Kailua isn’t just famous for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe—it’s also a prime spot for outdoor tours that bring you closer to Hawaii’s natural beauty. Whether you’re into kayaking, biking, or exploring islands, Kailua offers options that cater to all kinds of adventurers. We especially like the guided kayak tours because they combine scenic views with opportunities to see marine life up close, like sea turtles and seals. Plus, many of these tours include a tasty local lunch or shave ice, so you get a full experience beyond just paddling around. For a smooth introduction, check out the Kailua: Mokulua Islands Guided Kayak and Snorkeling Tour, which hits all the right notes for first-timers and seasoned paddlers alike.
If you prefer to explore on your own, Kailua’s self-guided options give you the freedom to set your own pace while still experiencing the island’s highlights. And for those who want a little more structure combined with activity, e-bike tours to places like Mokulua Islands add a fun twist. Whatever your style, Kailua’s tours serve up memorable moments with a splash of adventure.
Quick Overview
Our list features guided and self-guided kayak tours, perfect for paddling enthusiasts and casual explorers. You’ll find options like the Kailua: Mokulua Islands Guided Kayak and Snorkeling Tour that combine eco-friendly paddling with wildlife encounters. For those who like going at their own speed, Mokulua Islands Self-Guided Kayak Adventure offers freedom alongside seals and seabirds. If you’re into multi-activity days, the Kailua, Oahu: Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands blends biking and paddling for a comprehensive experience. For a more relaxed, short trip, consider the Kailua, Oahu: Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour, which is great for first-timers or families. Finally, if you’re after a full-day adventure, the Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour with Lunch combines paddling with a delicious meal and wildlife spotting.
1. Kailua: Mokulua Islands Guided Kayak and Snorkeling Tour
At number one, this 5-hour guided tour offers a comprehensive experience combining eco-friendly kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife watching. It’s perfect for those who want to explore Kailua’s waters with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. You’ll paddle over turquoise waters, taking in stunning coastal views, before reaching the Mokulua wildlife sanctuaries, where seals and seabirds are often spotted. Along the route, you’ll try out kayak surfing, a fun challenge that adds an adrenaline rush. The tour also includes a stop at Queen’s Bath, a natural tide pool where you can relax or snorkel among tropical fish.
What makes this tour shine is the focus on conservation—participants help remove marine debris—making it a responsible way to enjoy Hawaii’s marine environment. The guide shares insights into the islands’ natural history and marine life, enriching your experience. With a 4.9-star rating from 43 reviews, it’s clear this tour offers excellent value for a memorable day on the water. Expect breathtaking views, active fun, and a deep sense of connection to Hawaii’s coastal ecosystem.
Bottom Line: For a well-rounded, eco-conscious paddle with snorkeling and wildlife encounters, this tour delivers fantastic value and a chance to learn about Hawaii’s marine environment firsthand.
2. Mokulua Islands Self-Guided Kayak Adventure
This self-guided kayak tour is for independent travelers who want flexibility and adventure on their own terms. For around $86, you get all the equipment needed to explore Kailua’s waters and the Mokulua Islands at your pace. The tour includes detailed instructions, so even beginners can enjoy paddling out to the islands and exploring on foot. You’ll have the chance to see rare monk seals, which are often resting on the beaches, and to swim in the famous Queen’s Bath.
What makes this tour special is the freedom it offers—no guides, no schedules, just the open water and your curiosity. The island’s birdlife is impressive, and exploring the island on foot provides a quiet, personal experience. Many reviewers mention how easy it is to navigate with the provided instructions, making it accessible for families or solo travelers. The chance to see seals and seabirds up close while paddling in calm waters makes this a top choice for those comfortable with a bit of independence.
Bottom Line: If you’re a confident paddler looking for a flexible adventure to see seals and explore on your own, this self-guided tour hits the spot.
3. Kailua Bay & Popoia Island Self-Guided Kayaking
For a relaxed, beginner-friendly experience, this 4-hour self-guided tour offers paddling through Kailua Bay’s crystal-clear waters to Popoia Island. It’s ideal for families or travelers new to kayaking who want a straightforward, scenic outing. You get all the gear and instructions needed to explore at your own pace, plus a short paddle out to the island, which is a bird sanctuary with flat terrain perfect for walking and observing local wildlife.
While the reviews are not listed, the simplicity of this trip makes it a good introduction to kayaking in Hawaii. You’ll have the opportunity to discover the island on foot and enjoy the calm, shallow waters. The added bonus of paddling at your own pace and the chance to see local fish and birdlife makes this a no-fuss, enjoyable outing.
Bottom Line: This beginner tour is perfect if you want a simple, scenic paddle that’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
$86 per person
4. Kailua, Oahu: Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour to Mokulua Islands
At number four, this 5-hour guided tour combines two Hawaiiana favorites: electric biking through Kailua town and paddling out to the Mokulua Islands. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full day of activity without feeling overwhelmed. The e-bike ride allows you to cover more ground efficiently, including stops at scenic spots and local landmarks. The highlight is the guided kayak trip to the islands, where you’ll explore hidden tide pools and learn about the area’s wildlife and history from your guide.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of land and water adventures, providing a well-rounded glimpse of Kailua’s coastal environment. The lunch on the beach adds a relaxing element, and the guide’s commentary enriches your understanding of the islands. Reviewers appreciate how smoothly everything runs, especially the ability to explore tide pools and back sides of the islands that aren’t accessible on standard tours.
Bottom Line: For active travelers who enjoy both biking and paddling, this guided combo tour offers excellent value and a comprehensive Kailua experience.
$285 per person
5. Kailua, Oahu: Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak Tour
This half-day tour is a great choice if you want a guided, manageable paddle that focuses on local wildlife and scenic beauty. For $169, an experienced guide will meet you in the water and lead you to visit Popoia Island, one of Oahu’s smallest offshore islands. It’s perfect for spotting sea turtles and colorful fish, with the option to extend your exploration into a full-day adventure with rental gear.
The tour includes help with loading and unloading your kayak, plus the chance to relax with local tacos and shave ice afterward—a delicious reward. If you’re short on time but want a quality guided experience, this tour balances adventure with comfort, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
Bottom Line: This guided trip is excellent for wildlife lovers and anyone looking for a scenic, hassle-free paddle with added local flavor.
$169 per person
6. Kailua: Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour with Lunch
Our top full-day option is a guided kayak tour to the Mokulua Islands, with a focus on wildlife and island exploration. For $219, you paddle through Kailua Bay’s clear waters to get an up-close look at the islands. You can explore Moku Nui’s hidden tide pools, venture to its back side, and learn about local marine life from your guide. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch on the beach and cool off with shave ice, making it a perfect combination of activity and relaxation.
What makes this tour stand out is the detailed exploration of the islands and the chance to see sea turtles and tropical fish in their natural habitat. The combination of paddling, wildlife, and good food makes it a well-rounded choice for those wanting a memorable day on the water. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the sense of connection to Hawaii’s natural environment.
Bottom Line: For a full-day adventure that mixes wildlife, island exploring, and local food, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
$219 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re new to kayaking or traveling with family, the Kailua Bay & Popoia Island Self-Guided Kayaking offers a simple, relaxed outing. For those seeking a guided, all-in-one experience with wildlife and snorkeling, the Kailua: Mokulua Islands Guided Kayak and Snorkeling Tour delivers a comprehensive day on the water.
Active travelers who want a combination of biking and kayaking will love the Kailua, Oahu: Guided E-Bike & Kayak Tour, while those short on time might prefer the Popoia Island & Kailua Bay Guided Kayak. Finally, if you’re after a full-day, immersive experience, the Mokulua Islands Kayak Tour with Lunch balances adventure with relaxation.
When booking, consider the season—summer offers calmer waters, but even winter months can be fun if you’re prepared. Early reservations are recommended, especially for popular guided trips, to secure your spot.
In summary, Kailua offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. For a guided experience with snorkeling and wildlife, the first tour is a top pick. Families or beginners will appreciate the straightforward kayak trips, while adventure seekers will enjoy combining biking and paddling. Whether you want a half-day paddle or a full-day exploration, Kailua’s tours promise memorable Hawaiian moments—so plan ahead and book early to make sure you don’t miss out.