Tours and Tickets to Experience Mokolii Island

There are plenty of ways to experience Mokoliʻi Island. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Oahu's Ultimate Tour: Dole, Turtle Snorkel, & Byodo Temple
• All Inclusive Ultimate Circle-Island Tour, Waimea Falls & Lunch
• Circle Island Tour with Waimea Waterfall
• Magnum PI Hughes 500 4-Passenger Doors-Off Helicopters
• Oahu Deluxe Grand Circle-Island Tour

While it is technically free to visit Mokoliʻi Island, many travelers book tours that handle the logistics of reaching the island. Self-guided kayak tours that provide equipment and maps are from around US$80, while sightseeing group tours start at about US$70 and visit multiple Oahu sights.

Mokoliʻi Island is a small island that lies off Kualoa Point on Oahu. The conical island has long been known as “Chinaman’s Hat” because of its similarity to traditional headwear. However, some people consider the nickname to be culturally insensitive and encourage the use of its proper name instead.

You can get to Mokoliʻi Island at low tide by walking around half a mile (0.8 kilometers) from Kualoa Regional Park in Kaneohe Bay—check tide times before setting off. You can kayak to the island during high tide; rental kayaks are available in Kailua. Alternatively, book a tour that includes guided kayak trips to the island.

Yes, it is possible to hike on Mokoliʻi Island. A hiking trail leads you to the summit of the island, where there are great views across the Pacific Ocean. While the hike is short—most travelers report it takes around 20 minutes—it can be steep and challenging, with dirt trails and rocky sections to navigate. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to attempt the hike.

Examples of wildlife and marine life that can be spotted around Mokoliʻi Island are sea birds, sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, and hammerhead sharks. Avoid disturbing any creatures you see or their habitats.