
2026 Kauai Half Marathon (17th Annual)
Kauai Half Marathon: a lush island run from Poipu Beach.
Race Date
Sep 6, 2026
Location
Poipu Beach, Kauai, HI
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, September 6, 2026
- Location
- Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Kauai Half Marathon, part of the Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon weekend, is a celebration of the Garden Island's stunning landscapes. Starting at Poipu Beach on the sunny south shore, the course winds through coastal roads and past tropical foliage, with views of the Pacific and distant mountains. Though the exact route varies, the race is known for its challenging hills and the ever-present Hawaiian sun—organizers provide 9,500 pounds of ice and 1,600 gallons of water along the course to help runners beat the heat.
With about 1,500 finishers each year, the race draws runners from roughly 45 states, and around 17% return for another go. The event has been held since 2009, now in its 14th edition. The half marathon is a point-to-point or loop course on paved roads, featuring rolling hills that demand respect. The finish area at Poipu Beach offers a festive atmosphere, with food, music, and the chance to dip in the ocean. Whether you're chasing a personal best or simply soaking in the aloha spirit, this race delivers a uniquely Hawaiian experience.
Race-provided description
2026 Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon
Sunday, September 6, 2026
Day(s)
:
Hour(s)
:
Minute(s)
:
Second(s)
Photo Credit: Jo Evans
Fun Race Facts
[image: https://thekauaimarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/waves.png]
Age demographics
Oldest Full- 78 Youngest Full- 16 Oldest Half-94 Youngest Half- 8
[image: https://thekauaimarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/waves.png]
Pounds of Ice
on the course on race day 9,500 pounds
[image: https://thekauaimarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/waves.png]
Gallons of water
on course on race day 1,600 gallons
Photo Credit: Mike Coots
Kaua’i
The Garden Island
[image: https://thekauaimarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/waves.png]
Fun Fact
Kaua‘i has the only navigable rivers in Hawaii.
[image: https://thekauaimarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/waves.png]
Geography
Home to Waimea Canyon, nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”
[image: https://thekauaimarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/waves.png]
F
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, September 6, 2026
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
Poipu Beach, Kauai, HI
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Coastal, Mountain
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Quality Score
Standout7414 years running
~1,513 finishers a year
growing or steady
17% returning runners
limited extras
runners from 45 states
winner 1:06:52
typical high 84°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
73°
Afternoon (High)
84°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.1"
Precipitation
14 mph
Wind
72%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Kauai Half Marathon (17th Annual)?
The 2026 Kauai Half Marathon (17th Annual) is held on Sunday, September 6, 2026.
Where does the 2026 Kauai Half Marathon (17th Annual) take place?
It takes place in Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii.
What distances does the 2026 Kauai Half Marathon (17th Annual) offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Kauai Half Marathon (17th Annual) course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Kauai Half Marathon (17th Annual) is a rolling hills, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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