Top 5 Family-Friendly Running Events in Oahu
Getting ready for a vacation in Hawaii? Well, pack your running shoes and prepare for a variety of fun and exciting Oahu running events that families can enjoy.
For anyone who is an experienced runner, you can head to this article about the King's Runner 10K event. For the rest of us, with strollers, kids of all ages, and a desire for a casual family jog that supports a local cause...keep reading and find out about some of the best running events in Oahu.
1. Hawaii Children & Youth Day Fun Run Race
- Location: Frank F. Fasi Civic Center/Sky Gate, Honolulu, HI
- Date: Annually in June
- Cause/Purpose: Celebrates Hawaii's keiki (children) and their potential, gifts, and future
- Distance: Free 1k and 3k races for kids 17 years and younger. All participants receive a participation medal.
- How to Register: Online at www.raceentry.com or in person on race day
- Directions: From Waikiki Resort Hotel, take Ala Wai Blvd and head towards Nimitz Hwy. Follow signs to the event location in Honolulu.
2. Mango Days 5K
- Location: Magic Island at Ala Moana Beach Park, Honolulu
- Date: Annually in June
- Cause/Purpose: Honors the memory of a local runner, Patty Smith, and supports the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
- Distance: 5k run or walk
- How to Register: Online at the Tropical Triple Crown website
- Directions: From Waikiki Resort Hotel, take Ala Moana Blvd to Ala Moana Beach Park, about a 7-minute drive away.
3. Santa Hat 5K Family Fun Run/Walk (By Mid-Pacific Road Runners Club)
- Location: Ala Moana Regional Park, 1201 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu
- Date: Annually in early December.
- Cause/Purpose: Celebrates the festive Christmas season and supports local charities
- Distance: 5k and a 1k kids run (there is also a stroller division)
- How to Register: Online or on the day of the event
- Tips for Families: Dress up in festive attire (wear Santa hats and reindeer antlers).
- Directions: From Waikiki Resort Hotel, take Ala Moana Blvd to Ala Moana Regional Park, about a 7-minute drive away.
4. Jingle Rock Run
- Location: 92-1047 Olani Street, Kapolei, HI, 96707
- Date: Annually in December
- Cause/Purpose: Supports the Make-A-Wish Hawaii Foundation
- Distance: 2.5 miles or 4k
- How to Register: Online at the Jingle Rock Run website
- Tips for Families: Bring along some jingle bells for extra festive cheer (keiki love the sound!)
- Directions: From Waikiki Resort Hotel, get on I-H-1 W from Ala Wai Blvd. Get onto the HI-93 W and continue to your destination, about a 40-minute drive away.
5. Honolulu Marathon Kalakaua Merrie Mile
- Location: Monsarrat Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii
- Date: Annually in December
- Cause/Purpose: Kicks off the Honolulu Marathon weekend and celebrates the aloha spirit
- Distance: 1 mile, followed by a beach party
- How to Register: Online at the Honolulu Marathon website
- Directions: The event takes place on Monsarrat Avenue, a short 20-minute walk from the Waikiki Resort Hotel via Kalākaua Ave and Monsarrat Ave.
Top Tips for Including Kids in Running Events
- Preparation: Practice running together before the event to build endurance. If your kiddo is still in a stroller, make sure the race has a stroller lane. Not all paths are suitable for strollers, and we'd hate for you to be disappointed.
- Fun Factor: Let kids pick out fun outfits or costumes to wear.
- The Gear: Encourage your kids to wear comfortable shoes, hats, and light clothing
- Sun Protection: A high SPF of 50 for your body, face, and lips is recommended. Opt for reef-safe sunscreen for your ocean dip after any races.
- Hydration: Ensure everyone drinks plenty of water before, during, and after the race.
- Snacks: Pack healthy snacks (such as fresh fruit or granola bars) for post-race energy.
- Rest: Ensure kids get a good night's sleep before the race day.
Taking part in fun runs Oahu hosts is a fantastic way to bond as a family on vacation. Choose an event that fits your family's interests and schedule, and have a great time running together in beautiful Oahu!