Kailua on Oahu isn’t just about its stunning beaches—it’s a prime spot for canoe and kayak adventures that bring you face-to-face with Hawaii’s marine life and scenic coastlines. Unlike crowded tourist spots, Kailua offers a relaxed vibe where you can paddle past seabird sanctuaries, turtle feeding grounds, and even hop between tiny offshore islands. The combination of calm waters, breathtaking views, and knowledgeable guides makes it a perfect setting for both beginners and seasoned paddlers. Plus, many tours include eco-friendly elements, like removing marine debris, so you can feel good about your trip.
If you’re eager for a guided adventure, Kailua’s options range from half-day explorations to full-day excursions, often paired with bikes or snorkeling. Whether you want to surf kayak, visit wildlife sanctuaries, or explore tide pools, Kailua’s tours are designed to give you an authentic taste of Hawaiian coastal life. For a detailed look at the best options, here’s a quick overview before diving into each experience.
Quick Overview
We’ve rounded up three top tours that stand out for their unique offerings and reviews. For detailed descriptions, visit Kailua: Mokulua Islands Guided Kayak and Snorkeling Tour, Kailua, Oahu: Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour, and Kailua, Oahu: Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands. Now, let’s explore each of these top-rated adventures in detail.
1. Kailua: Mokulua Islands Guided Kayak and Snorkeling Tour
This tour offers an eco-friendly paddle from Kailua Beach to the lush Mokulua wildlife sanctuaries, combined with snorkeling and a picnic lunch. For around $269 per person, you get a full 5-hour experience that’s packed with variety. It stands out because of its focus on wildlife viewing, including seals and seabirds, along with options like kayak surfing—feel the thrill of catching Hawaiian waves.
Guides share their 25 years of birding experience, making wildlife encounters particularly rewarding. The trip includes a visit to Queen’s Bath, a natural tide pool, and a snorkel stop at Kailua’s turtle feeding grounds, where colorful fish and gentle turtles are common sights. The itinerary balances paddling with opportunities to walk along scenic spots, like the Mokulua Seabird Sanctuary, and enjoy a picnic on the islands. The tour’s reviews highlight how fun, beautiful, and physically engaging it is, with many guests remarking, “It was soooooo fun!!” and appreciating guides who are “knowledgeable and friendly.”
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a full day of island hopping, wildlife, and snorkeling, with the bonus of helping preserve the environment.
2. Kailua, Oahu: Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour
With a more flexible time frame, this guided kayak tour priced at $169 offers a great mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s ideal if you want to spend a few hours exploring Kailua Bay and visiting a small offshore island, Popoia. The trip includes help with kayak loading and unloading, making it accessible even if you’re new to paddling.
What makes this tour stand out is its opportunity to spot sea turtles and colorful fish during a short paddle—roughly half an hour to the island. It’s a low-pressure way to enjoy the water while getting insights from an experienced guide. Plus, after your paddle, you can indulge in authentic tacos with fresh salsa and shave ice, a refreshing treat after your adventure. The option to upgrade to a full day with rental gear opens up additional exploration on Kailua’s beaches, perfect for those who want to extend their time on the water or simply relax more.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers looking for a shorter, gentle paddle with added food treats and optional gear rental to maximize their day.
3. Kailua, Oahu: Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands
For around $285, this combo tour offers a full 5-hour experience that combines electric biking through Kailua Town with a guided kayak trip to the Mokulua Islands. It’s ideal for those who want a multi-activity day, blending land and sea exploration. The e-bike ride, lasting about 10 minutes, takes you through scenic neighborhoods to Kailua Beach Park, where your kayaking adventure begins.
What makes this tour different is the opportunity to explore hidden tide pools and venture around the back of the islands with your guide, learning about local wildlife and history. After paddling, you’ll enjoy a fresh lunch on the beach, adding a satisfying conclusion to your day. Guests praise the guided storytelling, which enhances the experience with local insights. The tour’s reviews note how well-organized and scenic it is, perfect for those with a moderate fitness level who enjoy diverse activities.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for active travelers who want a blend of biking and kayaking, with plenty of opportunities to learn about and enjoy the islands.
How to Choose
When selecting a kayak or canoe experience in Kailua, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re after a full-day adventure with snorkeling and wildlife, the Kailua: Mokulua Islands Guided Kayak and Snorkeling Tour offers excellent value and a comprehensive experience. For a shorter, more relaxed outing, the Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour is a good choice, especially if you want to combine paddling with some local food.
If you prefer a mix of activities, guided e-bike and kayak tours provide a well-rounded day exploring Kailua’s land and sea, perfect for those who appreciate variety and learning about Hawaii’s natural environment. To maximize your time, book early especially during peak seasons.
Kailua’s kayak and canoe tours showcase the best of Hawaiian coastal life, from tranquil paddling to wildlife encounters and scenic island vistas. Whether you’re after a physically engaging adventure or a laid-back exploration, these options provide memorable ways to experience the area. For a true taste of Hawaii’s outdoors, consider trying one of these top-rated tours—you’ll leave with stories, photos, and perhaps a new passion for paddling.