Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour With Lunch And Shave Ice

Nestled in the serene Kailua Bay, the Mokulua Islands offer a captivating natural playground for adventurous souls. The Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour provides a unique chance to explore this stunning archipelago, immersing you in its rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. From paddling across the crystal-clear waters to discovering hidden tide pools and savoring a refreshing lunch, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to uncover more of the islands’ secrets.

Key Points

A 5-hour kayak tour from Kailua Bay to the Mokulua Islands, including a visit to the Moku Nui bird sanctuary and opportunities to see wildlife.
The tour provides a guided, safe journey across calm waters and allows for exploration of the islands, with a hike to Queen’s Bath and tide pools.
Participants can observe sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, and tropical fish in their natural habitat during the tour.
The tour includes a provided lunch with locally-sourced ingredients and a refreshing Hawaiian shave ice treat.
Necessary equipment, such as high-quality kayaks, life jackets, and permits, are included in the tour, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Tour Overview

This 5-hour kayak tour takes participants from Kailua Bay to the Mokulua Islands, where they can explore the bird sanctuary of Moku Nui, encounter local wildlife like sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals, and hike the trail to Queens Bath and tide pools.

Along the way, adventurers will paddle through the bay, get a chance to spot tropical fish, and enjoy a lunch and shave ice after the tour.

The tour includes all necessary kayaking equipment, a permit to access Moku Nui, and transportation straps and foam pads.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 13 or those with low fitness levels, and participants are expected to stay on the trail and respect the local wildlife.

Paddling to the Islands

The kayak tour begins with paddlers departing from Kailua Bay, navigating through the calm waters towards the distant islands.

As they glide across the turquoise waves, they’ll take in the breathtaking views of the Mokulua Islands, also known as the ‘Mokes.’

The guides provide instructions and support, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

Paddlers may spot local wildlife, such as sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals, as they make their way to the smaller of the two islands, Moku Nui.

The smooth, rhythmic strokes of the paddles create a peaceful and immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with the natural beauty of this island paradise.

Exploring Moku Nui

Once they’ve reached the island of Moku Nui, visitors can explore the trail that leads to the renowned Queens Bath, where they can discover the area’s abundant tide pools teeming with marine life.

This serene bird sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to observe the local wildlife up close, including sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, and a variety of tropical fish.

The hike to Queens Bath is a highlight of the tour, providing:

Breathtaking views of the surrounding turquoise waters and volcanic rock formations.
A chance to learn about the island’s delicate ecosystem and the importance of preserving its natural beauty.
A refreshing dip in the tide pools, where visitors can cool off and take in the tranquil atmosphere.

Encountering Local Wildlife

On the Mokulua Islands, visitors can encounter a variety of local wildlife, including sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, and a diverse array of tropical fish. These majestic creatures can often be spotted basking on the islands’ shores or swimming in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the sanctuary.

Guests are encouraged to observe the animals from a respectful distance, as the islands are a protected habitat for these unique species. With luck, kayakers may even catch a glimpse of a Hawaiian monk seal, one of the rarest marine mammals in the world.

The opportunity to witness these incredible animals in their natural environment is a truly memorable experience for anyone participating in this Kailua adventure.

Hiking and Tide Pools

After exploring the diverse wildlife on the Mokulua Islands, guests can venture onto the trail and discover the natural wonder of Queens Bath and the surrounding tide pools on Moku Nui.

The hike offers a unique opportunity to:

Admire the stunning geological formations and crystal-clear waters of Queens Bath.
Observe the vibrant marine life thriving in the tide pools, including crabs, sea anemones, and small fish.
Explore the lush, verdant landscape and take in panoramic views of the surrounding islands and turquoise waters.

These remarkable natural features provide a peaceful and enriching experience for visitors, allowing them to connect with the island’s captivating ecosystem and appreciate its raw, untamed beauty.

Lunch and Shave Ice

Following the tour of the Mokulua Islands and exploration of the natural wonders, guests are treated to a well-deserved lunch and refreshing shave ice. The tour company thoughtfully includes these post-adventure delights, allowing participants to savor the flavors of the local cuisine and cool down with a classic Hawaiian treat.

The lunch, served on the beach or in a scenic picnic area, features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that showcase the vibrant flavors of Kailua. After refueling, guests indulge in the iconic shave ice, a Hawaiian specialty that provides a sweet and icy reprieve from the tropical sun.

This leisurely conclusion to the excursion leaves visitors feeling satisfied and rejuvenated.

Necessary Equipment

The tour provides all the necessary kayaking equipment, including sturdy, high-quality kayaks, life jackets, and paddles, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Participants don’t need to bring any specialized gear, as the tour outfitters have thought of everything to make the adventure as seamless as possible.

The tour also includes:

Straps and foam pads for transporting the kayaks to and from the launch site.
A permit to access the Moku Nui bird sanctuary, allowing guests to fully explore the island.
Lunch and shave ice, providing a refreshing break during the excursion.

With all the essentials covered, participants can focus on the stunning scenery and wildlife-viewing opportunities that make this Mokulua Islands kayak tour so memorable.

Important Considerations

Although the tour is suitable for most adults, it may not be appropriate for children under 13 or individuals with a low fitness level. Participants should be able to comfortably paddle a kayak for an extended period and handle moderate hiking on the island. Those with concerns about their abilities should consult with the tour operator before booking to ensure the experience aligns with their capabilities.

It’s also important to respect the local wildlife and stay on the designated trails. The Mokulua Islands are a protected bird sanctuary, so visitors must be mindful of their impact and avoid disturbing the natural environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Day to Take This Tour?

The best time of day to take this tour is typically mid-morning. This allows participants to enjoy the cooler temperatures, calmer waters, and fewer crowds before the afternoon heat sets in. An early start also maximizes the wildlife-viewing opportunities.

Are There Any Age or Weight Restrictions for the Kayaks?

The tour is not suitable for children under 13 and those with low fitness levels. There are no strict weight limits, but guests should be able to sit comfortably in the kayaks. Participants will need to exercise caution when entering and exiting the vessels.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package includes lunch and shave ice, so outside items are not permitted. This helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Is It Possible to Take Photos or Videos During the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the tour, as long as they don’t disturb the wildlife or block the path for others. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions.

Is There Any Flexibility in the Tour Itinerary or Duration?

The tour itinerary and duration typically can’t be adjusted, as the activities are scheduled to make the most of the 5-hour experience. However, the guide may have some flexibility to accommodate special requests from participants if feasible.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby