Captain Bruce Kaneohe Sandbar Cruise with SUP, Guided Snorkel & Transportation

Embark on a fun Kaneohe Bay Sandbar tour with Captain Bruce. Depart from the Heeia Kea Boat Harbor and cruise across the calm waters of Kaneohe Bay to the sandbar in a stable power catamaran that has ample seating and shade. Enjoy the shallows of the sandbar, a perfect place for pictures with stunning views of the Ko’olau Mountains in the background. Explore the turtle reef, home to many Hawaiian green sea turtles, on a guided snorkeling tour. Enjoy paddling across the sandbar on an included stand-up paddle board or enjoy relaxing in the shallow clear water.

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Why do travelers choose this tour?

With years of expertise and all the necessary permits to the Kaneohe Bay sandbar, Captain Bruce ensures a safe journey to an oasis of fun. Guests can enjoy a guided snorkeling experience among tropical fish and sea turtles, and bask in paradise on a family-friendly ocean adventure.

There is something for everyone to do with the Captain Bruce Kaneohe Bay sandbar cruise. For those who want to splash and swim, there are ample opportunities to snorkel and explore the coral reefs. You can enjoy stand-up paddle boarding or simply relax on a flotation device.

Get ready for double the fun with two convenient departure times in the morning and afternoon. Whether you're an early riser or looking to sleep in on your Hawaiian holiday, there is a time that suits everyone's schedule.

Not only will you get to experience an amazing ocean adventure at the Oahu sandbar, but guests also receive complimentary roundtrip transportation from 12 Waikiki hotels and resorts. This ensures that your journey to Captain Bruce's is not only convenient but also stress and hassle-free.

This Kaneohe Bay sandbar tour is BYOB to make it even more affordable for guests. Pack your favorite snacks and drinks to create your own personalized picnic paradise on the stunning Kaneohe Bay sandbar. Enjoy the freedom to sip and snack as you soak up the sun and savor the beauty of this tropical oasis.

How does it work?

Depart from Heeia Kea Harbor on Oahu's east coast to the Sandbar in Kaneohe Bay. After a brief 10 to 15 minute cruise, you will be greeted by the sight of shallow waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs, setting the stage for a day of adventure at Captain Bruce's exclusive activity point.

As you anchor at the sandbar, Captain Bruce's tour begins where you can stand in the water, allowing guests to ease into snorkeling adventures in the shallows before venturing deeper. The expert crew will also ensure snorkel gear is properly worn, so that you can safely explore the underwater world filled with tropical fish and sea turtles. Guests can even enjoy complimentary use of stand-up paddleboards (SUP) and floatation devices, or simply relax on the boat to soak up the sun.

After approximately two hours at the sandbar, it will be time to pack up your things, and head back to the harbor with lasting memories of your time on Kaneohe Bay.

Local expert tips

• Guests should be aware that at high tide, the sandbar submerges into hip-deep water, transforming into a serene oasis. During low tide, it emerges as a pristine sandy beach, offering a perfect spot to unwind. Regardless of the tide, the shallow waters make it an ideal location for children, novice swimmers, snorkelers, and anyone seeking a tranquil water experience.
• 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
• Don't forget to generously apply sunscreen since there's no shade available at the sandbar. For extra protection, it's recommended that guests, especially children and individuals with sensitive skin, wear rashguards or long-sleeve swimwear, along with a hat, to shield themselves from the sun's rays.
• To safeguard the fragile coral reefs and to maintain a healthy marine ecosystem at the Kaneohe Bay sandbar, it is very important to use reef-safe sunscreen. These specialized sunscreens do not contain the harmful chemicals that could potentially harm marine life.
• Other than soft drinks and snacks, no other food or beverages are available during the cruise, but guests are more than welcome to bring their own drinks and food to enjoy. A shared cooler is provided if you would like to keep your wine, beer, or other drinks chilled, and for safety reasons, glass containers are not allowed.
• All guests must have minimum swimming ability of 16 yards (15 meters) while wearing a life jacket without fins to be able to snorkel at the coral reef. If you're unsure about your swimming skills, it's best to remain on the sandbar where you can participate in aquatic activities such as stand-up paddleboarding and relaxing with comfortable flotation devices.
• If you are driving to the Captain Bob's sandbar cruise, take this opportunity to explore the windward side of Oahu with the towns of Kailua and Kaneohe after your tour. Both areas are popular with locals and feature a number of restaurants and stores.

How to get there?

He'eia Kea Boat Harbor 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.

While there is parking available at the harbor, be sure that you do not park in a stall that is reserved or for boat trailers only. Should parking at the harbor not be available, there is street parking available along Kamehameha Highway.

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.

Complimentary round-trip transportation from Waikiki is also available, and very convenient for guests staying at a Waikiki hotel or resort.

Boat information

The 40 ft power catamaran is certified for up to 30 guests with ample seating and shaded areas on board. There are restrooms available, and guests are welcome to leave their belongings on the boat while enjoying the water.