Kailua’s best tours deliver memorable experiences along Oahu’s windward coast. I’m particularly fond of the East Oahu Shoreline Drive audio tour, which efficiently covers 20 miles of stunning coastline – perfect for independent travelers who appreciate good narration and the freedom to explore at their own pace.
The Mokulua Islands kayak tour stands out as my top pick, combining exercise with wildlife viewing and access to a fascinating bird sanctuary. For those wanting variety, the e-bike and kayak combo tour smartly pairs two great ways to experience Kailua’s natural beauty. The guided Popoia Island and Kailua Bay kayak tours offer intimate encounters with local marine life and exceptional photo opportunities.
Let’s explore these standout tours in detail…
Key Points
- The East Oahu Shoreline Drive audio tour offers a customizable and insightful exploration of the region’s stunning coastline, landmarks, and natural history.
- The Kailua Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour provides an opportunity to paddle through Kailua Bay and observe wildlife, with lunch and equipment included.
- The Kailua Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour combines a scenic e-bike ride with a 1.5-hour kayaking adventure around the Mokulua Islands.
- The Kailua Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour caters to beginners and families, offering a range of activities and amenities.
- The Kailua Guided Kayaking Tour with Lunch offers a small-group, personalized experience with kayak surfing, snorkeling, and marine conservation efforts.
East Oahu Shoreline Drive: Audio Tour Guide
What better way to experience the stunning East Oahu coastline than with a self-guided audio tour? The “East Oahu Shoreline Drive: Audio Tour Guide” leads you on a captivating journey along the region’s breathtaking cliffs, beaches, and historic landmarks.
Using your smartphone, you’ll enjoy a narrated tour that brings the landscape to life with fascinating insights into the area’s geology, culture, and wildlife.
The tour covers approximately 20 miles, allowing you to explore Kailua’s picturesque coastal communities at your own pace. Stops include the iconic Lanikai Pillboxes, the serene Kailua Beach Park, and the lush Nuuanu Pali Lookout.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the Hawaiian legends and natural wonders that define this special corner of the island. With the freedom to start, stop, and rewind the tour as needed, you can customize your experience to suit your interests and schedule.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local seeking a new perspective, this audio guide offers an enriching and convenient way to discover the beauty of East Oahu.
Read our full review: East Oahu Shoreline Drive: Audio Tour Guide Review
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Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour With Lunch and Shave Ice
Although located just offshore from the idyllic town of Kailua, the Mokulua Islands offer a true sense of adventure and natural wonder.
The Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour with Lunch provides an opportunity to explore this stunning natural environment up close. Priced at $219 per person, the 5-hour tour allows participants to paddle through Kailua Bay, spotting local wildlife like sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals.
Upon reaching Moku Nui, a designated bird sanctuary, guests can hike to Queen’s Bath, discover tide pools, and relax on the beach. Lunch and shave ice are included, as are all necessary equipment and transportation.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a flexible and hassle-free way to experience Oahu’s natural beauty.
Though not recommended for children under 13 or those with low fitness levels, the Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour earns a perfect 5/5 rating from previous guests.
Read our full review: Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour With Lunch and Shave Ice Review
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Kailua, Oahu: Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands
Exploring the stunning Mokulua Islands off the coast of Kailua just got more adventurous. The Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands offers an exhilarating way to experience this natural wonder. Priced at SEK 3,142 per person, the 5-hour tour is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring a small-group experience.
After a safety briefing, travelers will embark on a 10-minute e-bike ride through Kailua Town before launching their kayaks to the Mokulua Islets Seabird Sanctuary. Over 1.5 hours, they’ll paddle around the islands, spotting diverse wildlife like sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, and tropical fish.
A picnic lunch on Moku Nui island provides a peaceful respite before the return journey. Throughout the tour, participants can explore hidden tide pools and the islands’ backsides, weather permitting.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a flexible and eco-friendly way to discover the beauty of Kailua.
Read our full review: Kailua, Oahu: Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands Review
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Kailua, Oahu: Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour
Paddlers can embark on an enchanting Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour in the picturesque town of Kailua, Oahu. Priced from $169 per person, this 3-8.5 hour tour takes adventurers to the tranquil Popoia Island, also known as Flat Island, just a half-hour paddle away.
Along the way, guests can spot sea turtles and colorful fish in the crystal clear waters of Kailua Bay. Suitable for beginners and children 8+, the tour is led by experienced local guides who share insider knowledge.
After the excursion, participants can enjoy authentic tacos and shave ice. The full-day option even includes rental gear for beach activities like snorkeling, boogie boarding, and relaxing under umbrellas.
Kayak equipment, transportation, and team assistance are provided. With flexible beach experiences and add-ons like e-bike rentals, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Kailua’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Kailua, Oahu: Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour Review
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Kailua: Guided Kayaking Tour With Lunch, Snacks, and Drinks
This 5-hour guided kayaking tour in Kailua, Hawaii, offers a captivating opportunity to take in the island’s natural wonders. Priced from $269.30 per person, the small-group experience is limited to just 5 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure.
Led by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, the tour highlights include kayak surfing, snorkeling at turtle feeding grounds, and exploring coral reefs and tide pools. Participants will also have the chance to collect marine plastics and learn about local wildlife conservation efforts.
Included in the tour are a fresh turkey sandwich lunch, snacks, and drinks, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request. Kayaks, paddles, life jackets, snorkeling gear, and a dry bag are also provided.
However, this tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or children under 12. The tour boasts an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 39 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery.
Read our full review: Kailua: Guided Kayaking Tour With Lunch, Snacks, and Drinks Review
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Sum Up
The Kailua area offers a variety of excellent guided tours to explore its beautiful natural surroundings. From kayaking to the Mokulua Islands to e-bike and kayak adventures, there are options to suit different interests and activity levels. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing excursion or an active outdoor experience, Kailua has some of the best tours to discover the area’s stunning shorelines and islands.