Half Distance Triathlon Hawaii - Kohala Coast Summary Experience the stunning Kohala Coast in Hawaii's Half Distance Triathlon, starting at Pauoa Bay on the Fairmont Orchid grounds. Athletes dive into a 1.2-mile swim in the crystal-clear Pacific waters, warmed to a perfect 75°F (24°C), with the sun rising over the island. The 56-mile bike course, part of the iconic IRONMAN World Championship route, leads cyclists along the magical Kohala Coast, through rolling hills and vast lava fields, ...