The challenging, but scenic, Kaua’i Marathon begins in Poipu, the world-class resort community at the sunny southern end of the island. The marathon and half marathon courses run together for the first 11 miles. The courses follow the contour of the scenic coastline, offering magnificent views of the island’s picturesque beaches, rugged volcanic peaks, and green tropical rain forests. As dawn breaks, runners will experience lush green vistas as they approach the shade of the century old Tunnel of Trees.
The course then winds through misty Omao where the half marathon enters Kukui’ula Resort offering spectacular ocean views for the last few miles. The full marathon heads out to Lawai before climbing to reveal stunning ocean views at the top of Kalaheo.
The remaining miles are a gradual descent until runners receive a rousing island welcome upon their return to Poipu Beach.
The Kauai Marathon was the 167th largest marathon in the U.S. last year and was the 268th largest in 2022.
This year 0.9% of finishers qualified for the Boston Marathon and 2.5% of runners qualified for Boston in 2023.
This gives the Kauai Marathon the 417th highest percentage of Boston Marathon qualifiers in the U.S. last year and the 369th highest percentage so far in 2024.
Its Course Score of 95.59 ranks it as the 403rd fastest marathon course in the U.S. and the 6th fastest course in Hawaii.
The typical race time temperature and humidity levels are above the ideal range for optimal marathon performance. This, coupled with the Course Score, gives the Kauai Marathon a PR Score of 89.12. This PR Score ranks it as the 434th fastest marathon in the U.S. and the 6th fastest in Hawaii.
Learn more about PR Scores and Course Scores on the FAQ page.
Kauai Marathon Elevation Chart
Max Elevation: 822 feet (250m) Min Elevation: 19 feet (5m)
Hotel & VRBO Accommodations for the Kauai Marathon
View available accomodations around the Kauai Marathon Finish Line and Course. Book your Reservation now before the best places are sold out.
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How Fast Can You Go?
If you ran the Kauai Marathon in 5:48:00, what would your time in other marathons be?
See how your race times would compare on other marathon courses with our time conversion tool.
Plenty of condos close by..If not use to humid climate get there a few days to a week early...Keep hydrated
GL's review of 2014 Kauai Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
Very well organized from the Expo to the Finish Line. Aid stations every mile for 2nd half of marathon. Few but vocal spectators for 2nd half.
Race Tips
This is a HOT and HILLY race especially the 2nd half. First 11 miles is run with half marathoners so do not get caught up in their pace. Hydrate early and often.
