Hawaii's near-perfect weather offers ideal running conditions, and with a course that takes runners through Waikiki, along the shoreline, passing some of the island's most iconic landmarks, it's no wonder the Honolulu Marathon is the fourth-largest marathon in the country. But a number of other marathons and triathlons take place throughout the year in Hawaii, drawing a growing group of niche vacationers.
Industry professionals have noted an increase in runners who are planning trips and travel around a marathon or triathlon.
"I think, if you're a runner, it's great to participate in the really premier events," said Paula Simpson Takamori, owner of Travel to Paradise. She added that the Honolulu Marathon, set for Dec. 9 this year, "is one they want to be able to say they've done, just like the New York Marathon or the Boston Marathon."
Some of the events and courses on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii Island are intensely demanding. Others are more recreational and fun. Whatever their speed, runners are likely to find the right event in this 2018-2019 race calendar:
• Nov. 10: 100% Kona Coffee Half Marathon (Hawaii Island) — Part of the 48th Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, which features 10 days of activities celebrating Kona's annual coffee harvest. This scenic half-marathon runs along the coastline of Kailua-Kona.
• Dec. 16: Jingle Bell Run (Hawaii Island) — Kona's holiday-themed 5K run is excellent for family participation and a great opportunity to take a Hawaiian-style holiday.
• Jan. 20: Maui Oceanfront Marathon (Maui) — With Haleakala Volcano on one side and migrating whales on the other, this marathon starts in Wailea and finishes in Old Lahaina Town. Perfect for all skill levels, runners can opt between the marathon, half-marathon and Maui 15K, 10K or 5K runs.
• March 9: North Shore Triathlon (Oahu) — The North Shore Triathlon features a 400-meter swim, a 12-mile bike course and a 3-mile run at Mokuleia Beach Park on Oahu's beautiful North Shore.
• May 12: Honolulu Triathlon (Oahu) — Official hotel sponsor Prince Waikiki offers discounted rates exclusively to athletes.
• June 1: Ironman Hawaii 70.3 Triathlon (Hawaii Island) — Swim with honu (sea turtles), ride the Ironman World Championship bike course, then run in paradise. An intense competition set in a beautiful venue, with warm, crystal-blue waters, white sand and occasional sightings of spinner dolphins and humpback whales.
• June 30: Kona Marathon, Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon, 5K (Hawaii Island) — Host hotel the Hilton Waikoloa Village offers special rates for runners.
• Sept. 1: The Kauai Marathon (Kauai) — Lush rainforests, blue waters, sandy beaches and rugged volcanic peaks provide a world-class backdrop for the Kauai Marathon or Half Marathon.
• Oct. 13: Maui Marathon — The Westin Maui Resort & Spa Kaanapali is host hotel for this event, which was named the No. 10 destination marathon in North America by the Ultimate Guide to Marathons.