Kayaking to Flat Island
Explore this seabird sanctuary in kailua
should i kayak to flat island?
Well duh! We have lots of reasons why you should rent a kayak or book a guided tour of Popo’ia
Popoi’a or “Flat Island” is a beginner friendly kayaking destination on the Eastern side of oahu
This is considered the easiest island to kayak to in Kailua. Beginners and those with children should consider this their 1st choice.
Flat Island is a ¼ mile offshore from Kailua Beach Park. it takes about 20-30 minutes to kayak here.
Rent a kayak for a half day and you will have plenty of time to paddle here, hike around the island, explore the tide pools and have a snack.
What to do on flat island?
Explore the tide pools -kid’s favorite!
Flat Island has two major tide pools, large enough to wade in. They host a variety of sea creatures, including fish, octopuses, eels, rock crabs, and much more. Take caution, as the coral is sharp. Wear reef shoes and tread carefully. Waves from the ocean may splash over or rush through openings, so always watch the conditions before choosing to enter.
Hike around the exterior path
The interior of the island is sectioned off for nesting sea-birds. A hiking trail allows you to circumnavigate the island in about 20-30 minutes. Incredable 360 views of the Ko’olau mountains, Mokulua Islands, Lanika and Kailua Beach, make the entire island a scenic viewpoint.
Birding:
Flat Island is a seabird nesting sanctuary and home to the wedge-tailed shearwater. Birders may also capture views of blue-footed boobies, noddys, terns, and frigate birds.
Crabbing:
Don't eat the crabs! But you will certainly get to see the hundreds of a’ama crabs scampering across the rocks. These crustations must shed their shell to grow so if the crab doesn't run away, it may have already left!
Turtle spotting:
Hawaiian green sea turtles or Honu love Flat Island! They swim around eating the seaweed or limu off of the coral heads. You may see a lot as populations have been rebounding since they are no longer on the menu, recently taking them off the endangered species list! Go Honu!
Enjoy the Wildlife
Flat Island Kayaking FAQ
Is kayaking to Flat Island Safe?Yes, this is the most protected island in Kailua Bay! With average surf and trade winds under 15 mph, this is an easy paddling destination. Stay on the inland side to avoid open ocean surf. There are two lifeguard stands on the beach directly across from the launch. That being said: All kayakers should know how to swim and feel comfortable pulling themselves up on the kayak. If you are at all hesitant, hire a guide!
Does Flat Island Require a Permit?Yes, this island is a seabird sanctuary managed by the state DLNR. They require a $3 landing permit that comes included with our self-guided or guided tours.
Go to our kailua kayak rental page for more info
Is kayaking to Flat Island worth it?I thought we talked about this. Yes! With panoramic views, hidden tide pools, seabirds, and marine life, it’s totally worth the paddle. It’s also the most accessable since it’s close to shore.