Kayak to Kaneohe Bay Sandbar
rentals for sandbar starting at $79
Kayak to Kaneohe Sandbar, also known as Ahu O Laka, and experience one of Oahu's most unique ocean adventures. Paddle across the protected waters of Kaneohe Bay, explore the shallow turquoise water, snorkel, and enjoy spectacular views of the Koʻolau Mountains.
From Volcano to Lagoon, Kāneʻohe Bay sits inside the remains of an ancient caldera, the collapsed crater of the Koʻolau volcano, which last erupted roughly 2.6 million years ago. After the volcano went dormant, wind, rain, and waves slowly carved the dramatic cliffs you see today (the Koʻolau Range), while the ocean flooded the caldera floor to create the bay. This is the only true barrier reef in the main Hawaiian Islands and one of very few in the entire United States. Over millennia, that sand accumulated into the formation we know today as the Kaneohe Bay Sandbar (Ahu o Laka), a three-mile-long sand ridge that rises and falls with the tides.
SELF GUIDED KAYAK RENTAL to Kaneohe Bay Sandbar
Kaneohe | Oahu | Hawaii
Itinerary
Book online - Check for live availability on our calendar.
Check in at Kailua Beach Adventures- We are located at 130 Kailua Road. If booking to Kaneohe make sure to arrive before 12pm
Sign a waiver and watch safety video- Quick liability waiver and watching of safety video required for all participants
Get your Equipment- We'll provide all core equipment: Car straps and pads, paddles, life jackets and kayaks. Accessories can be added on ala carte as well ex. Snorkeling gear, dry bags and more!
Drive to Heeia Boat Harbor- ~30 minutes through Kaneohe (we'll provide parking instructions)
Launch and explore - Paddle 1.25 mile to the sandbar
Return the gear - Bring the kayak back to our shop by closing time, overnight rentals are available as well just let shop staff know you have a safe place to store.
Where to begin
To visit the Kaneohe bay Sandbar, Kayakers must check in before 12PM
Need to know:
an Anchor is required for paddling to the sand bar, if you do not have your own you need to rent; we have for $15 (good for 2 kayaks)
No Amenities are our on the island so make sure you pack out what you brought over. Mahalo!
Planning to explore Kaneohe Sandbar on your own? Kailua Beach Adventures offers self-guided kayak rentals for exploring Kaneohe Bay. Choose the kayak that's right for your group and add the equipment you need for your adventure.
For Kaneohe Bay Sandbar trips, an anchor is required. Snorkel gear, dry bags and other accessories are also available.Planning to explore Kaneohe Sandbar on your own? Kailua Beach Adventures offers self-guided kayak rentals for exploring Kaneohe Bay. Choose the kayak that's right for your group and add the equipment you need for your adventure.
For Kaneohe Bay Sandbar trips, an anchor is required. Snorkel gear, dry bags and other accessories are also available.
FAQ for THE SANDBAR (THE SUNKEN ISLAND OR DISAPPEARING ISLANd)
Is Kaneohe Sandbar Good for Beginners?
Kaneohe Bay is a popular kayaking destination because its protective reef can reduce wave action compared with more exposed coastal areas. However, kayaking is still an ocean activity. Wind, tide, weather and currents can affect conditions, and paddlers should choose an adventure appropriate for their swimming ability and physical fitness.
When Is the Best Time to Kayak to Kaneohe Sandbar?
The Sandbar changes with the tide, so conditions can look very different throughout the day.
KBA currently requires guests traveling outside Kailua Bay toward Kaneohe Bay Sandbar or Kualoa to check in before 12 PM.
Kaneohe Sandbar and Marine Life
Kaneohe Bay is an important marine environment and home to Hawaiian green sea turtles, reef fish and other marine life.
When kayaking and snorkeling:
Keep your distance from turtles and other wildlife.
Never touch or chase marine animals.
Do not stand on or damage coral.
Avoid disturbing reef habitat.
Take all trash with you.
Use reef-safe sunscreen.
Your adventure should leave the bay just as beautiful for the next visitor
Do you need a permit to visit Kaneohe Sandbar?
No permit is required to visit Kaneohe Sandbar.
How far is Kaneohe Sandbar by kayak?
The Sandbar is approximately a mile from the Heʻeia Pier launch area. Actual paddling distance and time can vary depending on the route and conditions.
Do you need an anchor for Kaneohe Sandbar?
Yes. KBA currently requires an anchor for kayak trips going to the Kaneohe Bay Sandbar.
Can beginners kayak to Kaneohe Sandbar?
Kaneohe Bay can offer relatively protected paddling conditions, but conditions vary. Kayakers should be comfortable swimming and physically capable of paddling the required distance.
Is Kaneohe Sandbar open every day?
Access and kayaking conditions can vary by day, weather, tides and applicable restrictions. KBA has additional restrictions for Sunday kayaking, including an earlier check-in requirement for trips outside Kailua Bay.