
Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 1,378 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands worth booking?
Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands is a 5.5-hour experience in Oahu, United States, from $97 per person. It scores 85 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 1,378 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 85 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (1,378)
- Duration
- 5.5 hours
- From
- $97 per person
Small Groups! Explore the gorgeous beaches, islands and wildlife sanctuaries around Kailua Bay by kayak with your choice of a guided or self-guided tour. You can paddle to the Mokulua Islands or Popoia Island (Flat Island) to see bird sanctuaries, snorkel with green sea turtles at Lanikai Beach and enjoy incredible views from the water. Have time to relax on the beach and swim in the ocean as you discover the natural treasures of Oahu during this day in paradise. All kayak and snorkel equipment and free parking are included on this small-group tour.
What you get
About this experience
Small Groups! Explore the gorgeous beaches, islands and wildlife sanctuaries around Kailua Bay by kayak with your choice of a guided or self-guided tour. You can paddle to the Mokulua Islands or Popoia Island (Flat Island) to see bird sanctuaries, snorkel with green sea turtles at Lanikai Beach and enjoy incredible views from the water. Have time to relax on the beach and swim in the ocean as you discover the natural treasures of Oahu during this day in paradise. All kayak and snorkel equipment and free parking are included on this small-group tour.
What's included
Included
- Pick-up and drop off (If option is selected)
- Lunch (If option is selected)
- Professional guide (if option selected)
- Use of kayak
- Safety briefing and instruction
- Island Landing Permits
- Use of snorkel equipment, dry bag, locker and showers
Not included
- Gratuities
- Pick-up and drop off (If option is not selected)
- Professional guide (if option is not selected)
- Lunch (If option is not selected)
What you'll see and do
Kailua
If you Selected Hotel Pick Up and confirmed your pickup time and location, wait for you name to be called at the specified time. If you are driving, park in our lot for free (Kailua Beach Adventures). Meet your guide (If option selected) or your briefing staff for orientation. We will explain the routes and conditions. We have a full retail store and offer 15% off to Viator guests if you need Reef Safe Sunscreen, UV Shirts or souvenirs. Everyone is assigned a locker to store valuables while on the water. Get outfitted with your life jacket, snorkel gear, dry bag and kayaks. Then head out to the beach to start your kayaking adventure! We are located within a 5 min walk of Kailua Beach Park. Your adventure starts and finishes here. We have been in business since 1982, providing sustainable eco-tours in once of the most stunning bays in the world. Kailua Beach Adventures has been recognized three times for having the Eco Tour Guide of the Year for the State of Hawaii.
60 minutes here
Kailua Beach Park
Kailua Beach is where we launch our kayaks and land upon return. Its well known for being one of the most family friendly beaches on Oahu.
30 minutes here
Lanikai Beach
Paddle along Lanikai Beach, one of the top rated beaches in the world, famed for its soft white sand, turquoise water and great snorkeling.
45 minutes here
Mokulua Islands
(*If Self-Guided, the itinerary is flexible.) The final destination is Moku Nui of the famed Twin Islands. This is a bird nesting sanctuary that requires special permission to visit. Hawaiian monk seals are often basking on the beach and sea turtles feed on the coral reefs around the islands. Start off with a short hike to Queen's Bath tide pool and take the plunge into a salt water jacuzzi with a view. Hike back and go for a snorkel, searching for our sea turtle friends and schools of tropical fish. After this you've certainly earned your lunch so we break out a picnic and munch while watching the waves and the incredible view of the Ko'Olau Mountains. Native sea birds cruise overhead and your guide's tell the tales of Hawaiian explorers that traveled these waters.
120 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Oahu
Our shop has free parking and is walking distance to the beach.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 60 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Our shop has free parking and is walking distance to the beach.
Options you can book
Self Guided +Waikiki Shuttle
Hotel Pick-up : Roundtrip hotel shuttle from Waikiki (7:30-8:30am) - You will select the nearest pick-up location to your hotel later. Pickup included
Guide + Lunch, Waikiki Shuttle
Turkey or Vegetarian Sandwich : Please send us a message with your preference or dietary restrictions along with your email. Hotel Pickup: Roundtrip hotel shuttle service from Waikiki - You will need to select the nearest pick-up point: Pickup included
Guide + Lunch - Self Drive
Turkey or Veggie Sandwich: Please send us a message with your preference or dietary restrictions along with your email. Twin Islands Guided Kayak Tour: See more of Kailua Bay on this 5-hour tour with a small-group and an experienced local guide. See itineray section for complete itinerary.
Self Guided - Self Drive
Use of Bikes, Body Boards Duration: 5 hours: Our shop is open from 8am-5pm - Book a 12PM Start Time or earlier if you want the full 5 hours. Self Guided Kayaking Discovery: Receive a full briefing, then set out on your own adventure! *All equipment must be returned by 5:00pm
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Kailua Beach Adventures
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children 15 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult in a double (tandem) kayak
- The weight limit for a single-person kayak is 280lbs (127kg) and a double (tandem) kayak is 400lbs (181kg)
- Check in is 15 minutes before the tour time.
- Customers must be able to transport kayaks to the beach (15 min) on a cart and drag over the sand. They weigh 70lbs.
- All guests must be able to swim. Life Jackets are provided.
- HOURS: 8-5PM EVERYDAY - will need to return rentals by 5pm
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 1,372 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
1,372 verified traveler reviews for Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Mike was the best!
Our guide Mike was amazing! The kindest dude ever. We actually ran into him having his baby shower a couple days after our tour and he invited us to join! What a guy, congratulations to Mike and his family on welcoming a new family member and would highly recommend to book a tour with him.
via Tripadvisor
Great day on the water and beach!
Wesley led a great 5 mile RT adventure. We saw sea life, learned loads, and had a blast!
Response from the operator: Wesley's an awesome guide, and we are glad that you enjoyed the tour with him! We hope to see you guys again!
via Tripadvisor
Beautiful trip with turtles, seals, and a great beach!
From pick up to drop off, we had an awesome experience! The weather was warm but we had wind and squalls of rain. Our guide Tupre made sure we were safe, engaged us with local stories about the land, birds, animals, and the environment. We saw many turtles and seals and fish with our snorkel. We did a walk and got into the queens pools. We ate lunch on a private beach and truly spent a great day in nature! Thank you for making it a special trip!
Response from the operator: We are happy to hear that the process was smooth despite the rainy conditions. It's great that you had fun with Tupre and learned some awesome facts about nature and wildlife. It sounds like a well rounded advaenture and we appreciate you spending your day with us!
via Tripadvisor
Evelyn and Malia, were excellent, request them!!
Evelyn and Malia excellent!, They were knowledgeable about the island culture, sustainability and all living things on and around the islands. We appreciated their friendly and pleasant natures. We were delighted to see the turtles, monk seals, birds and sea creatures. While we were disappointed we could not swim in the Queens Bath however, Evelyn ensured our tour included an opportunity to swim in another "bath". Evelyn and Malia took photos of all of us, and even drone footages. We look forward to seeing receiving this and to share our amazing experience!!
Response from the operator: Evelyn and Malia truly make a great pair out on the water! It really sounds like you guys had a wonderful tour learning about the island, wildlife, and culture. We hope you guys love the footage they got of you, and we hope to see you again soon!
via Tripadvisor
3 Queens to the bath!
Justin was an amazing guide. He took the time to walk us thru getting started. He was very knowledgeable about the surrounding area. It was beautiful and I definitely recommend going to queens bath, although it is a challenging hike. If you have not kayaked before it might be difficult when the wind is up. Lunch was provided and also good .
Response from the operator: Awesome to hear that you enjoyed your tour with Justin! Thank you for choosing to book with us, and we hope to see you again in the future.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 5.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Price range
- $97 to $320
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 482
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Kailua Beach Adventures, who run 5 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 79.3.
See everything Kailua Beach Adventures runsWhy this scores 85
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Oahu.
How much does Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands cost?
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Prices start at $97 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Oahu usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands take?
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Plan for about 5.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Oahu is not rushed.
Is Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 85 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 1,378 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Oahu, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands?
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Around 482 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Oahu can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Oahu and add a light layer if any part of the 5.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Oahu within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Oahu?
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On Outty we rank every Oahu experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Oahu: Full or Half Day Grand Circle Island Tour, Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour, Oahu Majestic Circle Island Tour with Waimea Falls and Byodo Inn. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Oahu?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Oahu?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands?
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Included: Pick-up and drop off (If option is selected); Lunch (If option is selected); Professional guide (if option selected); Use of kayak; and Safety briefing and instruction. Not included: Gratuities; Pick-up and drop off (If option is not selected); Professional guide (if option is not selected); and Lunch (If option is not selected). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 9 listed pickup locations in and around Oahu. Be ready about 60 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands?
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Across 1,378 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Kailua Bay, Oahu: Epic Kayak and Snorkel to Islands?
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There are 4 options to choose from, including Self Guided +Waikiki Shuttle, Guide + Lunch, Waikiki Shuttle, Guide + Lunch - Self Drive, Self Guided - Self Drive. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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