Kane'ohe Bay
Kane'ohe Bay is the largest sheltered body of water in Hawaii, stretching across Oahu's lush windward coast. A popular boating destination within the bay is the Kane'ohe Sandbar, ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and scenic exploration.
Kane'ohe Bay, Oahu
It's no stretch to say that Kane'ohe Bay is the stuff of Hollywood. This so-called "living postcard" has provided a scenic backdrop for dozens of popular movies and TV series, the most notable being Pearl Harbor, Gilligan’s Island and 50 First Dates. Hawaiian chiefs reportedly chose this place to build their sacred fishponds, and its historical vibe can be felt up to this day.
Kane'ohe Bay stretches from the Mokapu Peninsula, where the U.S. Marine Corps is based, all the way to Mokoli'i Island, also known as the Chinaman's Hat. This vast stretch of water contains five small islands, including Coconut Island (Moku o Lo'e), made popular in the TV series Gilligan's Island. Near the middle of the bay is the Kane'ohe sandbar (Ahu o Laka), a popular barbecue spot among local residents who have boats. Kapapa and Kekepa (Turtleback Rock) are two islets on the barrier reef.
The bay is also a breeding ground for hammerhead sharks. Thousands of them are born here every year and spend their first few months in the shallow water. Marine scientists flock to the bay to study these oddly-shaped creatures. Eventually, the hammerhead sharks swim out to the deeper waters where they grow up to 13 feet in length.
At the north end of Kane'ohe Bay is Kualoa Regional Park, a spacious beach park with nice views of Mokoli'i Island, Apua Fishpond and Kane'ohe Bay.
Key Features of Kane'ohe Bay
- Vast coastal expanse: The bay stretches 8 miles long and 2.7 miles wide along the windward coast
- Famous Sandbar: Ahu o Laka (Kane'ohe Sandbar) appears during low tide, popular for beach picnics by boat
- Iconic islands: Includes Mokoli'i (Chinaman's Hat) and Coconut Island (Moku o Lo'e), made famous by TV's Gilligan's Island
- Two islets: Kapapa and Kekepa (Turtleback Rock) are two islets on the barrier reef
- Boating paradise: Calm sheltered waters ideal for kayaking, sailing, and snorkeling
- Marine research hub: Scientists study hammerhead sharks, coral, and island ecosystems in this biodiverse environment
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you access the Kane'ohe Sandbar?
Yes, you can reach the sandbar by boat or kayak. It's a popular hangout spot during low tide for shallow water snorkeling, kayaking, or playing beach volleyball.
Are there sharks in the bay?
Yes, the bay is a hammerhead shark breeding ground. Juveniles stay in shallow waters and are generally not dangerous to humans.
Is Kane'ohe Bay good for sightseeing?
The bay is one of Oahu's most scenic coastal areas and has appeared in many movies and TV shows.
Where is Kane'ohe Bay located?
It's on the east (windward) side of Oahu, stretching from the Mokapu Peninsula to Mokoli'i Island.