Waikiki is the main resort area on the island of Oahu, located on Honolulu's south shore. Waikiki consists of dozens of shops and restaurants, as well as the three stretches of oceanfront sand that make up Waikiki Beach. The area offers many fitness- and health-related opportunities, with a handful of recreational activities on and around Waikiki Beach.
Considerations
Average temperatures rarely stray from the mid-70s to low 80s in Waikiki, so you can enjoy outdoor fitness activities any time. November, December and January are wetter than the other months, with more than 3 inches of rainfall on average. Although Waikiki is a year-round destination, December through February is the busiest tourist season, and the beaches get crowded during the summer months when kids are out of school. Consider traveling in April, May, September or October, when the weather is good, the beaches aren't quite as crowded and travel deals are available.
Hiking
Diamond Head Crater towers 760 feet above the Pacific Ocean less than two miles east of Waikiki Beach. The crater features a 0.8-mile-long hiking trail to the summit, which offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Oahu's eastern and southern shores, including Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. Much of the trail is paved, including two staircases and a lighted tunnel. Be sure to bring a bottle of water, and plan to pay a fee to get in to the park---$5 per car or $1 per pedestrian as of 2010.
Swimming
Swimming is among the best low-impact exercises available, and the waters off Waikiki Beach are perfect for taking a dip. The stretch of Waikiki Beach known as Kuhio Beach features a sandy, rock-free ocean floor and an offshore retaining wall, which creates calm conditions that are ideal for swimming. If you want to swim out beyond the wall, check with an on-duty lifeguard to learn the safest spots for swimming.
Surfing
Legendary Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku developed his skills riding longboards on the short waves off Waikiki Beach. Today, a statue of the Hawaii icon stands at the edge of the beach, which still remains a popular place for longboard surfing and for beginners who are just learning how to ride the waves. You can rent a board and sign up for a lesson at one of the surf shacks right on the beach.
Running
The area surrounding Waikiki Beach is lined with pathways and sidewalks that are covered with runners and walkers every day around dusk. Kapiolani Park sits on the east edge of Waikiki and features a 1.8-mile flat, paved trail. Hit the loop on the sidewalks surrounding the Ala Wai Canal, at the north edge of Waikiki, for a flat 3.4-mile run. For more of a challenge, try the hilly, 4.6-mile path that starts near Waikiki Beach and loops around Diamond Head Crater.
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