It’s that time of year again, when the normally laid-back town of Kailua-Kona transforms into a global stage of grit, glory, and Spandex/Lycra.
While I’ve been preoccupied riding the emotional rollercoaster of the Dodgers’ postseason (can we just beat the Phillies already?), here in Kona, something just as adrenaline-pumping is happening: the Ironman World Championship.
And yes, it’s a big deal—even if you’re not into triathlons.
Kona in Full Athlete Mode
Every October, the town shifts. The air changes. Even our daily grocery runs to KTA come with the chance of bumping into an elite athlete, often unmistakable by their power-packed builds and focused gazes. You can’t miss them.
This year, the Ironman is a women-only race, but you’d never guess it by the energy. Nearly 3,000 athletes from around the world have landed in Kona, and you can feel it everywhere – from Alii Drive, Queen K Hwyway to Kailuea Bay.
There’s a healthy kind of intensity floating through town this week. And honestly, it’s kind of inspiring.
Not Racing? You’ll Still Want to Watch This…
Even if you don’t care about triathlons (or even cardio in general), I highly recommend watching the race course preview videos. They showcase Hawaii Island so beautifully that even locals rediscover just how incredible this place is.
The sweeping shots of lava fields, the coastline around Hawi, the ocean sparkles off Queen K Highway—it’s enough to make anyone fall in love with the Big Island all over again. Worth a watch with your morning coffee.
(Course Video)Traffic Warnings (Yes, This Is Your Heads-Up)
Of course, with big events come big detours. The traffic closures are real—and very much a part of Ironman Week.
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Aliʻi Drive near the King Kamehameha Hotel is already closed to cars for race setup.
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Saturday (race day) is essentially a full downtown shutdown. Plan accordingly.
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Portions of the Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway from Kona to Hāwī will also be closed at times, depending on the race schedule.
If you’re flying into Kona this weekend—or trying to get out—be aware: race-day traffic patterns can impact airport access. And the day after the race (Sunday), you’ll see bikes everywhere at the airport. It gets packed.
Your best strategy? Embrace Hawaiian time. Give yourself grace and a few extra hours.
👉 You can check the official traffic advisory map HERE.
A Fun Local Tip: Go See the Setup
Even if you’re not watching the race itself, there’s something really special about seeing Aliʻi Drive transform. I like to stroll down there early in the morning or around sunset. The bleachers, flags, and sponsor tents—it all builds this feeling of anticipation.
In our house, we’ve made a tradition of waking up before sunrise on race day. We’ll head down to the waterfront, coffee in hand, and cheer on the athletes as they charge into the ocean. Their discipline and drive? It always makes me sit up straighter, breathe a little deeper, and remember just how powerful the human spirit can be.
Ironman Day = Full Island Shutdown (Even for Real Estate Agents)
In real estate, we don’t usually stop—not even during the holidays. But Ironman Saturday? That’s our unofficial day off. Even clients in town understand they’ll be stuck at the hotel all day. It’s part of the tradition now: “No showings today—it’s Ironman!”
Yes, the traffic’s a hassle, and the reroutes can get frustrating. But once a year, Kona becomes something else—a global stage for challenge, perseverance, and community support.
If you’re lucky enough to be on the Big Island this week, soak it in. Watch the finish line. Cheer at mile markers. Or simply take a moment to feel the energy that only Kona, during Ironman week, can bring.
See you at the finish line.
