Taking a vacation doesn’t mean you have to put your fitness goals on hold. In fact, being away from home can be the perfect opportunity to explore new ways of staying active, all while soaking in the beauty of your destination. With its stunning landscapes, perfect weather, and endless outdoor activities, Hawaii is an ideal place where staying active feels less like a chore and more like an adventure.
Here’s why it’s entirely possible—and even enjoyable—to stay active while traveling, with Hawaii as your active playground.
- Embrace Outdoor Adventures
Hawaii’s natural beauty offers a wide variety of activities that double as exercise. Whether you’re hiking to breathtaking waterfalls or paddling through crystal-clear waters, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active in paradise.
Active Activities in Hawaii
- Hiking: Hawaii is home to some of the most scenic trails in the world. Explore Diamond Head Crater in Oahu for a relatively easy hike with panoramic views, or challenge yourself with the Kalalau Trail on Kauai, which leads to dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches.
- Surfing: No trip to Hawaii is complete without riding the waves. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, Hawaii’s beaches offer perfect spots to catch a wave while getting a full-body workout.
- Snorkeling: Swim alongside colorful fish and sea turtles at Hanauma Bay on Oahu or Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island. Snorkeling is a low-impact workout that engages your core and improves cardiovascular health.
- Explore Water-Based Fitness
Hawaii’s surrounding ocean isn’t just beautiful—it’s also a fitness enthusiast’s playground. Water activities are a fun way to stay fit while cooling off under the sun.
Top Water Activities
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Test your balance and core strength while paddling along calm waters at places like Kailua Beach or Waikiki.
- Kayaking: Rent a kayak and explore offshore islands or hidden coves. Popular spots include kayaking to the Mokulua Islands in Oahu or along the Nā Pali Coast in Kauai.
- Swimming: With water temperatures averaging around 78°F, swimming in Hawaii’s turquoise waters is both refreshing and invigorating.
- Keep Moving on Land
If water sports aren’t your thing, Hawaii’s landscapes provide plenty of land-based activities to keep you moving.
On-Land Adventures
- Biking: Rent a bike and cruise along scenic paths like Maui’s Kapalua Coastal Trail or Big Island’s Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
- Yoga on the Beach: Many resorts and local instructors offer beachfront yoga classes that combine mindfulness with movement, all set to the sound of waves.
- Golfing: For those who enjoy swinging a club, Hawaii’s golf courses are world-renowned. Not only does golf involve plenty of walking, but the courses are often set amidst breathtaking tropical landscapes. So why not give it a go?
- Make the Most of Resort Amenities
Hawaii’s resorts cater to active travelers by offering a variety of fitness-focused amenities and programs.
Resort Options
- Many hotels and resorts have state-of-the-art gyms with ocean views, making workouts more enjoyable.
- Look for resorts that offer guided fitness classes like aqua aerobics, hula lessons, or outdoor boot camps.
- Some properties even provide equipment rentals like bikes, snorkel gear, or surfboards, making it easy to stay active.
Discover more about what activities are available in resorts in Kona in Outrigger’s Kona resort guide.
- Immerse Yourself in Local Culture
Staying active isn’t just about workouts—it’s also about engaging with your surroundings. Hawaii’s rich culture provides unique opportunities to keep moving while learning something new.
Cultural Activities
- Hula Dancing: Take a hula lesson and learn the art of storytelling through dance. This traditional Hawaiian practice is not only fun but also a great workout for your core and legs.
- Outrigger Canoeing: Paddle with a team in an outrigger canoe, a traditional Polynesian activity that strengthens your upper body while connecting you with Hawaiian heritage.
Final Thoughts
Staying active while away from home is easier than ever when your destination is Hawaii. The islands’ mix of natural beauty, adventurous activities, and cultural experiences ensures that your vacation is as active as it is unforgettable. Whether you’re hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, paddling through turquoise waters, or dancing under the stars, Hawaii proves that fitness and fun go hand in hand.
So, pack your workout gear, embrace the aloha spirit, and make your next vacation a celebration of movement and adventure.
