Sports Enthusiasts Thrive on the Big Island

Myriad sports draw outdoors enthusiasts of every kind to the leeward coast of the island of Hawaii.

Everyone knows Ironman. The triathlon is a local institution. But there are so many other sports activities here for the dedicated, or casual athlete. You may not be a world-class competitor, but if you enjoy surfing, paddle-boarding, hydro-biking, zip lining, mountain biking, running, hiking, cycling, climbing, swimming, scuba, sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, outrigger canoeing, hang-gliding, kite-surfing, or para sailing, you will find ample opportunity to experience the active side of Hawaii.

One way to find Big Island sports activities is to check out Peaman events, or Team Mango Races that schedules biathlon and running events. Locals in Kona work out at The Club. They provide full service for personalized fitness support, equipment, classes, massage, and nutrition.

If you live further north, both the Mauna Lani Sports and Fitness Club, and the Hilton Waikoloa’s Kohala Spa offer spa and fitness clubs, as well as world-class tennis facilities.

It’s even possible to ski and snowboard at the top of Mauna Kea mountain in the winter months!

Along the Kohala “gold” Coast is where the Ironman contestants ride their bikes north through the heat, and sometimes brutal winds, past Kawaihae harbor (where you can charter a boat for sport fishing!), and into small-town Hawi, where they turn around and ride back to Kona. Don’t turn around yet if you want more outdoor sporting fun—in North Kohala you can zip line, hike, mountain bike, camp, surf and hike the trails of Pololu Valley.