Head to Hawaii for windsurfing, Honolulu Marathon & more

Winter swells bring surfers and more to Oahu's Sunset Beach. Credit: bryce_edwards.

By Susan Johnston

For those seeking a taste of adventure and tropical sun this fall or winter, few destinations can top Hawaii and its legendary Honolulu hotels. Not only the perfect time of year to escape the cold, taking a Hawaii vacation to Oahu and during the months of November and December promises excitement across the Aloha State for active enthusiasts, especially when it comes to the much-anticipated Honolulu Marathon.

Start with the Kona Coffee Festival, the state’s oldest food festival, running November 5-14. Since this year’s celebration marks the 40th anniversary, it’s sure to be bigger and better than ever, complete with concerts, parades, coffee tastings, farm tours, even a Little Miss Kona Coffee Pageant.

Meanwhile on Oahu, November is prime windsurfing season. The annual Vans Triple Crown runs throughout November and December with men’s and women’s events. Oahu’s North Shore is legendary for its mind-blowing waves, which attract surf enthusiasts from around the world.

Oahu will also host the Honolulu Marathon on December 12, 2010. Runners from around the globe flock to Honolulu for the big race, and the race week celebration includes a luau and concert.

If you’re headed here this winter for the Honolulu Marathon or just because, make sure you check out the accomodations at these Hawaii hotels :

1. Turtle Bay Resort: Those who want to be close to all the action on Oahu’s North Shore should check into the Turtle Bay Resort. In addition to almost five miles of beachfront, it also has two championship golf course, ten tennis courts and hiking and mountain bike trails.
2. Royal Kona Resort: If you’re headed to the Kona Coffee Festival, the Royal Kona Resort offers an ideal blend of oceanfront views and a convenient location. Each of their guestrooms feature outdoor lanais, too.
3. Marriott—the Waikiki EDITION: The Waikiki EDITION marks the first joint venture between Marriott and travel titan Ian Schrager. Just opened this October, the hotel features a private sunset beach, specialized surf and bikini boot camp fitness programs, even an outdoor movie theater under the stars.
4. The Four Seasons Lodge at Koele: Located on the beautifully serene island of Lanai, the Four Seasons Lodge at Koele was recognized as one of Orbitz’s best holiday decorations last year. If you’re looking for a secluded oasis of calm, then Lanai is your ideal destination. There are no stop lights, no nigh clubs, just classic Hawaiian hospitality without the crowds.
5. The Four Seasons Manele Bay: Also situated on the island of Lanai, the Four Seasons Manele Bay borders a marine preserve bursting with colorful reef fish and other wildlife. And don’t let the Four Seasons name scare you away; room rates are actually quite reasonable for such luxurious accommodations.

So, whether you want a relaxing getaway or an active adventure, you’ll find beach vacations and big fun paired with beautiful views on the Big Island, Oahu, and Lanai.

Susan Johnston lives and writes from the Boston, Mass. area. She’s eagerly awaiting her next trip to Hawaii.