Mokoli'i (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Mokoli'i?
What makes it 66% Kids-Friendly: Kids can splash, wade at very low tide, and study tide pools, yet no lifeguards, slippery summit rock, and only basic restrooms mean close adult supervision and good swim skills are essential.
Positives:
- Shallow Water Access: Calm knee-deep water at low tide lets kids wade safely near the island.
- Park Facilities: Kualoa Regional Park offers restrooms, picnic tables, and free parking steps from the beach.
Challenges:
- Tide Dependency: Island access is only possible around low tide; high tide blocks the sandbar.
- No Beach Showers: No freshwater showers or changing rooms on the beach side; bring water for rinsing.
What is Mokoli'i?
- A small conical basalt islet rising approximately 206 feet off the windward coast of Oʻahu, Hawaii
- Formed from ancient volcanic tuff and lava flows, it presents a distinctive hat-like silhouette
- Designated as a protected seabird sanctuary and geological landmark opposite Kualoa Regional Park
What is so special about Mokoli'i for with kids?
- Low-tide sandbar walk to Mokoliʻi offers a unique beach adventure.
- Shallow tide pools allow kids to safely discover fish and marine life.
- Family tandem kayak tours include gear and basic instruction for all ages.
- Nearby Kualoa Regional Park has picnic spots, restrooms, and free parking.
- Half-day excursion ideal for families with children ages 3–12.
Recommended visit duration: 2-4 hours
Why 2-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This allows time for a low-tide walk, tide-pool play, and a family kayak trip without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Mokoli'i
Low-Tide Island Walk:
Walk across knee-deep water to Mokoliʻi’s base at low tide.
Tip: Check tide charts and wear water shoes for the rocky sandbar.
Family Kayak Trip:
Paddle tandem kayaks around the island with provided life vests and instruction.
Tip: Book morning slots for calmer waters and lighter winds.
Tide-Pool Exploration:
Explore shallow coves near Kualoa Regional Park to spot fish, sea urchins, and small crabs.
Tip: Bring a mesh net or small bucket for closer viewing of marine life.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mokoli'i
- Check Tide Tables: Use a tide chart or app to plan your walk during the lowest tide of the day.
- Pre-Book Kayaks: Reserve tandem kayaks online early to secure child-friendly boats.
Reviews of Mokoli'i
LeeAnna Moore
Super cool little island and easily accessible by kayak, paddle board or walking/swimming from the beach. There’s an awesome trail that goes to the top of the island, but be aware that it’s a fairly difficult hike and involves a little bit of rock climbing at the end. Know your limitations before going up to the top. Bring lots of water!!!! While we were there a hiker had to be rescued by helicopt...
Arielle McCarthy
Kayaked here in low tide, pretty much could walk from the shore if I wanted. Did some snorkeling and hiked to the top. An obvious statement, there’s no shade so come prepared, especially in the summer months. It truly is breathtaking to view the mountains! ALWAYS REMEMBER to respect the ‘āina (land) and leave it cleaner than you found it. Please show kindness to the locals and support local busin...
Abigail Walent
Very pretty view of Mokoli’i!! I will say, the restrooms were quite dissatisfactory.. some might even say disgusting.
Matthew Peel
High-yield adventure—awesome hike and not a long kayak to get to it. We rented from Active Oahu, about 30 mins away, and they had foam blocks and straps to put the double kayak on top of our small sedan. We followed their map of how to paddle out there (there’s a specific route, and if you take shortcuts, you’ll be working way harder than you need to!) and got there in 20-30 mins. The hike was ste...
May Zhagro
Beautiful beach and even far afar, Mokoli’i really stands out from the rest of the landscape. There are picnic tables scattered about and it’s a great stop to just relax, enjoy the scenery, listen to the waves, and maybe share a meal.
When is the best time to visit Mokoli'i (Hawaii, United States)?
Summer and late spring bring warmer, calmer waters for wading and snorkel play. In winter, trade winds may create small waves—plan around low-tide windows. Spring can reveal nesting shorebirds—observe without disturbing them.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family kayak tour (2 adults + 2 kids) | USD 308 |
| Snorkel gear rental for 4 | USD 60 |
| Total Estimated | USD 368 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Mokoli'i
Address: Mokoliʻi, Hawaii 96744, USA
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