"A real beauty, the Maui Marathon runs alongside the spectacular coastline with dramatic views of the cobalt blue Ocean, its rolling surf and the neighboring islands." -Doug Rennie, Runner's World Travel Writer

Setting the Stage: The Maui Marathon course is undoubtedly one of the most scenic marathon courses in the world. With over 17 miles of oceanfront running on what Conde Nast Traveler Magazine readers voted as "The World's Best Island," the Maui Marathon is not just a race, it is a vacation in paradise.

The Maui Marathon starts in Kahului at Queen Ka'ahumanu Center, the premier shopping center on Maui. Marathon morning starts with a Hawaiian blessing followed by a conch shell blowing performance. The early-morning darkness cannot hide the anticipation in the air. A magical marathon is about to begin!

The Start through Mile 4: The wheelchair division will get rolling at 5:25 a.m., five minutes before the runners hit the road at 5:30 am. The first 1.5 miles of the course is run on flat residential streets, after which you will turn onto the paved shoulder and asphalt road surface of Highway 30, Kuihelani Highway. Though still dark, the moonlit radiance off the silvery sugarcane fields and the steady stream of excited participants will guide you along your way.

Miles 4 through 8.5: At Mile 4, a slight gradual downhill and light tail winds will help you quicken your stride as you welcome the peaceful early dawn. At Mile 6, you'll see the sun rise slowly over the 10,023 ft. volcano Mt. Haleakala. It is here where you will you will catch your first glimpse of the azure Pacific Ocean and its frolicking surf--soon to be your companion the rest of the day.

Soon, you will navigate by the Maui Ocean Center, the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere. No time to enjoy the Center's interactive marine exhibits (but come back some time during your trip)! Just past the 10K marker you will turn onto the coastal Honoapiilani Highway, Hwy 30, where you will begin your 17-mile seaside adventure.

Mile 8.5 to 12.5: You will now enter the Pali, or "cliffs," and experience rolling hills for the next four-plus miles. Around miles 9 through 10.5, a glance to your left will reveal the Kihei area of South Maui and as far south as the resort areas of Wailea and Makena. Off the coast, you will see Molokini, an extinct volcanic crater rim which has long been one of the most popular diving and snorkeling destinations in Hawaii. Further off shore is the uninhabited island of Kahoolawe, once a U.S. Navy bombing target now being maintained by the federal government. The rolling hills in this area parallel a historic 200-year old trail but, at one time, was part of the much older "alaloa," the long road that once circled Maui over 400 years ago. As you can most likely surmise, the Maui Marathon is an incredible sightseeing tour by foot!

At mile 12.5 you will pass through a tunnel which begins a downhill stretch to the mid-way point. You can also expect to see "keiki" hula dancers at this point, one of several locations throughout the course.

Mile 12.5 to Mile 22: Continuing along on the shoulder of Hwy. 30, the next seven miles are flat as you run at sea level within 10-100 feet from the ocean. This stretch offers spectacular views of the neighbor islands of Lanai and Molokai. Here trade winds will hopefully will at your back and provide a cooling effect.

At around mile 17 you first hear and then see this large group of young musicans (Maui Taiko Drummers) making this inspiring music for all of the runners and doing it for about 5 hours straight. If you are feeling a little fatigued at this point in the race their music and enthusiasm will inspire you to finish. Click here for an audio sample.

Along this coastal route, anticipate a variety of lively entertainers and breath-taking views of the ocean and the West Maui Mountains. Additionally, enthusiastic spectators will keep you inspired and motivated. You will now realize why we are known as the Valley Isle as well as the Magic Isles.

Mile 22 to 24: Close to Mile 22, you will make a left turn onto the beginning of Front Street and into the historic whaling village of Lahaina, home to the largest number of restaurants, art galleries and shops on the island. As you run the 2-mile length of Front Street, please keep to the left-hand side of the road, as the right side will be open to race and emergency vehicles. This stretch will most likely be the warmest as the buildings act as a buffer to the trade winds, however, aid stations will be present to hose you down or offer you an icy Popsicle!

Mile 24 to the Finish Line: At mile 24, you will return to the shoulder of Hwy. 30 as you head towards world famous Kaanapali Resort and the Finish Line at Whalers Village. Though there are other areas for spectators to view and cheer on race participants, the Finish Line is the place to be. Once you have crossed the Finish Line, you will be lei greeted with a finisher's medallion. Make sure to partake in the complimentary massage offered by our numerous volunteer massage professionals!

Now its time for a little relaxation and then you are off to the Finisher's Party and Awards Ceremony which will be held at our Headquarters hotel, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, from 4:30 to 6pm. Join us for FREE pizza and beverages including Beer!

‘See you in September!