I was in Kona last August. I'm not running the marathon this year, but may in the future. Some things to think about for the race and trip:
-the race starts and finishes on Alii Drive (where the do the Ironman). This is right next to the ocean and is beautiful.
-the majority of the race is in the lava fields, so it will be hot when the sun comes up. Have a hat, drink lots of water/gatorade and don't forget the sunscreen
-Kona is a great place to visit. I hope you have time to take in the sights and especially visit Volcano National Park.
-I stayed at the Kona Coast Resort and enjoyed our stay. It is probably 3 or 4 miles from the race start. Take a look at tripadvisor.com and see what you think of the reviews. Also you can check out other places to stay in the area on the website.

If you are lucky srlopez will respond. He lives in Hawaii part of the year and has run the race before.

David

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Last: Atlanta 11/25; Rocket City 12/11 Next: Disney 1/9; Mercedes 2/13

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There really isn't an off season for Hawaii. I received an email from Delta last week talking about a sale on flights to Hawaii. Keep your eyes open and you may find a good deal on flight and hotel together to Kona. All of the hotels on Alii drive will be close to the start/finish.

We enjoyed Hawaii so much last year we are heading to Maui in the summer. They have a marathon there too in September I think.

The Atlanta to Hawaii flight is a long one. We brought several handheld video games to keep us busy along with books and the in flight movies. More than likely you will fly into to Honolulu and have to catch Aloha or Hawaiian airlines to the big island. If you can manage it you should try and stay a day in Honolulu and tour Pearl Harbor.

David