Alameda Runners – Get After It!

Athletes enjoy running or working out when they go on vacation – and there are some great tourist destinations that double as vacation hot spots and a runner’s paradise. I recently caught up with representatives from the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau and discussed why Hawaii is an ideal location for athletes looking to just get away.

There are plenty of reasons, according to the HVCB, why athletes should be interested in flying to Hawaii from the mainland.

“Year-round sunshine and good weather, accommodations for every budget, a wide variety of activities and attractions, rich culture and history, world-class cuisine, exceptional spa/wellness facilities, and warm Aloha spirit help make the Hawaiian Islands an ideal vacation for runners and athletes.”

For anyone looking to travel to Hawaii, there are a couple of ideal times to make travel arrangements: “Travelers can usually find the best deals to Hawaii during the off-peak season, which tends to be spring (March-May) and fall (September-November).”

A quick search yielded a one round trip ticket from Oakland to Kona in April for around $410, including fees and taxes, but browsing around could lead to even better deals.

Full interview is available after the jump: 

Many of you like to travel across the country — and world — to compete in marathons, and there are several major running races in Hawaii that you can consider.

“Each island hosts a variety of marathons and endurance sports events throughout the year. Four Hawaiian Islands hold annual marathons: Honolulu Marathon (Oahu), Kauai Marathon Maui Marathon, Hilo Marathon (Big Island) and Kona Marathon (Big Island). There are also numerous half marathons, triathlons, bike rides, and other competitive sporting events on each island.”

In addition to running and endurance sports, the Hawaiian Islands include a wide variety of different activities to keep visitors entertained. I’m most impressed by the number of recreational activities that many of us cannot enjoy easily here on the mainland:

“With sunshine and warm ocean waters year round, water sports such as surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving are especially popular and easily accessible in Hawaii. The state also features beautiful hiking trails, scenic running courses, and stunning golf course.”

 Anyone looking to support a friend or family member – and just observe an outdoor sport – there are alternatives available.

“For spectators, Hawaii hosts the world championship of surfing (Vans Triple Crown of Surfing on Oah’s North Shore) and Ironman World Championship (Kona, Hawaii Island).”

If you seek additional information, here are a few added resources:

“Besides the official Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau site, some informational sites for outdoor/recreation in Hawaii include Na Ala Hele – Hawaii Trail & Access System, Unreal Hawaii, and Sierra Club.”

(Images courtesy of the HVCB.)