This sandbar & its surrounding coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling, playing beach volleyball, having a lunch picnic & enjoying panoramic views of the Koolau Mountains & nearby islets. On the windward side of Oahu, this natural formation can be found at the center of reef-protected Kaneohe Bay. Depending on the tide, it can be covered with waist-high water or completely exposed, making a small beach. The sandbar is almost a mile away from shore, so you'll need a boat or kayak to get there.

What to Expect / Know before You Go

There is no bathroom or place to change your clothes at the sandbar. You will need to take a boat or kayak to get to the Kaneohe Bay Sandbar and wade through water to embark. Wear beach shoes, sandals or flip flops. Kaneohe Sandbar tours can include pick-up service, snorkeling equipment, beach activities, and even BBQ! To save time and effort, booking a sandbar tour is the best and easiest way to enjoy your time at the sandbar. How to get there The nearest boat harbor to Kaneohe Bay Sandbar is Heeia-Kea Small Boat Harbor. It will take about 40-45 minutes to drive from Waikiki to the Boat Harbor.

Head WEST on the H1 Freeway and take exit 20A to merge onto the Likelike Hwy (HI-63N). Then, take the HI-83 (Kahekili Highway) ramp and merge onto the HI-83W. Turn right onto Haiku Road and left onto Kamehameha Highway (HI-830). After you pass the entrance to Heeia State Park on the right, you will see a boat harbor on your right. Turn in and park. Parking is free. • Try Kayaking to Kaneohe sandbar for a fun way to enjoy being in the water! It usually takes about 30 minutes to kayak to the sandbar. Check out our kayak adventures!

*A sandbar is a landform found in water that is made entirely of sand, pebbles or silt. They often create tiny islands or land bridges, and act as a natural barrier against the tide.