Kailua’s crystal-clear waters and gentle winds create perfect paddling conditions. The standout experience is the 5-hour guided kayak tour, which smartly combines kayak surfing and turtle spotting with a visit to the striking Mokulua Islands.
I love how this tour packs in multiple activities while maintaining a relaxed pace.
For those seeking flexibility, the Popoia Island trip (3-8.5 hours) proves ideal for newcomers to paddling. My favorite option combines modern and traditional transport – an electric bike ride followed by a 1.5-hour kayak journey to the Mokuluas.
Each tour includes quality gear and satisfying local food.
Let’s explore the top-rated kayak tours in Kailua.
Key Points
- Small-group guided kayaking tours in Kailua offer a range of activities, including kayak surfing, snorkeling, and exploring coral reefs and hidden tide pools.
- Kayak tours to the Mokulua Islands provide opportunities to encounter local wildlife, such as sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, and tropical fish, as well as hiking and relaxation on the beach.
- Popoia Island and Kailua Bay guided kayak tours are suitable for beginners and children, with options to extend the experience with beach gear rentals and authentic local cuisine.
- Guided e-bike and kayak tours to the Mokulua Islands combine electric bike rides and kayaking, offering a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the local marine life and scenery.
- Many of the Kailua kayaking experiences receive high overall ratings from reviewers, indicating excellent customer satisfaction with the tours.
Kailua: Guided Kayaking Tour With Lunch, Snacks, and Drinks
Although Kailua is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, the guided kayaking tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the area’s stunning natural wonders from a different perspective.
Lasting 5 hours, the small-group tour, limited to just 5 participants, provides an eco-friendly way to experience the breathtaking Kailua coastline. Led by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, the tour includes highlights such as kayak surfing, snorkeling at turtle feeding grounds, and exploring vibrant coral reefs.
Travelers will also discover hidden tide pools and secluded coves while learning about local wildlife and environmental protection efforts. Lunch, featuring fresh turkey sandwiches, snacks, and drinks, is included, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request.
Certified lifeguards ensure the safety of participants, who’ll be outfitted with life jackets, kayaks, paddles, dry bags, and snorkeling gear.
With a high overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 39 reviews, this guided kayaking tour is a must-do activity for visitors to Kailua.
Read our full review: Kailua: Guided Kayaking Tour With Lunch, Snacks, and Drinks Review
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Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour With Lunch
Kailua’s stunning coastline stretches beyond its renowned white-sand beaches, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the area’s natural wonders from a new vantage point – the Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour.
This five-hour excursion takes adventurers on a guided paddling journey to the Mokulua Islands, a bird sanctuary teeming with hidden tide pools and hiking trails. Along the way, participants can expect to encounter local marine life, including sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, tropical fish, and seabirds.
After exploring Moku Nui, guests can relax on the beach, hike to the Queen’s Bath, and take in the breathtaking views of the Koolau mountain range.
The tour includes a delicious lunch and refreshing shave ice, as well as the use of all necessary kayaking equipment and a permit for accessing the protected islands.
With its scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and excellent service, the Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour offers a truly memorable Kailua experience.
Read our full review: Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour With Lunch Review
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Kailua, Oahu: Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour
Nestled along Kailua’s stunning coastline, the Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the area’s natural wonders from a unique perspective. Priced from $169 per person, this 3- to 8.5-hour adventure takes participants on a half-hour paddle to the secluded Popoia Island, where they can spot sea turtles and vibrant marine life.
Suitable for beginners and children 8 and up, the tour is led by experienced guides who provide local knowledge and assistance with kayak handling.
For those seeking a full-day experience, the tour’s extended option includes beach gear rentals, allowing visitors to enjoy activities like boogie boarding, snorkeling, and relaxation at Kailua’s stunning beaches. Refueling is made easy with the inclusion of authentic tacos and refreshing shave ice.
With a convenient meeting point and the option to reserve now and pay later, this guided kayak tour provides an immersive and memorable way to discover the beauty of Kailua.
Read our full review: Kailua, Oahu: Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour Review
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Kailua, Oahu: Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands
Departing from the Active Oahu tour hub in Kailua, the Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands takes adventurers on an exhilarating half-day journey through Oahu’s picturesque landscapes.
The tour begins with a safety briefing and a 10-minute electric bike ride through Kailua Town before participants set out to explore the Mokulua Islets Seabird Sanctuary by kayak. During the 1.5-hour paddle, guests have the chance to spot sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, tropical fish, and a variety of seabirds.
After a 30-minute picnic lunch on Moku Nui island, the tour continues with another 1.5-hour kayak journey back, allowing participants to absorb the stunning scenery and wildlife.
Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide provides cultural and historical insights. Priced from €270.30 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 8) includes all necessary equipment and permits, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an adventurous and eco-friendly exploration of Kailua’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Kailua, Oahu: Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands Review
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Recap
Kailua offers a diverse range of exceptional canoe and kayak experiences. From guided tours to the Mokulua Islands and Popoia Island to e-bike and kayak adventures, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Kailua’s coastal landscapes. With options for various group sizes, activities, and amenities, there’s an excursion to suit every visitor’s interests and preferences.