Running Hawaii: A Local’s Guide to Staying Active on Island Time

A Q&A with Oʻahu Runner ʻĀina Racoma

When visitors touch down in Hawaii, many dream of long beach days, sunset cocktails, and unplugging completely. But for dedicated runners, the question becomes: how do you stay active in paradise without falling into full-on vacation sloth? We sat down with local runner ʻĀina Racoma, born and raised in Mililani on Oʻahu, to get his take on running on O’ahu, how to fuel, and what makes running in Hawaii both beautiful and brutal.

Where did you grow up, and how did you get into running?

I grew up in Mililani, right in central Oʻahu. I wasn’t into running at first—I played baseball, basketball, football, and volleyball. But after college, especially during COVID, running was one of the only things you could do. I started taking it seriously around 2021, and that’s when it became part of my lifestyle.

What’s your running background like today?

I ran my first official race in 2024. Honolulu and Carlsbad have been my favorite marathons so far. I clocked a PR of 3:25:56. One of the coolest moments was during the 2024 Honolulu Marathon—at mile 24 I found my friend on the ground, both of us off our goal pace. I helped him up and we finished together. That’s a memory I’ll never forget.

Favorite places to run on Oʻahu?

For long runs, I like starting at the Outrigger Canoe Club and heading into Hawai‘i Kai and back—about 20 miles. For mid-distance, the loop around Kapiʻolani Park and Diamond Head is super popular and scenic. That’s kind of the route if you’re staying near Waikīkī.

Any tips for visiting runners coming from the mainland?

Definitely hydrate. It’s hot and humid here, especially midday. Bring electrolytes in a handheld bottle, and try to get your run done early—like 5 AM early. Once the sun’s up, it’s intense.

Where do you like to eat after a run?

The Sunrise Shack is my go-to. They’ve got great açai bowls and sandwiches, and it’s owned by my friend Travis. If I’m craving something heartier, steak and eggs are my top post-run breakfast. Zippy’s is always a local favorite, and for something a little more chill, I like Pioneer Saloon and South Shore Grill. For pho, it’s always Saigon on Waialae—we go there after run club sometimes.

You mentioned recovery is a big part of your routine too. Where do you go?

Studio 7. It’s a contrast therapy studio started by my friend, Austyn Shimkus. You get your own room with an ice bath and sauna, plus red light, leg compression, and acupuncture. It’s legit, and he’s adding chiropractic care too. It’s great for recovery and just hanging out with friends.

Besides running, what keeps you active?

Beach volleyball is huge for me—it’s good cardio and super fun. I also lift weights at Outrigger to keep a good balance between strength and endurance.

Favorite beach on the island?

Kawela Bay on the North Shore. I grew up going there, and in my opinion, it beats the town beaches any day. Just more peaceful, more personal.

Favorite place to catch a sunrise or sunset?

Dead Man’s Catwalk in Hawai‘i Kai has the best sunrise view—straight over Waimānalo and Kailua. And then there’s Stairway to Heaven. You have to take the legal back way now, but the view from the top is wild. Fun fact: that’s actually how I got my name. “ʻĀina” means “land.” My dad was driving home from there when he got inspired.

For sunsets, nothing beats the Outrigger. You’re right on the water, great food, friends—hard to top that. North Shore’s amazing too. Sunset and barbecue? Doesn’t get better.

Any final advice for runners visiting Hawaii?

Don’t feel like you have to stop your routine here—Hawaii actually makes it better. You can get your run in at sunrise, hit the ocean, refuel with good food, and spend the rest of the day chilling or exploring. Just respect the heat, hydrate like crazy, and run early. Hawaii isn’t just paradise—it’s the perfect training ground.