Lanikai Beach Islands, located on the windward coast of Oahu, Hawaii, offer a unique and captivating experience for beach enthusiasts. Nestled in the charming town of Kailua, these islands boast stunning natural beauty, diverse marine life, and a range of outdoor activities that cater to adventurous travelers.
Overview of Lanikai Beach Islands
Lanikai Beach is situated approximately 17 miles northeast of the bustling Waikiki district, providing a peaceful and serene escape from the crowds. The beach is accessible via Mokulua Drive, a one-way loop that winds through a quiet beach-side community. Parking, however, can be a challenge, especially on weekends, as it is limited to street parking.
The Mokulua Islands
The Mokulua Islands, also known as “The Mokes,” are the main attraction at Lanikai Beach. These twin islands, North Mokulua (Mokulua Nui) and South Mokulua (Mokulua Iki), are seabird sanctuaries protected by the state of Hawaii.
North Mokulua Island (Mokulua Nui)
- Size: Approximately 1,000 feet by 800 feet
- Terrain: Steep cliffs on the north, east, and southeast sides, with a sandy beach on the west side
- Height: Reaches a height of about 225 feet
South Mokulua Island (Mokulua Iki)
- Size: Smaller, measuring around 875 feet by 700 feet
- Terrain: Rocky coral beach on the west side
- Height: Reaches a height of about 150 feet
Activities at Lanikai Beach Islands
Lanikai Beach Islands offer a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy:
Kayaking
Rent kayaks in Kailua and paddle to or around the Mokulua Islands. The journey from Lanikai Beach to the islands takes approximately 1.25 miles, while the trip from Kailua Beach Park is around 2.5 miles.
Snorkeling
The waters around the Mokulua Islands are popular for snorkeling due to the presence of old underwater lava formations, which provide a diverse habitat for marine life.
Rock Climbing
Moku Nui (North Mokulua Island) has a trail that is accessible for rock climbers, located on the right (south) side of the island.
Wildlife Viewing
The waters around Moku Nui are home to a variety of wildlife, including green sea turtles, wedge-tailed shearwaters, rock crabs, and occasionally spinner dolphins and humpback whales (during the winter season).
Tips and Essentials for Visiting Lanikai Beach Islands
- Timing: Plan your visit during calm ocean days, as strong currents and waves can make kayaking and snorkeling more challenging.
- Facilities: There are no facilities on Moku Nui, so be sure to bring supplies such as sunscreen, water, and food. Kailua Beach Park offers bathroom facilities and showers.
- Safety: Exercise caution around coral heads and strong currents, as there are no lifeguards at Moku Nui.