Kayaking to the Mokulua Islands: The Ultimate Oahu Adventure

Description

Kayaking to the Mokulua Islands, or "The Mokes," is one of the most breathtaking coastal adventures on Oahu. The journey begins from Kailua Beach or Lanikai Beach, where paddlers set out across the clear, blue waters of Kailua Bay. The islands sit just over a mile offshore, making the trip accessible while still offering the excitement of an open-ocean paddle.

As you move across the bay, the Koʻolau Mountains tower behind you, and Moku Nui—the larger of the two islands—grows closer with each stroke. The paddle takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on wind and ocean conditions. Along the way, keep an eye out for Hawaiian green sea turtles gliding beneath your kayak and seabirds soaring overhead.

Once you reach Moku Nui, the only Mokulua Island open to visitors, pull your kayak onto the soft, white sand beach and take in the pristine beauty of this protected seabird sanctuary. From here, a range of activities awaits:

Hike to the Island’s Backside: A short, rocky trail leads to breathtaking ocean views and Queen’s Bath, a natural tide pool that fills with seawater during high tide.
Snorkel in Clear, Shallow Waters: Explore the coral reefs surrounding the island, home to tropical fish and marine life.
Relax on the Beach: Enjoy the peace of a remote island, far from the crowds, where calm waters lap at the shore and the sound of seabirds fills the air.
Discover Hidden Tide Pools: Small pools on the island’s rocky coastline provide a chance to see sea urchins, crabs, and tiny fish up close.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Moku Nui delivers an experience that feels untouched and wild.

After a few hours of exploring, swimming, and taking in the incredible scenery, it’s time to paddle back to shore. The return trip often feels easier as the breeze and currents shift in your favor. As you make your way back to Kailua Beach, take a final look at the islands behind you—a reminder of the untouched beauty that makes this experience so special.

What's included

Self-Guided Kayak Rental ($60+)

Kayak, paddle, and life vest
Dry bag for personal items
Optional snorkel gear
Safety briefing and basic paddling instructions

Guided Kayak Tour ($150+)

All kayak rental equipment (kayak, paddle, life vest, dry bag)
Professional guide and full tour experience
Snorkeling gear and optional reef shoes
Lunch and refreshments
Access to private facilities with lockers and showers

Itinerary

Launch from Kailua Beach or Lanikai Beach: Start your journey in calm morning waters for the best conditions.
Paddle Across Kailua Bay: Enjoy views of the Koʻolau Mountains and keep an eye out for marine life.
Land on Moku Nui: Pull your kayak onto the beach and begin your island exploration.
Hike to Scenic Viewpoints: Take in ocean views and explore the Queen’s Bath tide pool.
Snorkel in Clear Waters: Swim among coral reefs and tropical fish.
Relax on the Beach: Enjoy a break on the island’s secluded shore.
Paddle Back to Kailua Beach: End your journey with a smooth return to shore.

Packing List

Water Shoes or Secure Sandals: The island’s backside is rocky, and good footwear makes hiking easier.
Swimsuit & Quick-Dry Clothing: Expect to get wet while paddling and exploring.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Essential for protecting your skin and the environment.
Waterproof Bag: To keep your phone, camera, and other essentials dry.
Plenty of Water & Snacks: No services are available on the island.
Towel & Change of Clothes: For comfort after your paddle.

4.4 ● Google reviews

Olivia O'Hara

3 months ago

Great place to get kayaks from for a week! Free delivery to our Kailua rental house with mounting foam blocks/straps, anchors, paddles, and life vests. Loved that we could rent tandem kayaks.
Marina

3 years ago

Absolutely great walk-in rental experience. Jeff gave me a detailed instructions where to park, how to handle kayak as a solo kayaker, what to do and never do on the water, how to get back safe and have the best time on water. He helped me to put kayak on the car and everything didn't take more than 10 minutes. Absolute highlight of my trip to Oahu.
Jennifer Velo

3 years ago

Fantastic experience. This local place went above and beyond to make a last minute 24-hr kayak rental happen, even coming back to the shop after hours to accommodate my work schedule. So appreciative! The foam racks, quick release tie down straps, and help loading made it a quick and easy process. I was even given a brief wind and swell report for the next day. Kayaks, seats, paddles, and dry bag were all excellent quality. Fast and easy equipment return. This will definitely be my go to shop for kayak rentals from now on.
Todd and Molly Merry

2 years ago

The best part about this rental was the detailed instructions on where to park, how to be safe, how to land without capsizing and what to explore. We had a great day at the Mokes. Unloading and walking to the beach wasn't too difficult thanks to their expertise on where to park. Reasonable price also.
Trader Joe

2 years ago

The best place for cheap and good Kayak rentals. It is located 19 mins (car drive) from the dock. The half day costs around 60$ and the staff is super helpful as well as friendly. Everything was explained very clearly, they give you equipment and attach the Kayak safely on the roof of your car. You will also receive life vests, an anchor for the kayak and paddles, as well as clear instructions where to park, which path to take when you kayak to the sandbars and what to look out for. We had an amazing time and want to thank the Watersports team for making this happen. Mahalo!

FAQs