Kaneohe Bay Kayak & Snorkel Self-Guided Tour [Tour Not Available]

Kayak from Heeia Kea State Park on a self-guided Kaneohe Bay Sandbar kayak rental trip to one of Kaneohe Bay's many pristine, remote offshore patch reefs and sandbars. Choose from a single or double-kayak rental and enjoy magnificent views of the Koolau mountain range as you paddle out into the calm, protected waters of Kaneohe Bay, home to Oahu's healthiest coral reef system and abundant marine life. See a variety of tropical fish and Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles as you explore Kaneohe Bay on the best Oahu sandbar kayak rental.

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Why do travelers choose this tour?

As the most conveniently located kayak and snorkel rental company on Kaneohe Bay, Kamaaina Kayak offers easy access to both Kaneohe Bay and its famous sandbar. No need for driving, dragging, or transporting your kayaks and gear since everything is conveniently set up right on the water’s edge, and awaiting your adventure!

Through its partnership with the nonprofit Kamaaina Kids program, Kaimana Kayak contributes directly to the funding of Heeia State Park and to Kamaaina Kids, a local nonprofit childcare organization responsible for park management. By embarking on a Kaneohe Bay kayak adventure, guests are actively contributing to the well-being of the local community.

Enjoy the convenience of flexible check-in times beginning at 8:00AM for both half-day and full-day rentals. This option provides guests with the flexibility to tailor your schedule during your stay on Oahu, ensuring maximum enjoyment and convenience. Whether embarking on a morning exploration or planning a full-day excursion, the many check-in times will allow guests to make the most of your time on the island.

Although wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, Kaneohe Bay is home to a thriving population of Hawaiian green sea turtles, and paddlers will often have a strong chance of encountering these majestic creatures, along with an array of other marine life if you are in the perfect place at the perfect time.

How does it work?

After arriving and parking at Heeia Kea State Park check in at the office and take a short stroll down to the water, where the kayaks and gear await. Check-in times are flexible, scheduled by the hour, and half-day rentals include up to 4 hours of adventure, while full-day rentals include up to 8 hours.

Before setting off from the waterfront, the expert local staff will provide a waterproof map of the bay and a comprehensive briefing on available destinations, snorkeling spots, and current conditions. Staff members will also ensure that you will be equipped with all of the necessary gear and information for a safe and enjoyable day on Kaneohe Bay.

The main sandbar, located roughly 1.5 miles from the state park launch point, is among the recommended destinations, and the furthest, but there are numerous smaller private sandbars scattered throughout the bay, much closer than the main sandbar which can become crowded with boats.

Guests are asked that all equipment is returned by the designated time specified at launch. Late returns will result in fees as outlined in the rental agreement, and kayaks must be returned no later than 3:45 PM.

Recommended Points of Interest & Snorkeling Sites

• Sunken Island: This popular destination, also known as the Kaneohe Sandbar, requires the longest paddle, and the sandbar is typically submerged around one to three feet deep, with an exposed beach appearing only during extreme low tides. For accurate wind and tide predictions, be sure to consult with staff members before departure.
• Sunken City: The "Sunken City" is a formation of tall foundation posts submerged near patch reef areas, and are remnants of a failed conceptual experiment. Over the years, coral has grown and formed around these structures, making it a fascinating snorkeling site.
• Coconut Island: Operated by the University of Hawaii's Institute of Marine Biology, Coconut Island is private property where landing is not permitted, although exploring by kayak offers a fantastic close-up view of this iconic spot, which is also known as "Gilligan's Island."
• Fringing Reef: The fringing reef encircles the Kaneohe Bay shoreline, offering a shallow, mostly sandy area extending several hundred feet from shore. It is beginner-friendly, with waters typically shallow enough to stand in comfortably. The calmest waters are found inside of this reef, making it an excellent spot for beginners to practice.
Remote Patch Reefs: Formed by the healthiest living coral reef on Oahu, these remote patch reefs offer numerous opportunities for exploration and snorkeling among vibrant marine life.
• He’eia Fishpond: This ancient Hawaiian fishpond is one of the largest and most intact in all of Hawaii. While landing, climbing, or touching the wall is not permitted due to private ownership, exploring by kayak provides an incredible close-up look at this iconic symbol of ancient Hawaiian culture.

What is the difference between the packages

• Single Kayak: Accommodates one participant per kayak
• Tandem Kayak: Accommodates two participants per kayak

• Standard Package: Includes kayak, paddle, and life jacket only.
• Premium Package: Includes kayak, paddle, lifejacket, snorkeling equipment (snorkel, masks and fins), dry bag to store belongings, and a kayak anchor.

Local expert tips

• Kaneohe Bay features calm waters that are shielded from ocean swell and waves, but wind and tide conditions significantly influence your experience and the level of difficulty. It is very important to stay informed about the current conditions and forecast before embarking on your adventure.
• Tandem kayaks are great options for children to experience kayaking with an adult paddler. If you have young children who are not able to paddle on their own, be sure to book a tandem kayak option to paddle with them.
• There are no lockers available, and it is not recommended that you leave any valuables in your vehicle.
• Recommend attire: Since there are no restrooms out on the sandbar, guests should wear their swimsuit under their clothing. Sunglasses and brimmed hat are very helpful when out exploring the sandbar.
• Recommend items to bring: Guests should bring beach towels and reef-safe sunscreen. Food and non-alcoholic drinks are more than welcome, but guests should be aware that space is limited on the kayak. Electronics and other valuable items should be placed in a dry bag.
• Although each guest will be equipped with a life jacket for safety, it is important that all participants, including children, possess basic swimming skills. This requirement ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
• To check when high and low tide is predicted at the Kaneohe Bay Sandbar, click here to be directed to the official National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website.
• Guests should be aware that there is no guarantee of making it to one particular destination or another since Kaneohe Bay is quite large. Feasible paddling distances depend on conditions and individual ability levels, and regardless of your chosen destination, it is essential to manage your time responsibly and ensure you can return under your own power.

How to get there?

He'eia Kea State Park is approximately 45 minutes away from both Waikiki and Ko Olina by car. From Waikiki, you will take H1 to Likelike Highway before heading on to Kamehameha Highway. From Ko Olina, you will take H1 to H3 before heading on to Kamehameha Highway.

There is plenty of parking available at the park, and check-in is located at the banquet hall building at the top of the parking lot.

Public transportation is available on The Bus on the #60 Kaneohe-Haleiwa route, but due to possible delays and the length of time, it is not recommended.