping back through Waikiki and on to Diamond Head. After the loop around Diamond Head, the route finishes along Kalakaua Avenue leading into Kapiolani Park.

The course is nice and flat, with just one climb around the nine mile mark when runners reach Diamond Head.

You can view a full map of the course here .

Did you know: The start line is by the statue of Duke Kahanamoku in Waikiki, who is seen as the founder of modern surfing. Runners will also pass by the statue again at mile eight.

The Hapalua after party

Keeping in the Aloha Spirit, the party atmosphere doesn’t stop when you reach the finish line. In fact, things are only just getting started! You’ll finish in Kapiolani Park where you’ll see yourself finish on the big screen, before being handed your amazing all-important medal.

The finish line festival is where you can celebrate your achievement with your fellow runners, enjoying live music, fresh Malasadas and delicious Shave Ice.

What is the time limit for the Haplua?

The Hapalua has no time limit, so if you want to take your time to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the course you are free to do so. The weather will be nice and cool when the race starts at 6:00am, but temperatures rise to 26°C (80°F) in the day, so you should be prepared to run at a conservative pace to account for the heat.

Enter the Hapalua now

Entries are now available for the 2020 edition of the Hapalua. Enter here and tick this unforgettable event off your bucket list.