The Honolulu Marathon 2025 road closures are now in effect across Oʻahu as thousands of runners, walkers, and spectators fill the streets for one of the world’s most scenic marathon events.
Held today, Sunday, December 14, 2025, the marathon features over 25,000 participants representing more than 40 countries. While it’s a day of excitement and community pride, it also means extensive traffic restrictions throughout Honolulu, Waikīkī, and East Honolulu.
Here’s everything residents, visitors, and commuters need to know about the 2025 Honolulu Marathon — from closure schedules and detours to safety tips and what to expect throughout race day.
A Look at the Honolulu Marathon 2025
The Honolulu Marathon stands as one of the largest and most beloved road races in the United States. First held in 1973, it has grown into an internationally recognized event that draws elite athletes, recreational runners, and charity participants alike.
Unlike many major marathons, the Honolulu Marathon has no time limit, allowing runners of all abilities — including walkers — to complete the 26.2-mile course at their own pace.
The 2025 edition started at 5:00 a.m. at Ala Moana Boulevard near Atkinson Drive and will end at Kapiʻolani Park in Waikīkī, with celebrations continuing throughout the day.
The route winds through Honolulu’s downtown district, along the stunning Waikīkī coastline, around Diamond Head, and through East Honolulu before looping back toward the finish line — offering breathtaking ocean views and a warm, festive atmosphere.
Race Day Essentials
- Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025
- Start Time: 5:00 a.m. HST
- Start Line: Ala Moana Boulevard at Atkinson Drive
- Finish Line: Kapiʻolani Park, Waikīkī
- Estimated Participants: Over 25,000 runners and walkers
- Course Length: 26.2 miles (42.195 kilometers)
- Expected Finish Window: 5:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
The marathon also includes the Start to Park 10K and Kalākaua Merrie Mile, which took place earlier this weekend, rounding out Honolulu’s biggest annual running celebration.
Honolulu Marathon 2025 Road Closures: Full Schedule
The City and County of Honolulu, in partnership with race organizers, has implemented comprehensive road closures for race day to ensure safety for runners and spectators.
Closures began late Saturday night and continue through the afternoon on Sunday. Below is the confirmed breakdown of major closures and reopening times.
Downtown Honolulu and Ala Moana Area
These early-morning closures affect key intersections near the starting line and are among the first to reopen once runners clear the area.
- Ala Moana Boulevard (Atkinson Dr. to Ward Ave.)
⏰ Closed from 12:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. - Atkinson Drive (Kapiʻolani Blvd. to Ala Moana Blvd.)
⏰ Closed from 12:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. - Kapiʻolani Boulevard (Atkinson Dr. to McCully St.)
⏰ Closed from 4:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. - Ward Avenue (Queen St. to Kapiʻolani Blvd.)
⏰ Closed from 4:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Waikīkī and Kapiʻolani Park
This area serves as both a key stretch of the course and the marathon’s grand finish. Expect heavy pedestrian traffic throughout the morning and early afternoon.
- Kalākaua Avenue (Ala Moana Blvd. to Kapahulu Ave.)
⏰ Closed from 4:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. - Kapahulu Avenue (Kuhio Ave. to Monsarrat Ave.)
⏰ Closed from 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. - Monsarrat Avenue (Kapahulu Ave. to Paki Ave.)
⏰ Closed from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. - Paki Avenue (Kalākaua Ave. to Monsarrat Ave.)
⏰ Closed from 4:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Diamond Head and Kahala
The stretch around Diamond Head provides one of the most iconic views of the marathon but also causes significant delays for local residents.
- Diamond Head Road (Kalākaua Ave. to Paikō Dr.)
⏰ Closed from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - Kahala Avenue (Paikō Dr. to Hunakai St.)
⏰ Closed from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - Kilauea Avenue (Hunakai St. to 22nd Ave.)
⏰ Closed from 5:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Hawaiʻi Kai and East Honolulu
This section forms the turnaround point for the marathon before runners head back toward Waikīkī. Expect partial lane closures until early afternoon.
- Kalanianaʻole Highway (Ainakoa Ave. to Hawaii Kai Dr.)
⏰ Closed from 4:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. - Hawaii Kai Drive (Keahole St. to Kalanianaʻole Hwy.)
⏰ Closed from 5:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Roads reopen progressively behind the runners as they pass each section, with police and event officials monitoring conditions.
Detours and Commuter Tips
Traffic in central and eastern Honolulu will be heavily impacted until early afternoon. Motorists are urged to plan alternate routes or delay nonessential travel.
Here are some recommended detours:
- East Honolulu commuters: Take H-1 Freeway or Waialae Avenue instead of Kalanianaʻole Highway.
- Downtown to Kakaʻako area: Use King Street or Beretania Street to avoid Ala Moana closures.
- Waikīkī residents: Use Ala Wai Boulevard for limited access in and out of the neighborhood when permitted.
Expect slower travel times and increased pedestrian activity near major intersections.
Parking and Towing Restrictions
Parking restrictions are strictly enforced along the marathon route. “No Parking” signs have been posted in all affected zones, and violators will be towed at the owner’s expense.
Major restricted areas include:
- Ala Moana Boulevard (Atkinson Dr. to Ward Ave.)
- Kalākaua Avenue (through Waikīkī)
- Kahala Avenue and adjacent side streets
Residents and visitors are encouraged to park in unaffected residential areas or use public transportation where possible.
Public Transit Updates
TheBus services across Honolulu are operating on modified routes until road closures are lifted. Several lines traveling through Ala Moana, Waikīkī, and East Honolulu are rerouted or temporarily suspended.
Commuters can use Beretania Street or King Street stops as alternatives for east-west travel.
Biki Bikeshare stations along Kalākaua Avenue and Ala Moana may experience limited availability until the roads reopen.
Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have designated pick-up and drop-off zones near the Honolulu Zoo, Ala Wai Golf Course, and McCully Street, away from the finish line congestion.
Community and Economic Impact
The Honolulu Marathon generates an estimated $100 million in visitor spending annually, making it one of Hawaii’s most economically beneficial sporting events.
Hotels, restaurants, and local shops experience a surge in business, particularly in Waikīkī and Ala Moana. Beyond the economic boost, the marathon fosters community pride and volunteerism.
More than 4,000 volunteers are assisting this year, supporting hydration stations, cleanup crews, and finish-line logistics. Local students, nonprofits, and athletic organizations are also participating, emphasizing the event’s deep roots in the island’s community culture.
Safety and Medical Support
Event safety is coordinated by the Honolulu Police Department, Emergency Medical Services, and race organizers.
Key safety measures include:
- Medical tents located every 2 miles along the route
- Hydration and aid stations after the 3-mile mark
- On-call ambulances and medical bicycles stationed throughout Waikīkī and Diamond Head
- Security patrols managing intersections and spectator areas
Participants are reminded to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen due to the tropical conditions. Spectators should remain behind barricades and avoid crossing the course during active race times.
Weather and Race Conditions
Today’s weather offers near-perfect marathon running conditions. Temperatures started around 71°F before sunrise and are expected to rise to the low 80s by midday.
Light trade winds and clear skies dominate the forecast, though humidity levels remain high — a signature feature of Honolulu’s December climate.
Organizers have prepared extra water stations and cooling mist tents at Kapiʻolani Park to help runners recover comfortably after finishing.
When Roads Will Reopen
Roads will begin reopening in stages from 10:00 a.m., starting with downtown areas and moving eastward.
By 3:00 p.m., all major routes are expected to be clear and normal traffic patterns restored. Police will oversee each reopening phase to ensure public safety.
Race Route Highlights
The Honolulu Marathon route offers a postcard-perfect tour of Oʻahu’s most famous landmarks. Among the highlights:
- Ala Moana Beach Park: The scenic start line, with fireworks launching into the dawn sky.
- Waikīkī Beachfront: Early morning crowds and ocean views energize runners.
- Diamond Head Lookout: One of the most photographed sections, with panoramic coastal vistas.
- Kahala Avenue: A peaceful stretch shaded by luxury homes and ocean breezes.
- Hawaii Kai Marina: The turnaround point for runners before the final push back to Waikīkī.
The finish line at Kapiʻolani Park offers food, entertainment, and post-race recovery areas for both participants and supporters.
How to Enjoy the Marathon as a Spectator
Spectators play a huge role in creating the Honolulu Marathon’s unique atmosphere. Popular viewing spots include:
- Ala Moana Park for the early fireworks start
- Waikīkī near Kalākaua Avenue for cheering and photo ops
- Diamond Head Road for scenic mid-race views
- Kapiʻolani Park for the finish-line celebrations
Spectators are encouraged to use public transit or walk to viewing areas to reduce congestion.
Final Thoughts
The Honolulu Marathon 2025 road closures bring temporary disruptions but also showcase one of Hawaii’s proudest traditions — a global event that unites athletes and communities under the aloha spirit.
From the breathtaking sunrise start to the final finisher at Kapiʻolani Park, the marathon reflects perseverance, culture, and joy that define the islands.
If you’re out today, plan ahead, drive safely, and take a moment to enjoy the energy that transforms Honolulu every December into a world-class running city.