2024 has been quite eventful for me. We recently returned from a brief getaway to Kona, where we indulged in some warm weather, running, and relaxation. Additionally, we’ve finally set a date for our island trip to coincide with whale watching season, fulfilling a long-standing bucket list item.
Read all our Make a Day of It Features here!
While we’re aware that this spectacle can also be witnessed on the Oregon Coast, we prefer fair weather for our whale watching adventures. To make the most of our excursion, we’ve decided to dedicate an entire day to the experience, combining both running and leisure activities. And Body Glove Kona was up to the challenge.
First the Running:
In Kona, while renowned for hosting the Ironman, the abundance of lava rock limits the availability of optimal running routes. This isn’t a criticism; it’s merely a reflection of the island’s geographical constraints. Navigating the downtown area, like many urban locales in Hawaii, can be hit or miss due to variable road conditions and intermittent sidewalks. Foot traffic adds another layer of unpredictability to your running experience, depending on the time of day. Heading there to run always makes me feel fortunate for the plethora of running routes I have to choose from.
However, amidst these challenges, Body Glove’s check-in location in the heart of Kailua-Kona offers a convenient starting point for runners. Parking at the nearby strip mall, you can head west along the Kuakini Highway to access the Old Kona Airport Recreation area. This area provides a unique running environment, featuring gardens and the remnants of the old airport runway. It’s not the longest of runs, so we recommend doing some out-and-back routes, sprints, or loops to get your mileage. Also, watch for out for the TONS of cats in this area.
Not too far up the road also lies the Ala Nui Kaloko and Māmalahoa Trail Loop in the Kaloko Honokohau National Historical Park. The trails there tend to be longer, so having a car handy is advisable unless you’re comfortable with either running along the main highway or logging in some extra miles.
The Experience
Before stumbling upon Body Glove’s Kona boat offerings, I primarily associated the brand with surfing and swimwear apparel. It came as a pleasant surprise to discover that they also operate a boat in Kona, providing activities such as snorkeling, sunset cruises, and whale watching. We specifically love that they do tourism with an eye towards the environment. You can read more about their impact here.
Checking in at the main location of Body Glove was a breeze – quick, easy, and no fuss. It was just a short, leisurely five-minute stroll down to the loading dock. Honestly, I don’t think the process could’ve been any simpler.
Now, onto the boat itself – sleek, well-kept, and with two levels for seating. There was seating around the outside, where you could enjoy the sun, and along the inside for a bit of extra shelter from the sun. Oh, and they even had mineral sunscreen on hand to keep everyone protected.
You know, sometimes when you’re out on the ocean, it’s a bit hit or miss. We’ve been on dolphin and snorkeling tours where we barely saw a thing. On that whale watching tour in Kauai last year we were met with crazy wind and eaves and only one whale sighting way off in the distance. But hey, that’s nature for you, right? No point in getting worked up about it.
But let me tell you, being smack dab in the middle of whale territory in February on the Big Island… well, let’s just say our hopes were high. And Body Glove didn’t let us down one bit.
First off, the boat was top-notch, with plenty of complimentary snacks and drinks (though I’ll pass on the open bar at sea, thanks). And the cherry on top? A super knowledgeable naturalist on board, ready to answer all our burning questions about these majestic creatures.
Over the course of our 2 1/2 hour excursion, we were treated to a whale extravaganza. We saw so many whales – spouting, swimming, you name it. We even got to witness two breaches, which was a real highlight. And then, just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, we had the most incredible encounter.
Picture this: a curious whale decided to swim right up to our corner of the ship, showing off its majestic self for everyone to see. It was like something out of a dream – even the crew was buzzing with excitement. I mean, talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
So yeah, having such an amazing whale sighting definitely made our day, but honestly, the whole Body Glove experience was top-notch. The crew was friendly, enthusiastic, and genuinely passionate about whale watching. Plus, the cherry on top? Once you’ve been on an excursion with Body Glove, you get a discount for life on any future trips. Sign me up – we’ll definitely be back for more whale-watching adventures with these guys!
Body Glove Hawaii
Disclaimer:
Body Glove provided Run Oregon with a complimentary cruise. However, all thoughts about the experience are Run Oregon’s.