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United States
Hawaiʻi County

Waikoloa Beach Resort

The best running trails around Waikoloa Beach Resort

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 10, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan jogging around Waikoloa Beach Resort, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many paths crisscrossing this stunning part of the Big Island, it's tough to know which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, walked, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best, saving you the guesswork.

Jogging here is a truly unique experience, blending ancient Hawaiian history with breathtaking natural beauty. You'll find everything from scenic coastal paths hugging the Pacific Ocean to trails traversing dramatic ancient lava fields and even routes passing fascinating anchialine ponds. The terrain varies from mostly paved, easygoing stretches to more challenging paths with moderate elevation gains, ensuring there's something for every fitness level. It's a place where every run feels like an exploration of both landscape and culture.

If you only do one run, make it the Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve via Fisherman Trail loop, a moderate 6.9 miles (11.1 km) route that perfectly combines ancient rock carvings with stunning coastal views. For a quicker, easier option that still delivers on scenery, the 1.9 miles (3.0 km) Fisherman Trail is a top favorite for its direct access to the Pacific. Hundreds of runners have already discovered the magic of Waikoloa Beach Resort with komoot, and we think you will too.

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve via Fisherman Trail loop
  2. 2

    Fisherman Trail
  3. 3

    Bridge crossing loop from Waipuhi Iki Fishpond

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve via Fisherman Trail loop

11.1 km

50 m

Moderate

Fisherman Trail

3.02 km

10 m

Easy

Bridge crossing loop from Waipuhi Iki Fishpond

9.75 km

50 m

Moderate

Anaehoomalu Beach – Buddha Point overlook loop from 49 Black Sand Beach

7.63 km

30 m

Moderate

Waikōloa Petroglyph Field – Bridge crossing loop from Kalahuipua'a Historic Park

21.0 km

100 m

Hard

Running loop from Fishpond

8.90 km

20 m

Moderate

Waipuhi Fishpond loop from Waiakumalae Point

6.29 km

20 m

Moderate

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1.

Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve via Fisherman Trail loop

11.1km

01:16

50m

50m

The Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve via Fisherman Trail loop offers a truly unique jogging experience, guiding you through ancient Hawaiian history etched into the landscape. You'll navigate varied terrain, from resort paths to rough lava fields, encountering thousands of petroglyphs and enjoying picturesque coastal views. This moderate 6.9-mile (11.1 km) route, with a gentle 150 feet (46 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes to complete, making it a perfect blend of exercise and cultural exploration.

When planning your visit, be sure to bring plenty of water, as the trail offers little shade and the midday sun can be intense. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must, especially for the uneven lava sections within the Petroglyph Reserve and along the King's Highway Foot Trail. While no permits are required, arriving earlier in the day can help you avoid the strongest heat and enjoy a more serene experience among the ancient carvings.

What truly sets this route apart are the thousands of ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs (ki'i pōhaku) carved into the pahoehoe lava, some dating back to the 16th century. The trail follows a section of the historic Mamalahoa Trail, also known as the King's Trail, offering a powerful connection to Hawaii's past. You'll also encounter lava tube cave shelters and informational kiosks that provide context to these fascinating landmarks and natural features.

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2.

Fisherman Trail

3.02km

00:20

10m

10m

This 1.9-mile (3.0 km) segment of the Fisherman Trail offers a quick, easy jogging experience with just 25 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 20 minutes. You'll find yourself immersed in stunning coastal scenery, with dramatic cliff views and the historic Kuʻualiʻi Fishpond along the way. Be ready for soft sand underfoot, which adds a unique challenge to this otherwise short and accessible route.

While the full Fisherman Trail is known for its extensive sandy sections, this particular segment is a great way to get a feel for the terrain without committing to a longer, more strenuous run. Parking is generally available near the trailhead, but it's always wise to arrive early, especially during peak times, to secure a spot. Remember to bring water, as shade can be scarce along the exposed coastline.

The Fisherman Trail is celebrated as one of the most beautiful coastal paths in the world, following ancient routes used by local fishermen. This specific Komoot tour provides a manageable taste of its unique character and natural beauty, allowing you to experience a piece of the protected Southwest Alentejo and Vicentina Coast Natural Park.

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3.

Bridge crossing loop from Waipuhi Iki Fishpond

9.75km

01:02

50m

50m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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6.

Running loop from Fishpond

8.90km

00:55

20m

20m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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7.

Waipuhi Fishpond loop from Waiakumalae Point

6.29km

00:43

20m

20m

If you're seeking a unique blend of history and natural beauty on the Big Island, the Waipuhi Fishpond loop from Waiakumalae Point offers a rewarding experience. This moderate 3.9-mile (6.3 km) jogging route takes you past ancient Hawaiian fishponds, where palm trees line serene waters, and across fascinating pahoehoe lava fields. You'll also enjoy refreshing sea breezes and views of Kakaiwa Bay as the trail meanders towards Makaiwa Beach, providing a varied and engaging journey.

Planning your visit to this historic area is straightforward. The trail is part of the Kalahuipua'a Historic Park and Fishpond Preserve, and you'll find ample parking near the Waiakumalae Point trailhead. No permits are needed, making it an accessible option for a spontaneous outing. Comfortable footwear is recommended due to varied terrain, including some uneven and rocky sections around the ponds.

Beyond the scenic jogging, the Waipuhi Fishpond loop is rich in cultural significance, showcasing how ancient Hawaiians thrived in this environment. You'll encounter collapsed lava tubes and petroglyphs carved into the volcanic surface, with informative panels explaining their historical importance. This 42-minute outing, with a gentle 71 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for those who appreciate a light workout combined with a deep dive into local heritage.

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Tips from the Community

Alex
October 21, 2023, Kings Highway Foot Trail and Petroglyphs

The trail called Kings Highway Foot Trail, intersecting Waikoloa Drive on both sides, takes explorers to ancient Petroglyph fields and large areas of lava rock. Here some very unique petroglyphs can be seen, including some from an era of post-western contact, with a warrior on a horse. This preserve also has a few lave tube caves and some other archaeological ruins for visitors to explore.

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Waikōloa Petroglyph Field is located in the Waikōloa Petroglyph Preserve that lies exactly between a golf course and hotel. It is one of the best preserved petroglyph sites on Hawaiʻi Island. Even though you will find most of the petroglyph at the field, you should already start looking for them on your way as they are scattered all around the area.

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Nestled between Anaeho'omalu Bay and the Marriott is the remnants of an ancient Hawaiian fishpond used to farm fresh fish, a vital food source for coastal chiefs. Originally, seawater flowed in and out, nourishing fish within the rock walls without escape. Now, the pond's edges are overgrown, but its heritage remains as a look into historic aquaculture practices.

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Micha
October 10, 2023, Fisherman Trail

Always keep your eyes open, there are lots of turtles to discover here. But don't get too close when they are resting on the beach ☝🏻

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Given how rusty these parts look, they have been here for a long time...

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The King's Highway Foot Trail delivers stunning views, but demands careful footing across rough lava rocks reflecting heat and undulating sandy terrain. However, this small section of the trail is nicely maintained, so you shouldn't have any footing issues to contend with. Just watch out for a few small, loose rocks along this smooth, easy-to-traverse stretch.

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Nestled within a golf course and hotel, the Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve contains one of Hawaii's most remarkable and accessible petroglyph collections. These lava rock carvings depict unique images like a post-western contact warrior on horseback. Lava tube cave shelters and archaeological ruins are also found within this historical treasure trove.

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This picturesque lookout point boasts panoramic ocean views, stunning sunsets and passing whales, providing a serene vantage point to soak in the area's natural splendor. Take a seat and enjoy the views.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many running routes are available in Waikoloa Beach Resort?

Waikoloa Beach Resort offers a wide selection of over 30 diverse running routes. These trails cater to various preferences and fitness levels, ranging from easy coastal paths to more challenging runs through volcanic terrain.

Are there easy jogging routes suitable for beginners or casual runners?

Yes, the resort area features several easy jogging paths. For instance, the Shipwreck via Fisherman Trail — Hawaiʻi Island is an easy 1.9-mile route offering scenic coastal running along the Pacific Ocean. You'll find a total of 4 easy routes in the area.

What kind of scenic views can I expect on the running trails?

Jogging in Waikoloa Beach Resort offers a stunning variety of views. You can expect picturesque coastal paths with ocean vistas, unique volcanic landscapes including ancient lava fields, and trails that weave through historic fishponds and cultural sites. Many routes, like the Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve via Fisherman Trail loop, combine historical exploration with beautiful natural scenery.

Are there any circular running routes in the area?

Yes, many of the running routes in Waikoloa Beach Resort are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. A great example is the Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve – Kings Highway Foot Trail loop from Kapalaoa, which is 4.7 miles long and takes you through historical landscapes.

What historical or cultural sites can I see while running?

The region is rich in history. Many trails, including portions of the ancient Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail (also known as the King's Trail), pass by significant cultural sites. You can explore the Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve, featuring ancient rock carvings, or discover other historical parks like Kalahuipuaʻa Historic Park. The Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve via Fisherman Trail loop is an excellent route for this.

Are there any long-distance running trails available?

While many routes are moderate in length, you can combine sections of trails or explore longer loops for extended runs. The Bridge crossing loop from ‘Aina L‘ea, for example, is nearly 6 miles (9.7 km) and offers a good distance for a moderate run. The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail itself offers potential for longer stretches.

What do other runners say about the trails in Waikoloa Beach Resort?

The running routes in Waikoloa Beach Resort are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 5 reviews. Over 790 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the unique blend of ancient cultural pathways, diverse coastal environments, and distinctive volcanic geology.

Are there any specific attractions or landmarks along the running routes?

Absolutely! Along your runs, you might encounter several notable attractions. These include the beautiful Hāpuna Beach, the historic Puakō Petroglyph Field, and the scenic Fisherman Trail. You can also find natural formations like the Wainanaliʻi Pond Natural Rock Arch and viewpoints such as Kīholo Overlook.

What is the terrain like for jogging in Waikoloa Beach Resort?

The terrain is quite varied, offering a unique Hawaiian running experience. You'll find paved surfaces and accessible paths, but also more rugged routes through ancient lava fields and along the coastline. Some trails traverse historic pathways, providing a mix of natural and cultural landscapes.

Are there family-friendly jogging paths in Waikoloa?

Yes, Waikoloa Beach Resort offers a range of trails suitable for families. Many of the easier, shorter loops and accessible paths are perfect for a family jog. The resort's wide sidewalks and dedicated bike paths also provide safe and enjoyable options for all ages.

Are there any routes that offer a unique 'only in Hawaii' experience?

Definitely! Jogging through the ancient lava fields provides a distinctive 'only in Hawaii' experience, offering a stark yet beautiful contrast to the coastal scenery. The presence of historic fishponds and unique Anchialine Ponds, supporting diverse marine life, also adds an ecological dimension to your outdoor excursions.

Is there a good route for a moderate run near the Hilton Grand Vacations?

Yes, if you're staying at the Hilton Grand Vacations, you can enjoy the Running loop from Kings Land by Hilton Grand Vacations. This moderate 4-mile (6.5 km) loop is a convenient option for a good workout right from your accommodation.

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