Kane’ohe Bay Kayaking Basics

Kane’ohe Bay is the flattest, calmest, most protected bay on Oahu’s windward coast, which makes it an ideal place for kayaking.  

The wind and the tide can still have an effect on your paddling experience here, so those two conditions are the most important things to be aware of that will determine the difficulty level and accessibility of different possible destinations.  

Our staff will give you a waterproof map of the bay and a personalized briefing of the conditions, possible destinations, and everything you need to know to have a safe, fun, kayaking experience!

Kayaking to the Kane’ohe Sandbar

The famous sandbar is one possible destination to kayak to in Kane’ohe Bay.  The sandbar is not an island.  Most of the time it is actually submerged, but usually anywhere from ankle to waist deep in its shallowest areas.  You can always go there, and it is always shallow enough to stand on, but it only becomes a dry, exposed beach at extreme low tides, which doesn’t happen every day.  You can always check the tide prediction with us before scheduling your kayak rental.

The sandbar is located over one mile out from our location at the outer reaches of Kane’ohe Bay.  It will always be the most challenging paddling destination relative to other reefs strictly because of the distance.  But it is totally worth it!  Just remember to check the wind forecast.  The wind will be the most important factor that will determine the difficulty level.

Anchoring Your Kayak

Make sure to rent an anchor (or the total yak pack that includes an anchor) if you want to be able to leave your kayak unattended to swim, snorkel, or relax without having to hang onto the kayak.  

The anchors are small, easy to use, and will be already attached to your kayak so you don’t need to tie or untie anything.  Just set it and forget it.  But always keep an eye on your kayaks when anchored to make sure the anchor is staying set and not coming loose.

Be sure to only anchor in the sand.  Assume everything that looks like rock is living coral.  Please avoid all contact with coral at all costs.  In the sand is the only place for feet and anchors.