Join the 11th LeaLea Charity Run 5K by HIS in Honolulu, Hawaii

The 11th LeaLea Charity Run 5K by HIS

Join us for the 11th annual LeaLea Charity Run 5K hosted by HIS in beautiful Honolulu, Hawaii on October 11, 2026. This engaging event has a profound legacy, originally launched to aid recovery efforts following the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. It has since evolved to not only support rebuilding initiatives but also to engage Hawaii’s youth with their Japanese counterparts through the Hawaii Rainbow Kids Project.

The 5K run will kick off at the scenic Ala Moana Beach Park, taking participants along a picturesque course that ends at Magic Island. Following the race, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a beach clean-up, fostering a sense of community and environmental stewardship.

One of the hallmarks of the LeaLea Charity Run is its commitment to supporting marine conservation. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Waikiki Aquarium, which is dedicated to research and preservation of Hawaii’s coral reefs and marine ecosystems. Funds raised will specifically aid the renovation of the exhibit Edge of the Reef, which aims to deepen public understanding of marine life and ecosystems unique to Hawaii. Last year, we registered 371 participants and raised an impressive $20,476 for this cause.

In addition to participating in the charity run, runners will receive a special ticket for the XploreRide Hawaii, an innovative tourist attraction that combines the latest in XR technology with Hawaiian culture, availably for only $10, a significant discount from the regular price of $29. Fully aware of its social responsibilities, HIS will donate 100% of proceeds from these tickets to the Waikiki Aquarium as well, enhancing their conservation efforts.

HIS is also working diligently in tandem with the Hawaii Tourism Authority to foster Regenerative Tourism, an initiative that emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural traditions and natural environments for the benefit of both the local community and visitors. Through the LeaLea Charity Run, it aims to create more opportunities for both residents and visitors to connect with Hawaii’s unique charms while contributing to its well-being through Malama Hawaii, the spirit of caring for Hawaii.

Event Details:

- Name: LeaLea Charity Run 5K by HIS
- Date: October 11, 2026 (Sunday)
- Location: Ala Moana Beach Park
- Schedule: Race start at 7:00 AM
- Eligibility: Open to participants aged 7 and above on the race day
- Organizers: HIS Hawaii
- Race Management: Mid-Pacific Road Runners Club
- Registration: Register at run sign-up page
- Entry Fee: Ranges from $30 to $50, varying by registration date. This year, a new student discount is available.

We sincerely appreciate HIS Hawaii’s continued support and donations raised through the LeaLea Charity Run. The contributions will help us enhance our pivotal exhibit, Edge of the Reef, which showcases an outdoor display of 7,500 gallons featuring vibrant marine life such as yellow tangs and corals. We remain steadfast in our mission to promote the preservation and allure of Hawaii’s marine ecosystems.

Dr. Judith Limas, Acting Director of Waikiki Aquarium