Kailua Bay: Kayak & Snorkel to Mokulua Islands with Lunch

Summary

Kayak Kailua Bay’s calm waters to bird sanctuaries and sea turtles

You’ll paddle from Kailua Beach across turquoise water to the Mokulua Islands or Flat Island, guided by locals who know every current and story. Swim at Lanikai Beach, snorkel with sea turtles if you’re lucky, then share lunch on island sands while seabirds soar overhead. Expect laughter, salt spray, and moments that linger long after you’ve rinsed off the sand.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I was nervous dragging that kayak across the sand at Kailua Beach Park. The sun already felt warm on my shoulders, and I could hear the waves before I saw them. Our guide, Keoni, joked about my “technique” (there wasn’t one), but he helped me get sorted. There was this salty breeze and a faint smell of sunscreen everywhere — it kind of stuck with me all day. We set off from the shore, paddles splashing quietly, heading toward those two green humps on the horizon — the Mokulua Islands. That first stretch is calm, but you feel small out there in the blue.

Keoni pointed out some local birds circling above us — he called them ‘iwa and tried to teach me how to say it right. I probably butchered it; he laughed anyway. We passed Lanikai Beach, where the sand really does feel like flour under your toes if you stop for a swim. The water’s so clear you spot flashes of yellow fish even before putting on a mask. When we landed on Moku Nui (the bigger Mokulua), there were only a handful of people around — just us and some monk seals dozing in the sun like they owned the place.

After a short hike up rocky paths (I slipped once, but nobody saw), we reached Queen’s Bath tide pool. It’s not fancy — just a pocket of ocean water surrounded by black lava rock — but dunking in after paddling felt better than any spa. Lunch was simple sandwiches and fruit, eaten cross-legged on the sand while watching clouds drift over the Ko‘olau Mountains. Keoni told stories about Hawaiian explorers who crossed these same waters in way less comfortable boats than ours. I still think about that view sometimes when things get loud back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and snorkel around Kailua Bay

• Wait for hotel pickup or park for free
• Meet guide or briefing staff
• Receive orientation and gear
• Launch kayaks from Kailua Beach
• Paddle along Lanikai Beach
• Visit Moku Nui bird sanctuary
• Hike to Queen's Bath tide pool
• Swim in salt water jacuzzi
• Snorkel with sea turtles and fish
• Enjoy picnic lunch with views
• Return kayak to Kailua Beach

Top questions

How long does the Kailua Bay kayak & snorkel tour take?

The tour generally lasts most of the day; rentals must be returned by 5pm.

Is hotel pickup included for this Oahu kayak tour?

Hotel pickup is available if selected during booking; otherwise free parking is provided.

Do I need kayaking experience for this day trip?

No prior experience needed—guides provide safety briefing and basic instruction before launch.

Are life jackets and snorkel gear included?

Yes, all kayak equipment, life jackets, snorkel gear, dry bag and lockers are included.

Can children join this Kailua Bay kayak tour?

Yes—children 15 or under must ride in a double kayak with an adult.

Where does the tour start?

The adventure starts at Kailua Beach Adventures near Kailua Beach Park on Oahu.

What wildlife might I see during this trip?

You may spot green sea turtles, monk seals on Moku Nui Island, and native seabirds overhead.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Yes—a picnic lunch and drinks are included for all participants.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup if selected or free parking at Kailua Beach Adventures, full use of kayaks and all safety equipment, a friendly local guide (if you choose guided), permits for landing on islands like Moku Nui or Flat Island, lockers for your stuff while you’re out paddling, snorkel gear for exploring reefs at Lanikai Beach or around the islands, plus a picnic lunch and drinks enjoyed right on the sand before heading back in time for showers onsite.