TOP PLACES TO PRACTICE YOGA IN HONOLULU
October 19, 2016
Let’s be honest, sticking to a fitness schedule on vacation can be a daunting task. However, when you visit a picturesque place like Oahu, Hawaii, warm waters and waves beckon you to grab your board or take a dip; waterfalls and panoramic views entice you to go on a hike; and the cool trade winds tempt you to head outside for a jog or a bike ride. Not to mention, the mana (energy) of the island urges you to take time to connect with your mind and body. We think yoga is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways you can incorporate a fitness regimen into your jam-packed vacation schedule. Below, our picks of the top places to practice yoga while on vacation in Honolulu.
Sun salutations have a whole new meaning at Flo Yoga Hawaii. With outdoor classes at Waikiki’s picturesque Sans Souci State Recreational Park, visitors and residents alike can experience a fun and effective practice. The beachfront setting is the perfect place to start or end your day.
| Sans Souci Beach Park |
This Waikiki haven has a variety of classes to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a deep stretch after a long flight, a meditative experience, prenatal yoga (looking at you, babymooners), or a high-energy dance and cardio class, Ohana Space Yoga has the class for you.
| 1888 Kalakaua Avenue, #C-307 |
Located in the quaint Diamond Head neighborhood, Open Space Yoga is just minutes from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, but feels like a world away. The company’s Waikiki-Diamond Head studio offers ashtanga, hatha, kundalini, prenatal, restorative yoga and more—providing a comfortable space for yogis of all levels. Private group sessions are available and there’s even a Visitor Special: $50 for one week of unlimited yoga.
| 3106 Monsarrat Avenue |
If you’re looking for a real muscle burn and a spiritual buzz, Power Yoga Hawaii is the place for you. The high-intensity classes (like Vinyasa Boot(y) Camp and Shakti Flow) make up for the Mai Tais and musubi you’ll sample throughout your trip. There’s no need to make a reservation to these donation-based classes, just show up, roll out your mat and watch the magic happen.
| 1810 University Avenue; 4400 Kalanianaole Hightway; and 510 Piikoi Street, Suite 200 |
PILATES O KA LA ROOFTOP PILATES AT THE SURFJACK
Every third Thursday, enjoy a dynamic group Pilates session while watching the sunset behind the Waikiki skyline from the Surfjack penthouse lanai. Pilates O Ka La founder, yogi and Pilates instructor Chelsea Peck leads a class suitable for all levels. Mats are provided by Lululemon Honolulu.
| 412 Lewers Street |
Sunset Yoga Hawaii’s morning and sunset yoga classes allow you to zen out under the palms, overlooking the ocean on the quieter side of Waikiki. Great for all levels, these vinyasa classes focus on mindfulness and connecting with the land.
| 2735 Kalakaua Avenue |
Expand your horizons while looking into the horizon from the calm waters of Ala Moana Beach Park. Yoga Floats founder Kelsey Barden, an avid yogi and paddler herself, offers residents and visitors a unique class that combines yoga with the uplifting qualities of the ocean and the beauty of Hawaii. Here, yoga moves are performed on a stand up paddle board, but don’t fret, Yoga Floats classes don’t require any experience, just an open mind.
| 1201 Ala Moana Boulevard |
photo via Yoga Floats