Kualoa Beach Park Kayak Rental & Mokoli'i Island Snorkel Adventure - Active Oahu

Get ready for a unique kayaking adventure to Mokoliʻi, an ancient islet located 1/3 mile off of Oahu’s scenic east hore near Kualoa Ranch. Known for its dramatic shape and cultural significance, Mokoliʻi means “little lizard” in Hawaiian and is tied to legends of the goddessed Pele and Hiʻiaka. Begin your journey with convenient kayak rental and expert guidance from knowledgeable staff at the pick-up location Kailua, and once you arrive at Kualoa Beach Park, paddle 15 to 30 minutes across the calm, clear waters of Windward Oʻahu. Once you arrive, explore the shoreline or take an informal trail to the top. While not an official hike, many enjoy the short, steep climb for its panoramic views of the Koʻolau Mountains and the ocean. This self-guided experience offers the perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and Hawaiian legend.

---

Why do travelers choose this tour?

Anyone looking to escape the crowds and discover a lesser-known Oʻahu gem will love the self-guided Mokoli'i kayak, snorkel, and hike tour. While this iconic island is easy to see from shore and is a popular photo stop, its offshore location keeps it uncrowded and beautifully preserved.

This self-guided tour not only provides an excellent experience where you can explore at your own pace, but is also a great way to enjoy the calm waters of Oʻahu's windward shore on the east side of the island.

Go on a kayaking tour that gets you off the beaten path and explore both the ocean and land with snorkeling and a nature hike around Mokoli'i.

Local expert tips

• During the summer months (end of May to the beginning of September), ocean conditions are calmer and more predictable, and the area is much more accessible.
• The best time of day to kayak on Oʻahu is in the morning since the wind tends to pick up in the afternoon and can cause rougher ocean conditions and murkier water.
• Participants should be comfortable swimming in open water if planning on swimming or snorkeling. This tour is recommended for experienced or advanced kayak paddlers.
• The tour includes a compact 15-liter dry bag to keep your personal items safe and dry. While bringing plenty of water and snacks is highly recommended, please remember to pack out all trash. Protecting the marine environment helps preserve this beautiful spot for future visitors and local wildlife.
• Wear a swimsuit, and bring a hat, sunglasses, water shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen. You will need to wear sneakers or reef shoes to hike around Mokoli'i.

How does it work?

After your check-in, the experts at Active Oahu will go over the basics of how to kayak and snorkel, and point out the routes for the best way to get to Mokoli'i. Although snorkeling equipment is provided, you do not need to go into the water to enjoy this tour. If you plan to snorkel, make sure you are physically able to get back into the kayak from the water. You will land on the west side of the island in a small rocky inlet, so have your shoes ready to explore.

There are two options for hiking Mokoli'i. There is the walk around the circumference, which is the easiest and most recommended, or the hike to the top for a more challenging route that is best suited for experienced adventurers. The trail is steep, rocky, and can be slippery. Be prepared to use both your hands and feet during the climb.

How to get there?

Check-in location to pick up the kayak: Meet Active Oahu Tour's staff in Kailua Town (134 Hamakua Dr. Unit B, Kailua, HI 96762).
The friendly team will guide you through strapping the kayak onto your vehicle and provide all the necessary equipment. All you need is a 4-door car to transport it. Please show up 15 minutes before your booking time.

Itinerary: Please note that it's a 30-minute drive from the Active Kayak Shop in Kailua to Kualoa Regional Park. You will be launching the kayak into Kaneohe Bay from Kualoa Regional Park (49-479 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744). There is ample parking available, and your kayaks will launch just steps from the parking lot.