Kaneohe Sandbar Experience
Duration
3–4 hours
Distance
~1 Mile Offshore
Included
Snorkeling & Sandbar
The Experience
The Kaneohe Sandbar — also known as Ahu o Laka or the 'Sunken Island' — is one of the most unique spots in all of Hawaiʻi. Located about a mile offshore in Kāneʻohe Bay on the windward side of Oʻahu, it's a vast sandbar roughly three miles long and one mile wide that emerges during low tide to form a temporary beach in the middle of the ocean. What makes it truly special is how it transforms with the tide — at low tide you can walk across soft white sand surrounded by open water, while at high tide it becomes a shallow lagoon perfect for floating and swimming. Set between iconic islets like Chinaman's Hat and Coconut Island, with the stunning Koʻolau Mountains as a backdrop, it feels far removed from the usual tourist crowds. The fringing reefs of Kāneʻohe Bay make it an ideal snorkeling spot, with around 40 species of coral including finger coral and rice coral, and abundant marine life including parrotfish, damselfish, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers.
Pricing
All rates are per hour. Military and Kama'āina (Hawaii resident) discounts available with valid ID.
| Bus / Option | Standard Rate | Military / Kama'āina |
|---|---|---|
| AM Adult (13+ yrs) | $116/hr | — |
| AM Child (3–12 yrs) | $97/hr | — |
| Banana Boat Add-On | $30/hr | — |
| PM Adult (13+ yrs) | $127/hr | — |
| PM Child (3–12 yrs) | $107/hr | — |
| PM w/ Banana & Bumper – Adult (13+ yrs) | $177/hr | — |
| PM w/ Banana & Bumper – Child (3–12 yrs) | $157/hr | — |
* Valid military ID or Hawaii driver's license required for discounted rates. Rates subject to change — contact your Aloha Ambassador for a personalised quote.
Unforgettable Moments
The Floating Beach
Walk across soft white sand in the middle of the ocean — a once-in-a-lifetime experience unique to Hawaiʻi
Snorkeling the Coral Gardens
Discover 40 species of coral and vibrant marine life in the crystal-clear, calm waters of Kāneʻohe Bay
Kayaking & SUP
Paddle through turquoise waters at your own pace, with the Koʻolau Mountains as your backdrop
Koʻolau Mountain Views
Soak in sweeping panoramic views of Oʻahu's dramatic mountain range from the open waters of the bay
⚠️ Safety Notes
- ✓Conditions change with tides, wind, and weather — always check tide charts before visiting
- ✓Watch for boat traffic in the bay
- ✓No shade available — bring sunscreen and protective clothing
- ✓Water depth changes significantly with the tide
- ✓Leave no trace — take all trash with you
🌿 Environment & Values
- ✓Reef-safe sunscreen required
- ✓Plastic-free experience
- ✓Locally owned and operated
- ✓Small-group tours of no more than 12 guests
- ✓Reusable water bottles provided
- ✓Committed to protecting Kāneʻohe Bay's coral ecosystem
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting at
Adult (13+ yrs)
$116 each
Child (3–12 yrs)
$97 each
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