Waikiki RoughWater Swim
- Aug 30, 2026
- Last edition date
- Distance: 3.9km
About the race
The 2.4-mile ocean swim across Waikiki from Sans Souci Beach (by the Natatorium) to Duke Kahanamoku Beach, held since 1970 and the origin of the Ironman swim distance. 2026 edition on Sunday 30 August at 8:30.
Course
Point-to-point course starting at New Otani Hotel, featuring two right-shoulder turns at designated buoys, and finishing at Hilton Hawaiian Village.
How to get there
Waikiki RoughWater Swim
Where to stay
Waikiki offers a vast spectrum of lodging, from historic mid-century hotels near the Natatorium to luxury boutique hotel options overlooking the harbor. For those seeking a local feel, some apartment rentals are available in the residential blocks behind the Ala Moana corridor. Prices fluctuate significantly by season, typically ranging from 250 USD to over 600 USD per night for premium beachfront properties. Early booking is recommended, as the race weekend often aligns with high-demand periods in Honolulu.
Things to do nearby
Beyond the race, the Honolulu waterfront serves as a hub for marine exploration. You can rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to navigate the same reef systems you swam over, or take a guided snorkeling tour to observe the local sea life. For a change of pace, hiking the crater trail at Diamond Head offers a panoramic view of the entire racecourse. Cultural enthusiasts can visit the nearby historic districts to learn about the ancient fishponds and salt production sites that once defined this coastline.
Swimmers
Comments
Transparency: some links on this page (stays, flights, experiences, gear) are affiliate links — if you book or buy through them, Omniathlon may earn a commission from the partner at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.