Kauai is known as the “Garden Isle” for its high rainfall and lush vegetation, but it is also home to some of the best beaches in Hawaii, with miles long stretches of gorgeous white sand. Running on Kauai is an unexpected treasure. The secret bikeways, coastal trails, and mountain roads of Hawaii’s oldest island offer stunning scenery and lots of variety in a small geography.
Tourists typically stay in Princeville in the north, or Poipu on the south coast. We’ve mapped the most popular routes in these areas, but have also included runs that are worth a trip. The best coastal views are the new bike path on the Coconut Coast; Anini Rd. near Princeville; the Heritage Trail and run from Poipu Beach in Poipu. The best beaches for running are at Hanalei Bay, Kekaka Beach, and Secret Beach. There are also some excellent trail runs in Kilauea, and some good dirt roads for running by ranches and farms.
For getting around the island, a car is generally required, as there is little public transportation. Otherwise, you’ll have to explore on your own two feet — but with these running routes, that’s not so bad!
r, with average high temperatures in the ranging from near 80F (25C) in winter to 86F (29C) in summer. Nights are mild, bottoming out in the high 60s in winter to the mid 70s.