Imagine running through orchards of coffee and macadamia nut trees, and over rolling hills that greet you with stunning ocean vistas. That’s exactly what’s in store for the runners who take on the Ka’u Coffee Trail Run on Saturday, September 21st.

If you’re planning on running the Ka’u Coffee Trail race, get ready to start your day early. The 50k starts at 6am, while the half marathon starts at 7am and the 1ok starts at 7:15, followed shortly after by the 5k (there’s a distance for everyone)! With such an early start scheduled, it would be convenient to stay nearby. Lodging in the charming, rural region of Pahala, however, is limited. Fortunately, Volcano, Hawai’i is a mere 27 miles away, making it an excellent place to stay for race weekend.

We love how this race gets the whole family and community involved. Not only is it the only race on the island that is officially dog-friendly, but it’s often supported by some amazing volunteers and fans. In years past, runners have been sent off into the lush fields to the sound of taiko drums, while aid stations have been manned by enthusiastic students from the University of Hilo cross-country team and local high schools.

After crossing the finish line, runners are provided hydration and light snacks, but don’t forget to bring some extra cash and purchase some delicious goodies from the local vendors on site. The mill and gift shop will be open early on race day, so you can stock up on award-winning Ka’u Coffee grown in the fields you just ran through! 

If you run the half marathon or 50k, and really work up an appetite, consider making the short drive to Na’alehu to feast on a classic Loco Moco or Hogzilla Burrito at Hana Hou Restaurant. And no visit to Na’alehu would be complete without a sweet malasada from Punaluú Bakery, the southernmost bakery in the United States. Of course, you can always stay at the finish line and cheer on the other runners before heading back to Volcano for a hearty lunch at Lava Rock Cafe or the Rim in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. 

Every year, proceeds from the Ka’u Coffee Trail Run go toward supporting ‘O Ka’u Kakou (OKK), a nonprofit that uses the donations to fund local scholarships, land for a proposed senior housing project, life-saving equipment for Kaʻu Hospital, restoration and maintenance of local historical cemeteries, and sponsorship of the Veterans’ Day and 4th of July parades.

Even if you aren’t coming to Hawai’i to race, the Ka’u Coffee Mill and the Ka’u region should be on your Big Island itinerary. During the week, the mill offers free See to Cup tours of the coffee orchards, as well as the milling and roasting facilities. 

Visiting the Big Island or just coming over from Kona for the race? You can get from our charming cottages, Tutu’s Place and the Ola’a House, to the Ka’u Coffee Mill where the race is held in about 35 minutes! Book your stay today!