What You Need to Know about the Annual Oahu Charity Walk

The Annual Oahu Charity Walk, organized by the Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association (HLTA), is a beloved event that gathers the community for a great cause. This event supports numerous local charities and is a fantastic way to give back while enjoying the beauty of Oahu. Here's everything you need to know about this fun and charitable community event.

 

Insights into the Annual Oahu Charity Walk

The Oahu Charity Walk was founded in 1978 by the Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association to raise funds for Hawaii’s non-profit organizations. The event includes walks in Oahu, Maui, Big Island, Kauai, Lanai, and Molokai. 

  • Funds Raised since 1978: Over $45 million, about $2 million annually
  • Fund Recipients: Nonprofits on the islands that address various needs from homelessness, social welfare, mental and physical health, youth, our environment, and more
  • Oahu Event Location: The Oahu event takes place in Waikiki and starts and ends at Magic Island, Ala Moana Beach Park.
  • What: Participants embark on a 5-mile walk
  • Who: This event is open to individuals, families, and corporate teams who gather pledges to contribute to the overall fundraising.
  • When: Annually, usually in May
  • Cost: Donations

 

Participate in the Oahu Charity Walk - Here is How!

To join the walk, you can register on the official website ahead of time or on the day of the event. Participants are encouraged to gather donations of any amount from friends, family, and colleagues. To enjoy the event, remember to bring the following:

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Sun protection such as hat and sunscreen lotion
  • A reusable water bottle
  • Lei to hand out to your team

During the walk, enjoy picturesque views of Waikiki Beach while you walk to live music and soak up entertainment at various checkpoints. Many businesses offer free snacks and drinks along the route.

 

Make an Impact and Get Involved in the Charity Walk, Oahu

Besides walking, there are several ways to get involved with the charity walk via their website:

  • Volunteer as a course marshal: Assist with event setup, registration, or checkpoints.
  • Donate: Support participants by donating online.
  • Sponsor: Businesses can sponsor the event or specific checkpoints.

 

Directions from Waikiki Resort Hotel

Traveling to the event is simple from the Waikiki Resort Hotel. It takes only 10 minutes by car or a 45-minute walk. To get to the starting point at Magic Island, Ala Moana Beach Park from the Waikiki Resort Hotel:

  1. Head west on Kalakaua Ave.
  2. Turn left onto Ala Moana Blvd.
  3. Continue and turn left into Ala Moana Park Drive
  4. Look out for the Magic Island, Ala Moana Beach Park signage.

Recommended parking: Coral Level of the Ala Moana Shopping Center parking. Alternatives include Ala Moana Beach Park, Magic Island, McCoy Pavilion, or Ward Center. Public transport or carpooling is recommended.

 

Join Waikiki Resort Hotel in Promoting and Taking Part in This Impactful Event

The Waikiki Resort Hotel, under the leadership of Glenn Vergara, Vice President and General Manager, has made significant contributions to the Charity Walk. Glenn has been in the hospitality industry for over three decades and has served on HLTA’s board of directors for the past 16 years. In 2021, Glenn was awarded the UH TIM School’s Alumni Hall of Honor award for his dedication to the industry.

Hawaii offers a myriad of opportunities to give back during your time in paradise. And with this Hawaii Charity Walk, you get to join in a celebration of community spirit and aloha. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, participating in the Charity Walk is a rewarding way to experience the true essence of Hawaii while supporting a worthy cause. 

Mahalo for your kokua (help) and we hope to see you at the next walk!