Kailua Kayak Tour: Popoia Island & Kailua Bay – A Detailed Review

So, you are thinking about seeing the waters off of Oahu’s east side, it seems? A guided kayak tour to Popoia Island and around Kailua Bay could be just what you need! Getting up close with the ocean, sea birds, and views of the Ko’olau mountain range might make for a memorable experience. This review offers, more or less, the information to decide if this kind of outdoor activity is right for you, just so you understand what awaits.

Why Choose a Guided Kayak Tour in Kailua Bay?

Kailua Bay, with its calm, fairly clear waters, that can vary slightly with the season, it’s almost a great location for kayaking. It’s quite a sight to paddle across that crystal-clear surface, that’s reflecting the bright Hawaiian sky. So, a guided tour is not only an easy way to experience the bay, it actually takes you to special spots you might miss on your own.

With some guidance, too it’s almost, possible to safely navigate to Popoia Island (also known as Flat Island), which happens to be a seabird sanctuary, and it offers close views of the wildlife and plant life there. You are guided to be more conscious of the marine life to avoid any negative impacts.

What to Expect from the Tour

So, most kayak tours start with, in a way, a briefing on land. Then the tour operators cover safety procedures, that sort of thing, and how to use the kayaking gear, as I was saying. The tours usually give you single or double kayaks, that could be cool, paddles, life vests, and sometimes dry bags to help keep stuff safe.

The group usually launches from Kailua Beach, then it begins its paddle to Popoia Island, very close by. Tour guides often share details, like your auntie used to do, about the history, ecology, and local culture all though the tour, so it is like you are getting some cultural education there.

Reaching Popoia Island: A Birdwatcher’s Delight

Once you get closer to Popoia Island, you really will begin to notice a lot of seabirds flying around, as a matter of fact, that’s the whole deal. Landing on the island gives you a chance to walk around a bit, to do some exploring, and observe the nesting birds, actually. Red-footed boobies, wedge-tailed shearwaters, and brown noddies are species you can probably see there, you know?

You see the views from the island are amazing. Clearly, the wide expanse of Kailua Bay is perfect for spotting honu. It is a sight, especially in the earlier morning hours, and one will easily spend a good amount of time taking photos here, if the ocean agrees.

Kayaking in Kailua Bay: Other Highlights

Paddling through Kailua Bay includes a lot of things, just so you know. Besides the seabirds and Honu (sea turtles), tours very frequently go by several scenic spots, of course.

A favorite view to capture seems to be that of the Ko’olau mountains as a backdrop to the beaches of Kailua. It is easy to just drift here to take in the sight while soaking in some sunlight.

What to Bring on Your Kayak Tour

Now, a better trip often involves proper planning. That, and thinking about those important items you probably will be needing when on that kayak for several hours. Alright, here is some stuff to prepare for.

• Sunscreen: The Hawaiian sun can really be pretty intense. Be certain to apply sunscreen frequently.
• Hat and Sunglasses: That’s there to help give a boost of comfort on that big body of water.
• Water and Snacks: Keeping, more or less, hydrated and energized can be very crucial on longer paddles.
• Waterproof Camera: You have, kind of, to take pictures of the scenic views.
• Towel and Change of Clothes: It’s pretty possible that you will get pretty wet, maybe.

Choosing the Right Tour Operator

Tour operators tend to differentiate on tour offerings and prices, clearly, before deciding on one to use you may want to confirm some details. First, checking reviews is pretty important. And reading what other people write will shed some insight into what is being offered.

So, checking to be certain a tour is, pretty much, environmentally responsible is important. Confirm that their staff are educated about not impacting the fragile ecosystem when visiting these areas. Asking them about this directly should reveal their approach to these sensitive habitats.

The Kailua Kayak Tour: Is It Worth It?

Doing that Kailua Bay guided kayak tour, pretty much, brings you closer to some of Oahu’s natural beauty. Viewing the views, as I was saying, seabirds, and turtles is probably more amazing, or pretty close, while on the water. But, now, if a peaceful nature experience with light activity is your thing, you should like your tour, anyway. The knowledge from tour guides, coupled with views from a kayak, make this tour something one ought to consider.