It is far too common to arrive on O‘ahu for vacation with ambitious goals to keep up with your fitness regime from home. However, all too often, exercise and health is the first thing to be forgotten while sipping piña coladas beachside. All it takes to undo months of workouts at home is a few too many drinks, lavish meals, and the need to test out every local delicacy. While you will probably attempt several hikes, and try your luck at surfing or paddle boarding, there still is nothing like a sunrise or sunset workout to start your day on a positive note. Here are some suggestions to help keep you on track during your vacation on O‘ahu:
Ala Moana Outdoor Gym
This installation is popular with all age groups and fitness levels. It is equipped with pull-up bars, dip bars, monkey bars, sit-up seats, and a range of other equipment. While many locals visit habitually, there is rarely a wait for stations, and welcoming regulars will make you feel right at home at this beachside location. If you want to compliment your workout with a jog, there is also a path enjoyed by runners that winds through the park and around Magic Island. Take in the relaxing backdrop of Ala Moana Beach throughout your session, followed by a refreshing swim in the warm Hawaiian waters after your workout.
1201 Ala Moana Blvd.
Kapi‘olani Park Fitness Station
Serving the residents and visitors of Waikiki is the Kapi‘olani Park fitness station, which has a grand backdrop of Diamond Head Crater. The station is equipped with similar installations as Ala Moana to help you get a full-body workout. Waikiki Beach is a across the street for a post-session cool off. This installation also has a friendly atmosphere that is great for visitors staying on the Diamond Head end of Waikiki.
Across the street from the Waikiki Aquarium, located at 2777 Kalakaua Ave.
Bryan Clay Exercise Park
Named after the 2008 Summer Olympic Decathlon Gold Medalist, this park is situated along the 1.3 mile Fort Ruger Pathway at the entrance to Diamond Head Crater. Unlike the outdoor gyms at Ala Moana and Kapi‘olani parks, this one has bodyweight resistance machines, which are perfect for a whole-body workout that combines resistance and cardio training.
Diamond Head Road & 18th Avenue
Waikiki Community Center
In the heart of Waikiki, this community center offers a broad range of activities for all ages. Classes range from $2 to $7 and include yoga, tae kwon do, tai chi, hula, pilates, zumba, and low-impact aerobics. For a full list of classes and schedules, visit waikikicommunitycenter.org.
310 Paoakalani Ave.
Free Beach Workout
Meeting at Queen’s Beach every Tuesday and Friday, this workout group has been at it since 1995. This free fitness regimen is designed for both men and women of all fitness levels—it is up to the individual to know his or her limit. Led by Randy Morris, president of the Extreme Fitness Club, this workout is definitely capable of leaving you in a pool of your own sweat. A post-session swim in the crystal blue Pacific Ocean will give you motivation to push yourself through it. For more information, visit meetup.com/beach-workout-waikiki.
2709 Kalakaua Ave.
Keep the Fitcation Going from Home (sponsored)
If you loved the bodyweight training setups around Honolulu, check out Bar Brothers’ 12 week plan to get the similar workout experience from your home.