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Secret Island

3.8 (58 reviews)

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Hammocks, shaded seating area
Jen C.

Booking through Kualoa ranch to see Secret island is a must do if visiting the islands. I was born and raised on this side of the island and initially thought why would I pay to go to the beach? But you're paying for all of the fun activities! Technically anyone could access the secret island beach walking through the sand/water/bushes through kualoa park, however you won't be allowed to use all of the Kualoa ranch amenities and activities. I did the half day option through Kualoa ranch from 8 am to 11:30 am with check in at 7:30 am at the Kualoa visitor center/ticket counter. There is a Kamaaina reduced rate for locals with your Hawaii drivers license required for the discount. I learned that you are no longer allowed to drive your personal car from the visitor center to the secret island docking area, everyone MUST catch the shuttle bus from the visitor center. This worked well since it was less stressful to just hop on the bus. The bus takes you to the secret island docking area where you catch a small boat that takes you across a 2 to 5 foot deep fish pond onto the secret island. From here we were greeted by so many different friendly employees. During my short 3 hour stay I did kayaking and signed up for all three activities which included 1) Glass Bottom Boat ride (didn't get a photo of the boat!) which takes you out to the reef to see Green Sea Turtles! If you look carefully, you'll see the turtles bob their heads in and out of the water. 2) Canoe Ride! We took a tour guide escorted canoe ride to the Kaneohe sand bar where we were able to get out of the canoe for about ten minutes. It's a fun experience to paddle a canoe if you never have before. 3) Fish pond tour - This activity was new this year, we took a small boat to tour the ancient Hawaiian fish pond where the original rock walls are just as how they were built, we learned that they harvest oysters in the pond and you can buy them at the Ranch House located next to the visitor center. Although the beach is not ideal for swimming due to the coral, this is a great beach to do all of the activities and walk on the sand. They also have a volleyball net, large connect four and some other land activities I didn't get a chance to check out. They have snacks like chips and soda/drinks for sale on the island but it is credit card or apple Pay only, no cash. If you pay for the full day, you'll get lunch, bring your own snacks for a half day. I recommend this tour if you want to try kayaking, canoe paddling, take a boat to see turtles or learn a little about the ancient fish pond. It's a nice relaxing beach day.

View of Koolau mountain
Jeanette S.

I've been here twice. The first time was for my husband's Family Day with the Army. The most recent is this four of July. We were with a group that was hosting a family day for families with Special needs children. Such a treat because we were able to bring my mom who has wanted for a long time to see secret island. She definitely made the most of the day there. It fun to go just as family but PRO-TIP: it's always more fun to go in a group so gather you friends and make a day of it! Both times we were able to enjoy the different activities in the island. From Volleyball, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, canoe ride to the sand bar, fish pond tour, lounging around in the hammocks, or playing in the water. There's something for everyone. I love that my husband and I could try out different things while watching our son, or even bringing him along for the canoe ride or the fish pond tour. It can be hard to find if you're just going there for a beach day. We drove right passed the entrance not realizing it was the entrance.

Paul N.

Wonderful and exciting experience by Kualoa Ranch Adventures! Secret Island Beach is obviously a big tourist attraction but totally worth checking out. This location was featured in ABC's "Lost" series, including the dock that faces out towards the Ko'olau Mountains (many people actually miss this dock and don't realize the aforementioned significance of it). You do have to make a reservation via the popular tourist attraction's website and you can choose a half-day (8:00 AM start or 11:45 AM start) or a full day (8:00 AM - 3:00 PM). If you choose the full day, lunch is included. After checking in at Kualoa Ranch's ticket office, you can either drive yourself (and your group) to the designated parking lot next to the dock or you can catch their bus shuttle. There are plenty of activities you can do, such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming or wading in the waters, or simply relaxing at their many benches, picnic tables under the tents, beach chairs, or several hammocks. Other activities you can also sign up for include beach volleyball, cornhole games, and ping pong. Plus, there are larger group activities one can sign up for like canoeing to the Kaneohe Sandbar in the outrigger (make sure you are willing and capable of paddling!) and their glass boat. Also helps that the island has plenty of shade and trees around. Changing stations and restrooms are also available on the island. The three hours I spent in the morning did go by too quickly, I must admit. My only issue is the beach being on the rocky side and possibly hurting or cutting your bare feet, so best to wear sandals when possible. I'll definitely come back in the near future and spend more time there.

Gregg R.

Great experience from Kualoa Ranch. I knew this place based off the Hollywood movie tours but was presently surprised about the secret beach adventure. I initially thought that it would be on the site of check in but we actually had to drive back up Kamehameha highway to a private well worn road. The quality of the road had me second guessing at first but when we arrived to the parking lot we saw that there was quite a picturesque view of the pond on the backside of the island. From there we were driven across the pond to the secret beach island. Really enjoyed the location and how secluded it was on the backside as it opened up to the beach with just a mind boggling number of activities to participate in. We ended up doing the glass boat and the canoe to the sandbar. While the glass boat didn't have much animals to see, the staff was great and very knowledge telling us about the locations we had seen in various movies. We did the canoe to the sandbar which involved us and various other beachgoers paddling to the sandbar. This was super fun and I wish we could have stayed out their longer but its as fun nonetheless. Getting back to the island themselves there are a lot of different activities to participate in such as paddling and kayaking. There was just so much to do at this location that we didn't really give ourselves a moment to relax. I consider this pretty great and thankfully doing half day in the morning, it was not busy at all!

Walter H.

We had heard about the Secret Island from some reviews, but we're happy to learn it was owned and facilitated through Kualo Ranch. Yes, you have to make reservations for either a 1/2 day or a full day; and yes, you have to pay for it. But, if you have the time and the means we thought it was super cool! Off the beaten path of the usual tourist areas the entrance is through a private driveway; followed by a very very short boat ride to the island. Once there they have it equipped with Kyaks, Paddle Boards, Beach chairs, a few Sand Volleyball courts, Ping Pong Tables, Covered Picnic Benches, and other activities like a glass bottomed boat to view the reef and sea turtles, and another boat to go check out the sand bars. All the activities were included. Bring water and snacks as they don't have food available there! The views are amazing! The atmosphere is totally chill! Love it there!

Brett B.

This adventure is really more for families or people who aren't just looking to chill. We didn't feel like paddling a SUP, kayak or canoe. I signed up for the outrigger, but bailed when I realized I had to paddle. The views were great, lots of shade, bunches of picnic tables and we swung in a hammock for a while... but the price may dissuade you if that's all you want to do. The lunch was a wrap, chips, pineapple cup, brownie and bottle of water. They do have A/C bathrooms on the "island".

Wedding Ceremony at Secret Island | Wedding Photography by HNL Studios www.hnlstudios.com
Charles L.

We at HNL Studios loved shooting at Secret Island! Kualoa's Secret Island is perfect for laid back couples longing for a beautiful undisturbed beach wedding. This venue is a true paradise! We loved its natural beauty and ambiance. Its capacity to hold 50 guests, makes it ideal for small weddings. The staff's hospitality ensured a seamless experience for both couples and vendors. Secret Island is the perfect wedding venue for relaxed brides looking for an intimate and private, yet fun, beach setting for their ceremony!

Hanging on the island
Nycole R.

OK, it may not really be "secret" but this place is amazing! Go early and maybe not on a weekend to avoid the crowds. We went on a Saturday morning at 9am and were among maybe 10 other people. Not bad at all. We booked through Kualoa Ranch, who provides transportation to and from the island from their center just up the road a bit. You get dropped off right at the dock where you take a short boat ride across the water to the island. There are floating bathrooms that are actually very nice. (When I was here a couple years ago, they were just porta potties, but they have definitely been upgraded.) On the beach, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. You can also relax on the beach in a hammock or on beach chairs. Beware that there are native chickens and roosters roaming about, so don't leave any food unattended. Also, prepare yourself to be awakened by the "cock-a-doodle-do" of a rooster who notices that you're taking a nap. I'm certain they get their entertainment out of doing that. If I could build a little fort here on the island and keep it to myself, I'd be moving here next week. But for now, I'll just have to settle for occasional vacations to my little "secret island."

Reuben L.

Wow....first time there and it was breathe taking. I was hired to do a wedding there and I was like, where did this place come from?! It is located in the Kaneohe area closer towards China Mans Hat. All the plants and trees were green with a big body of water making it look like an isolated island. There's a pier that goes out pretty far in the ocean. Lot's of wild life everywhere from big barracudas in the sea to flocks of birds flying across the sky. A perfect scenery for a wedding. They had a 40' × 100' tent holding 200 seats for guest. There's restrooms nearby and plenty of parking for cars. We entertained the guest with DJing and some strolling magic throughout the event. Everyone had a good time. The food was catered from Waiahole Poi Factory with terrific Hawaiian Food. The dessert was incredible kulolo ala mode. It was so good I went back for seconds, lol. I would recommend this place for any event, but be prepared for weather conditions if it doesn't go your favor.

First pier by showers
Crystal L.

Secret Island is nice for multiple activities and since the campsite was not being used during quarantine, it was very quiet. Some days, I went to the piers to take graduation photos, and enjoy the view of the fishpond and mountains. Other days, I would look for hermit crabs on the rocks. Many many different types of shells to be found in the sand. The walk to the pier can be shortened by crossing the grassy area rather than walking along the beach and sand. A good amount of people are usually there, so remember to bring a mask and social distance. Nice around for families with children

Lori I.

PICTURE PERFECT PARADISE http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/secret-island-kaneohe?select=kLetqCHC98GfscxbgyupWA#zKjBgXBEYbUFcqDso_qa4A Secret Island Beach is a fantastic place to take guests! We live on Oahu but I never found this place until my friends came into town. We chose the 3hr excursion as one of our tours through Kualoa Ranch (make advance reservations!) and it was perfect for our group, which included kids ages 5 to 55. Highly recommend. TIPS...BRING YOUR OWN: drinks, snacks, water bottle, sunscreen, lunch, towel, change of clothes, bag for wet clothes...pack like you are going to a beach! There is a tub with running water to wash your hands and porta potties if you need to use them. PRICE $26/$15 adult child. (Kama'aina $20/$12) PARKING We parked at Kualoa Ranch, checked in and boarded a bus around 9am which took us to the dock near the Moli'i fishpond. If you watched LOST, this dock was the submarine dock: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/secret-island-kaneohe?select=kLetqCHC98GfscxbgyupWA#DD9lGDAosFq38e50Zxtz1w PICTURESQUE We boarded the floating pontoon-like boat to cross the Moli'i fishpond, and started taking pictures immediately of the spectacular views of the Koolau mountain range during the 5 minute ride. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/secret-island-kaneohe?select=kLetqCHC98GfscxbgyupWA#YV4Y6_6O-p_Zhn2z0VAVeQ Once on the other side, a short 2 minute walk rewarded us with a gorgeous almost-private beach with views from Chinaman's hat to Kaneohe MCB! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/secret-island-kaneohe?select=kLetqCHC98GfscxbgyupWA#WyyRvCW3T9l_m1kHIGiu_Q ACTIVITES Stand up paddling - great for first timers like us. stay by the double buoys. kayaking - great workout snorkeling - I saw a huge sea turtle! paddling - the boys took the canoe out to the sandbar, watch for jellyfish volleyball - we didn't do this badminton - again, no time ping pong - no time. YOU DON'T LIKE SUN? There is something for everyone. Huge coconut palm trees provide shade for the hammocks, and the covered picnic table area was great place for a snack break. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/secret-island-kaneohe?select=kLetqCHC98GfscxbgyupWA#YrIoDszr08-dOgGkaTW69A

Tala P.

We absolutely love the Secret Island & Hawaii in general. It's best during low season because there's not a bunch of people. They do not allow alcohol but you can bring a small cooler and bring your own lunch etc... Be careful putting your feet in the lake area as there are 6ft barracudas in that water. Beach is beautiful and you will see little crabs and fishies jump out of the water.

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Pretty poor service, mean employees. Better off going to the regional park and enjoying some peace and quite

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Great place.. like your own private island " Gilligan's island" good for water kayaking

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Ask the Community - Secret Island

How is the snorkeling there? Lots of fish to see?

Can we just go on the island to take pictures on the dock?

I don't believe so as we had to take a boat over to the dock.

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Review Highlights - Secret Island

We arrived early at Kualoa Ranch to check in, where we were then led to the shuttle bus which took everyone to the island.

Mentioned in 11 reviews

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Kaneohe Bay Sandbar - Turning back and remembering town dock features so I know where to come back to

Kaneohe Bay Sandbar

4.8(133 reviews)
6.3 km

Here is my account of my kayaking trip to the sandbar. See accompanying pictures and videos. So,…read moreJohn at Go Bananas kayak rental strapped a long kayak with a skeg to my car. I drove off his parking lot, and arrived at the He'eia Kea Boat Harbor. On this windy and rainy day I launched off the Kaneohe Canoe Club towards where I thought the sandbar would be found. For my entire trip inching forward in that direction I was alone in the foreboding ocean, or rather they bay. But from my low vantage points, it looked as if I were in the middle of the deep ocean with breaking waves under me and dark clouds above me. John told me to aim for Kapapa Island, and he was right. Because as far as I could tell from my kayak it was just dark water all around me, except for that tiny speck of an island. All other boats I saw and thought to be tourist boats anchored at the sandbar all turned out to be decoys - they were docked so closed to shore in retrospect. Many a times I thought I'd reached the sandbar only to find empty boats in dark and deep water. Many more times I thought of turning back - it could be frightening being out there alone, even if I was prepared with all available safety devices. But I kept going. Then I sensed a change in water color. Shortly the sun poked its head out of the cloud. And magic happened. The sea all around me turned turquoise as soon as sunrays touched them, revealing that I was mere inches above sand now. I soon found a lone stand-up paddler lying supine on his board, drinking beer. I also ran into a birthday party dinning around a table half-submerged in water. Then Captain Bruce's boat showed up, dumping lots of merrymakers onto the sandbar. Now that I know the place, I would have no issues coming back again and finding it, next time. In some of the videos you will find dark clouds raining on entire towns, while I filmed the shore from the sandbar. That gives you a sense of how far the sandbar is from shore.

If you haven't made a visit yet to Kaneohe Bay Sandbar, do it asap because this is a once in a…read morelifetime experience. I had the hesitation to book it due to the fact my son is on the spectrum and wasn't sure how he was going to react during the experience. Took the chance and made a reservation through Hawaii Ocean Sports. They took us on a boat to access the beautiful Sandbar. It's nestled in the middle of the ocean 3 miles stretch of sand. Unfortunately, we ended up doing the afternoon tour where high tides took place water level up to our necks. During our ride there, we were served lunch consisting of a turkey sandwich, fruits, and a cookie. Very filling as we were on to our destination while we listened to live music entertaining us along the way. Snacks, towels, drinks, and a bar are available for additional cost. As we approached the Sandbar, we were required to do a brief safety class before heading into the beautiful water. My kids and I were surprised how magnificent the Sandbar was. Definitely a true paradise where our dreams came true. I didn't think I would ever experience this kind of beauty. My son and I were terrified at first as we entered the water, but our life jackets saved us as we were floating. Lots of activities offered which are part of the package including SUP, kayaking, volleyball, snorkeling, or relaxing at the dock while sipping on drinks. We mainly enjoyed ourselves floating in the ocean. The current did get a little rough as it started to pour rain right before heading back to the marina. One advice is to head out early onto the boat before everyone does because the changing and bathrooms can get wet with dirty grounds. Music was blasting with great hits as we ended the day. Made my son and I stand up desiring to dance. Truly this is an unforgettable magical experience. You bet I will make a reservation again when we return to Oahu next year!

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Kaneohe Bay Sandbar - Shortly after I came back, a stand-up paddler I met at the sandbar came back as well

Shortly after I came back, a stand-up paddler I met at the sandbar came back as well

Kaneohe Bay Sandbar - SUP! (Included in "ticket")

SUP! (Included in "ticket")

Kaneohe Bay Sandbar - John strapped the kayak securely to the car

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John strapped the kayak securely to the car

Kaneohe Beach Park - 7-21-25

Kaneohe Beach Park

2.8(6 reviews)
12.2 km

Date of visit: July 23, 2023…read more Parking: A small lot with free parking Offerings: View of the ocean Small playground Restrooms Picnic tables Wild chickens Experience: After getting food from Foodland, one of our friends decided to have us go here to sit down and eat. I did not know what to expect, so it was nice rolling up to a small park by the beach and being also perplexed by why there were so many chickens roaming around. Definitely had my Disney princess share of having chickens surround us while we sat down during such a beautiful, but windy day by the shoreline. Once we were done eating, some of us explored by the water and took pictures by a tree that was hanging over the edge of the water. It was a good teaser for us for the rest of the trip when it came to how the beaches would be and got me excited to see what other adventures were in store for us from this moment on since it was our first day there.

Great local park with a small playground, access to the ocean, bathrooms and parking. The view of…read morethe ocean is absolutely beautiful and it was not crowded when I went on a Sunday afternoon. Minus stars because there are a lot of chickens and birds that will hover around you when you have food. Also, the grass was very rocky and uncomfortable to lay down on even with a beach towel. I would bring a yoga or workout mat to lay down on the next time! I love that it's only a short drive from places like Foodland, Gotz grinds and other local spots with great food!

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Kaneohe Beach Park - July 2025...

July 2025...

Kaneohe Beach Park
Kaneohe Beach Park - 4.8.26

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4.8.26

Kailua Beach Adventures

Kailua Beach Adventures

4.8(1.9k reviews)
17.1 km

This is the second time I've been here! First time I went on a solo kayak tour, this time I did the…read moreguided kayak tour! Really fun times. Staff is always friendly. I had Morgan as my tour guide and he was very accommodating, knowledgeable, and super friendly! It's a very easy tour, Kailua Beach Adventures makes things as easy as possible. It does require some upper body strength, but anyone at any level can do it! BEAUTIFUL views! 10/10 would recommend.

We had an amazing time on the Kailua Beach Adventure kayak tour, and a huge part of that was thanks…read moreto Morgan! The entire experience was so much fun from start to finish--beautiful scenery, great pacing, and just the right mix of adventure and relaxation. Morgan was incredibly informative throughout the tour, sharing interesting facts about the area, local wildlife, and history in a way that kept everyone engaged. One of the highlights was kayaking out to Popoiʻa Island (Flat Island), which was absolutely beautiful. Morgan did an excellent job helping us navigate the waters both going out and coming back, making sure everyone felt comfortable and confident the entire time. Honestly, Morgan was the best guide we could have asked for--friendly, knowledgeable, patient, and just all-around awesome. We felt safe, well taken care of, and had such a great time. Highly recommend this tour, especially if you get Morgan as your guide!

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Kailua Beach Adventures
Kailua Beach Adventures - Looking over Kailua from Popoi'a island

Looking over Kailua from Popoi'a island

Kailua Beach Adventures - View at the Mokes

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View at the Mokes

Secret Island - beaches - Updated May 2026

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