Self-Guided Kayaking Tour in Kailua Bay and Popoia Island
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Meet in Kailua at the Active Oahu storefront where friendly staff will help you load your kayaks and gear. From there drive a few minutes to Kailua Beach and park at the end of the first lot to launch near the bridge.
A short section of water will be shallow before you continue walking across the beach to the ocean. Kayaking out to Popoia island is an easy and enjoyable experience and takes around 15 minutes to arrive at the small sandy area. For the short walk around the island be sure to bring some shoes or sandals to protect your feet from the sharp lava rock.
The island is a bird sanctuary to many shearwaters that you will be able to see. When you are done exploring Kailua Bay meet us back at the storefront where we will help you unload. If you finish the route early you can relax on the beach with the included beach chairs and umbrellas.
Available options
Self-Guided Kayaking Tour in Kailua Bay and Popoia Island
What's included
Safety equipment
Snorkel gear
Kayaks
Beach Chairs
Permits for landing on the island
Help loading and unloading at the storefront
Dry bags
Umbrella
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your tour here at the Active Oahu Tours Storefront. A 4 door vehicle or truck is required to transport you kayaks. The team will be there to help you load your gear onto your vehicle. Receive helpful and important information before you embark on your kayak journey. Feel free to check out the shop and see what else might interest you during your stay in Hawaii.
2
Stop 2
Launch your kayaks from Kailua Beach. Feel free to spend a few moments enjoying the beach planning your Kayak route.
3
Admire the crystal-clear water while kayaking through Kailua Bay. Enjoy a short kayak trip, about a 20 minute paddle to Popoia Island and walk around it and discover it on foot. Experience kayaking at your own pace. On this trip you will be paddling through Hawaiian green sea turtle habitat and you will be protected by a barrier reef that extends across the entire paddling route.
4
On the Popoia Island you will see short tail shearwater Hawaiian seabirds swooping the shoreline. The island is a nesting ground and seabird sanctuary. Take a walk around the island and swim in the queens bath which is a 8 foot deep tide pool. Take a walk around the island on the rugged terrain of the small coral island.
5
Stop 5
Relax on the beach at Kailua Beach park with the included beach chairs and umbrella or keep paddling around Kailua Bay.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Arrive at the Active Oahu storefront 134B Hamakua Dr. Kailua, HI 96734 and proceed through the gate and park in an open bay.
About Oahu
Oahu, known as 'The Gathering Place,' is the third-largest of the Hawaiian Islands and home to the state capital, Honolulu. It offers a unique blend of urban attractions, historical sites, and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a diverse Hawaiian experience.
Top Attractions
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its golden sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. It's perfect for swimming, surfing, and people-watching.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Pearl Harbor is a historic site that commemorates the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II. Visitors can tour the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, and the Pacific Aviation Museum.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to $2.00 for the USS Arizona Memorial program
Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head is an iconic volcanic crater offering stunning views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. The hike to the summit is moderate and rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views.
Nature
2-3 hours
$5 per vehicle, $1 per pedestrian
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A Hawaiian raw fish salad typically made with ahi tuna or salmon, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with cooked fish or tofu for a vegetarian/vegan option.
Loco Moco
A hearty dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Dinner
Can be made with a vegetarian patty or tofu.
Shave Ice
Finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and often served with a scoop of ice cream or sweetened condensed milk.
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Surfing
ATV tours
Zip-lining
Beach lounging
Spas
Sunset cruises
Luaus
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the peak tourist season due to the winter whale-watching season and the Christmas holidays. The weather is pleasant, with occasional rain showers.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-10:00 (Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Oahu is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take basic safety precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
- • Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach
- • Be aware of strong currents and rip tides when swimming
Getting there
By air
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport • 5 km from Honolulu
By bus
Honolulu, Waikiki
Getting around
Public transport
The Bus system is affordable and covers most of Oahu, including major attractions and neighborhoods. Fares are $3 per ride, and day passes are available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Waikiki
Honolulu
North Shore
Day trips
Kualoa Ranch
30 miles from Honolulu • Full day
Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000-acre nature reserve and working cattle ranch offering a variety of outdoor activities, including ATV tours, horseback riding, and movie site tours.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
10 miles from Honolulu • Half day
Hanauma Bay is a marine life conservation district offering excellent snorkeling opportunities in a protected, pristine environment. The bay is home to a diverse range of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and dolphins.
Kualoa Ranch
30 miles from Honolulu • Full day
Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000-acre nature reserve and working cattle ranch offering a variety of outdoor activities, including ATV tours, horseback riding, and movie site tours.
Festivals
Honolulu Festival • March
Merrie Monarch Festival • April
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Rent a car for at least a few days to explore the island's diverse landscapes and attractions
- Try local dishes like poke, loco moco, and shave ice for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience
- Pack light, breathable clothing and reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the environment
- Learn a few basic Hawaiian phrases to show respect for the local culture and enhance your travel experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
