Providing a dramatic backdrop for many Hollywood
Blockbusters, including Pearl Harbor, Gilligan's Island and Adam Sandler's
beloved cult classic 50 First Dates, Kaneohe Bay is one of East Oahu's most
idyllic areas. Not so much a beach (sand is scarce to none) as it is a
breathtaking bay, this vast stretch of vibrant blue water is surrounded on all
sides by the captivating Ko'olau Mountain range. Although not necessarily the
spot for swimmers, kayakers, boatman and avid fishermen will find their fix
(and more than fair share of fish!) in the peaceful, glass-like waters of this
Eastern Hawaiian realm. Home to five mini islands including the well-known
Coconut Island, Kaneohe Bay also houses a sandbar, surprisingly settled in the
very middle of its girth, and a great place for setting up a makeshift barbecue
spot on a boat. Locals especially love to launch their vessels and get very
social at this sandbar, making it a friendly community event that always brings
sunshine and smiles.
AT A GLANCE:
HIGHLIGHTS: A brilliant blue bay with expansive, calm
waters. Known for its fishing, kayaking and boating opportunities, Kaneohe Bay
also is home to five mini islands, a State Park and sandbar.
ACTIVITIES: Kayaking, boating and fishing.
LIFEGUARD: NO
WARNINGS!: Boat at your own risk, as there is no designated
lifeguard in this area. Also, being located on the Windward (east) side of the
island, winds, rain and unpredictable weather may pick up quickly without
warning, so keep this in mind when out on the water.
AMENITIES: Public restrooms located all along Bay at parks.
Also, A deli-style restaurant, restroom and boat launch/ramp are available
along Kaneohe Bay at He'eia Pier.
For avid kayakers, fishermen or boaters, Kaneohe Bay is a
dream come true. Stocked with fish as far as the eye can see, this beautiful
bay is steeped in history as well. It is here that Hawaiian chiefs supposedly
chose to construct their sacred fishponds spots where, when visited,
undeniable emit that ancient and mystical aura of another time.
The glistening and mostly calm waters pose the perfect
paddlers playground. Measured at 8 miles long and just over 2.5 miles wide, the
bay is popular among locals and tourists alike for fun in the sun and a welcome
relief and divergence from the everyday, run of the mill Hawaiian tourist
beaches. Gliding along the smooth waters, soaking in the sun and reveling in
the silence, a day spend here is as close to Heaven as Hawaii can get.
Five small islands are encapsulated in this nature area,
including the well-known Coconut Island made famous when featured in the
wildly popular TV show Gilligan's Island. Chinaman's Hat is yet another worth
mentioning for its stunning beauty, as well as its quirky characteristics. Some
call this island the "shrinking island," as inexplicably, if you keep your eyes
on it while you are driving towards it, the landmass actually appears to be
getting smaller (or shrinking) before your very eyes rather than looming ahead!
Other points of interest dotted along Kaneohe Bay's main
drag are Kualoa Regional Park, a spacious beach park with nice views of
Chinaman's Hat, Kualoua Ranch (a working horse ranch with guided tours
available daily), He'eia State Park and He'eia Pier as mentioned above,
boasting a boat launch, delicatessen with locally bought fish made fresh daily
right off the boat! It's the perfect midday meal or fresh dinner after
building up a big appetite out on the water.
Directions:
- Take HI-83 N
- Continue onto HI-830 N
- After roughly 4 miles you will reach the beginning of
Kaneohe Bay
