Paddle through the clear waters of Kailua Bay on this engaging kayak tour to the Mokulua Islands for $219 per person. The 5-hour experience is led by an experienced guide and includes kayaking equipment, a permit for Moku Nui, lunch, and shave ice afterward. While the tour does not include transportation to the meeting point or parking, it offers a well-rounded adventure suited for those comfortable with moderate activity and eager to explore Hawaii’s coastal wildlife and scenery.

Designed for individuals over 13 years of age and those with a moderate fitness level, this tour emphasizes nature, local wildlife, and island exploration. The guided commentary enriches the experience with insights into marine life and local history. It’s a great choice for adventure lovers who enjoy outdoor activity combined with relaxing beach time and tasty treats.

Key Points

Guided kayak tour from Kailua to the Mokulua Islands lasting 5 hours
Includes kayaking equipment, guide, permit for Moku Nui, lunch, and shave ice
Wildlife sightings include sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, tropical fish, and sea birds
Explore Moku Nui: hike to Queens Bath, discover tide pools, and enjoy the beach
Educational commentary on marine life and local history from guides
Meet at Kailua Storefront one hour before start; no hotel transfers

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at Kailua Storefront and Check-in Process

The tour begins at the Kailua Storefront, where participants check in one hour before the scheduled start time. This check-in process ensures everyone receives instructions on parking, kayaking safety, and area significance. It’s straightforward, but travelers should plan their arrival since hotel pickup and transportation are not included.

Loading kayaks onto your vehicle uses foam pads and straps provided by the tour operator. After unloading at Kailua Beach Park, the group meets the guide in the water for safety briefings and initial paddling instructions.

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Paddling from Kailua Bay to the Mokulua Islands

The guided paddle takes you across Kailua Bay, with the Mokulua Islands growing larger on the horizon. The journey offers stunning views of the Koolau mountain range and ocean scenery, making it a visually rewarding experience. The guides share insights about the marine environment and local geography during the paddle, which is suitable for those comfortable with moderate physical activity.

Watch for sea turtles, which are often visible along the route, and listen to stories about the islands’ cultural importance. The water remains calm and clear, ideal for spotting tropical fish and sea birds above the islands.

Exploring Moku Nui’s Unique Tide Pools and Fluffy Chicks

Arriving at Moku Nui, the only accessible island in the Mokulua group, visitors will leave their kayaks and explore on foot. The trail to Queens Bath is a highlight, offering a chance to see natural tide pools and rock formations. Springtime visitors can expect to see baby chicks among the nesting areas—a delightful sight for bird lovers.

The island is a bird sanctuary, so respect for wildlife and staying on designated paths is emphasized. Visitors are free to relax on the beach, take photographs, or discover tide pools filled with marine life.

Return Paddle and Scenic Views of the Koolau Mountains

After exploring Moku Nui, participants reboard their kayaks for the return trip. The guide leads the group back toward Kailua, allowing for more wildlife sightings and scenic views of the mountain range and coastal landscape. The paddle back is generally calm, offering a relaxed pace with opportunities for photos and reflection on the surrounding beauty.

Throughout the return, guides continue to share stories about the local environment and history of Kailua’s waters, enriching the experience further.

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Post-Paddle Lunch and Refreshing Shave Ice

Once back on land at Kailua Beach Park, the tour concludes with a delicious lunch. The meal is included in the package, providing a satisfying break after the activity. Following the meal, visitors enjoy refreshing shave ice, which helps cool down after the paddling adventure.

The lunch and shave ice are perfect for re-energizing and relaxing amid the scenic beach surroundings. This combination of outdoor activity and a tasty treat rounds out the day well.

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Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

This kayak tour includes all necessary kayaking equipment, a guiding service, a permit for Moku Nui, lunch, and shave ice. It does not include hotel pickup, drop-off, transportation of equipment to the launch point, drinks, or parking. Participants should plan accordingly and arrive at the Kailua Storefront on time.

Booking options allow for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for changing plans. The tour typically operates in the morning, making it a good option for those who prefer to start their day with outdoor activity.

Physical Requirements and Suitability

While the tour is accessible to most with a moderate fitness level, it is not suitable for children under 13. Participants should be comfortable with kayaking and light hiking on the island trails. The activity emphasizes respect for wildlife and staying on marked paths, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts who enjoy active outdoor experiences.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear, camera, snacks, water, and biodegradable sunscreen. Quick-dry clothing is recommended for comfort during the kayaking portion.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out from Others

Compared to similar offerings, this tour combines guided kayaking with a focused exploration of Moku Nui—the only accessible island in the group. The inclusion of lunch and shave ice adds a relaxing element that other tours may not offer. The wildlife viewing opportunities and educational commentary about marine life and local history** are additional perks.

It’s particularly appealing for those who appreciate stunning coastal scenery and want a balanced mix of adventure and leisure. However, the absence of transportation may require some extra planning from participants, especially if staying far from Kailua.

Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour with Lunch: Is It Worth It?

This 5-hour kayak adventure offers a complete experience of Kailua’s waters, combining active paddling, nature discovery, and delicious food. The guides are knowledgeable, and the wildlife sightings are plentiful, making it an engaging outing for nature lovers. The scenic views of the Koolau mountains and the tide pools at Moku Nui provide photo-worthy moments.

While the tour involves some physical activity and requires arriving on time at the meeting point, the included lunch and shave ice add significant value. It suits those who enjoy outdoor exploration and are comfortable with moderate activity levels. For visitors looking for a well-rounded, guided coastal adventure with a focus on nature and wildlife, this tour delivers a satisfying experience.

Ready to Book?

Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour with Lunch

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the meeting point included? No, participants need to make their own arrangements to arrive at the Kailua Storefront one hour before the tour.

What should I bring on the tour? Bring comfortable shoes, hat, swimwear, camera, snacks, water, biodegradable sunscreen, and quick-dry clothing.

Can children under 13 participate? No, this tour is not suitable for children under 13 years old.

What wildlife can I expect to see? Expect sightings of sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, tropical fish, and various sea birds.

What is included in the tour? The tour includes kayaking equipment, guide, permit for Moku Nui, lunch, and shave ice.

Is the tour suitable for beginners? The tour is designed for those with a moderate fitness level and some kayaking experience. Beginners comfortable with paddling should find it manageable.

How flexible is the booking? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve now with pay later options.

What if I want to explore other islands or activities? The tour focuses specifically on the Mokulua Islands with guided kayaking and exploration, but similar experiences are available and linked in the provider’s offerings.

Does the tour operate in the afternoon? The typical schedule is in the morning, but specific times should be checked when booking.

What makes this tour different from self-guided options? The guided commentary and included permit enhance the experience with local insights and safety support that self-guided trips lack.

This Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour with Lunch offers a well-balanced outdoor adventure that combines wildlife viewing, island exploration, and delicious food for a memorable day on the water. Perfect for active visitors eager to enjoy Hawaii’s coastal beauty with some expert guidance.