Running the streets of O'ahu

Running is one of the simplest forms of sports or recreation, and living in Hawai'i makes it even easier.

There is no need for mittens, beanies or double layers of clothing.

Instead, just slip on your four "S's" — shorts, shirt, socks, shoes — and head out the door.

Finding a course to run, though, might not be that easy, with the traffic and lack of curbside space.

If you prefer to stay in the comfort of your own neighborhood, near water and restrooms, then here are some suggested courses that might fit your needs and preferences.

Starting with the Kailua area last month, The Advertiser began providing neighborhood courses on which to run. We'll try to run this feature once a month.

Each course is rated according to how well they live up to standards for a running course with regards to safety, facilities and parking.

Ratings key
	Poor. No or few facilities, safety is low and parking is a chore.
	Fair. Parking, safety, facilities are adequate.
	Good. Course is worth looking into.
	Very good. Almost the best in parking, safety, facilities, maybe lacking more water fountains.
	Excellent. The best there is.
Upcoming reviews	Ala Moana • Kapi'olani Park

Taking Manoa Road is just one of the options of running through scenic Manoa Valley. Photo by Christian Friis

Traffic here can be worse than in the city.

Still, Manoa Valley offers many different runs, though only two of the shorter options are described here.

"It is a nice valley to start the morning, the best scenery you can ever imagine," said Cheryl Smith, a former University of Hawai'i runner."

"It is easy to find different places to run here," said Terry Martin, 38. "The hills vary along the run and the peacefulness of the valley gives you time to think."

You can start anywhere, but our first suggestion includes a three-mile loop starting on Woodlawn Drive across from the Manoa Public Library.

The run includes a long hill on a winding road in the middle of the run, but if you prefer to stay on a flat course, option two may be better.

	Map: Manoa Valley runs
	How it rates Facilities (water fountains and restrooms): Safety: Parking: Rated: For everyone, but be careful of traffic. Distance: 3 miles and up. Enjoyment rating: Enjoy the cool weather, but be mindful of traffic.

This road will eventually take you to the top of the Chinese Cemetery and to East Manoa Road.

Continue down the hill and when you get to Lowrey Avenue, take a left and this will lead you back up to Woodlawn, where you will take a right and will soon be back at the Manoa Public Library.

"My morning runs go this way and I could not imagine a better way to wake up, watching the sky change color as I run down Woodlawn Road, and overlooking the ocean," Smith said.

• Option Two: For those who would prefer to skip the hills, try this out-and-back run.

From the same starting point, run up Woodlawn Drive and go onto Lowrey Avenue. Take a right, and run up to Manoa Road.

When you come to a four-way intersection (also known as "Five Corners"), make another right on Manoa Road, and you will find yourself going farther into the valley. Continuing on Manoa Road will eventually take you up to Paradise Park, which marks the turnaround point. If you prefer a shorter run, turn right on Pawaina Street, take a left on Pakanu Street to head back to Woodlawn.

A little hill will take you up to the Chinese Cemetery, where you will take a right on Old East Manoa Road. Continue down Old East Manoa Road to get back to Lowrey Avenue, then take a right. Just one more right on Woodlawn Drive and you will be back where you started.