Best Places to Kayak on Oahu

Rent Kayaks With Active Oahu

Oahu offers countless unique adventures with islands you can paddle to, rivers in the rainforest to explore, and the surreal experience of standing on a sandbar in the middle of the ocean. Whether you are looking for a serene paddle or a thrilling exploration, there is something for everyone. At Active Oahu, we are here to help you make your water adventures a reality by providing affordable and convenient kayak rentals. Our rentals include everything you need for an unforgettable day out on the water: life jackets, paddles, seats, and roof racks with straps for transporting them on your vehicle.

Transporting Kayaks to the Beach

There are three easy ways to transport your kayaks to any of the kayaking locations around the island.

Using a Vehicle: We can help you transport vehicles on just about any vehicle. From pickup trucks to sedans, to convertibles with a soft top roof, we can help you transport your rentals safely and securely. For a more in-depth look at how to transport your kayak rentals using your vehicle, visit this page: Guide to Transporting Kayaks on top of a Vehicle
Using E-Bikes: A great alternative for those who don’t have a vehicle or want to level-up their adventure is to tow your kayak rental on our electric bikes using a kayak trailer. Our Kayak trailers are easy to operate and perfect for beginners and experienced adventurers alike. Visit this page to learn more about towing kayak rentals using e-bikes: Guide to Towing Kayaks with E-bikes in Kailua
Delivery: We offer free delivery and pickup to just about any kayaking location on the island. After you meet the required $76 booking minimum, we will bring your kayak rentals right to you, free of charge and come and pick them up when you are finished. Visit this page to learn more about our kayak delivery services: Kayak Deliveries on Oahu

Types of Kayaks

We offer three different types of kayaks to fit the needs of your group! Feel free to call us and talk to our adventure guides if you have any questions about which rentals will be most suitable for your groups needs and experience.

Single Kayak Rentals

Our single kayak rentals are great for those looking to kayak independently, solo adventures, or to add on for a larger group. Learn more about our kayak rentals and make a booking here:

Tandem Kayak Rentals

Tandem kayak rentals are ideal for couples or larger groups looking to kayak together. Visit this link to learn more and make a booking: Tandem Kayak Rentals

Three Person Kayak Rentals

Our three person kayaks are perfect for families as they allow for two paddlers, one passenger, and still have room for a cooler or dry bag! Learn more about our three-person kayaks here:

Checkout Our Different Kayaking Adventures:

With so many locations to choose from, there is something for everyone! Here are some of our favorites.

Kayak to Popoia Island

Just a 20 minute paddle from Kailua Beach, Popoia Island is a great destination for those who are new to kayaking in the ocean and are looking for something exciting, yet beginner friendly. Learn more about kayaking to Popoia Island here: Popoia Island Kayaking Adventure

people paddling to Popoia Island using tandem kayak rentals from Active Oahu

Kayak to the Mokulua Islands

For those looking for a longer adventure out on the water, Kailua’s Twin Islands are the perfect paddle! Located about an hour’s paddle from Kailua Beach, this thrilling adventure will land you on the Mokulua Islands where you can explore tide pools and even the famous “Queen’s Bath”. Learn more about kayaking to the Mokulua Islands here: Mokulua Islands Self Guided Kayak Adventure

Kayak to Chinaman’s Hat

Combining the thrill of paddling in the ocean with the surreal views from the top of the hike at Chinaman’s hat, this is easily one of Oahu’s most unique and popular kayaking destinations. About a 30 minute paddle from Kualoa Regional Park, followed by a 15 minute hike to the top, this adventure boasts stunning views of the Koolau Mountain Range and a one-of-a-kind experience. Learn more about Paddling to Chinaman’s Hat here: Chinamans Hat Kayak Adventure

Kayak to the Kaneohe Sandbar

Another one of Oahu’s most unique adventures is kayaking out to the Kaneohe Sandbar. Located about a 45 minute paddle from the launch spot, this experience includes amazing snorkeling opportunities as you paddle as well as the surreal feeling of standing up in the middle of the ocean when you reach the sandbar. Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks and make a day of hanging out at the sandbar. Visit this page to learn more about kayaking to the sandbar: Kaneohe Sandbar Self Guided Kayak Adventure

Two people kayak on their tandem kayak rental from Active Oahu

Kayak Through the Kahana Rainforest River

Searching for a more serene and scenic paddle? Look no further than the Kahana Rainforest! This paddle will take you through the calm waters of Kahana River lined with rope swings and picture perfect views, with the option to continue on and kayak in Kahana Bay with incredible views of the Koolau Mountains. Click here to learn more about paddling in the Kahana rainforest: Kahana River Kayak Adventure

people on a tandem kayak rental from Active Oahu in Kahana River

Kayak to Lanikai Beach

Lanikai is one of the world’s most famous beaches, but due to limited parking it can be hard to reach on busy days. One way to reach this popular and scenic beach is by towing your kayaks with our e-bike rentals and kayaking to Lanikai from its neighboring beach. Bring snorkel gear and enjoy the adventure of kayaking in the ocean, snorkeling among the plentiful coral reef and sea life, and soaking up the sun on the powder-soft sandy beach. Click this link to learn more about snorkeling at Lanikai Beach: Lanikai E-bike and Snorkel Self Guided Tour

Snorkelers in the water at Lanikai Beach

Checkout Our Guided Tours

Visit these links to learn more about the guided kayaking tours we offer! Each tour includes a brief kayaking lesson, all the equipment, snacks and drinks, lunch, and unforgettable memories. Guided Tours are perfect for those who are new to kayaking or those looking for a more immersive experience. Our adventure guides are all life-guard certified and knowledgeable about the area and conditions, giving you peace of mind as you paddle.