Chinaman’s Hat: Paddle, Scramble, and Swim Around Mokolii Island
A short paddle and a steep scramble reward visitors with one of Kaneohe Bay’s best micro-adventures.
If you’ve ever flown into Honolulu and squinted at the northeastern rim of Oahu, you may have noticed a tiny, conical dot rising out of Kaneohe Bay like a green thumb poking through the ocean. Up close, Mokolii Island—better known to visitors as Chinaman’s Hat—feels like a miniature world with its own weather and personality: a compact lump of volcanic rock ringed by reef, a sliver of sand, and a steep, grassy ridge that dares the curious to climb it. The approach matters here. From the beach in Kaneohe or Kualoa, the island is a short paddle away, but the water and wind quickly set the tone—calm and crystalline one day, choppy and testing the next.
Trail Wisdom
Time your crossing
Launch in the morning during light winds and plan around low tide for easier beaching.
Wear grippy shoes for the scramble
The summit route is steep with loose rock—trail runners or approach shoes are better than flip-flops.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
The bay’s coral is sensitive—choose mineral-based SPF and reapply sparingly out of the water.
Bring a leash for paddle boards and a PFD
A leash prevents separation from your board; PFDs are required or strongly recommended depending on local rules.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Snorkel the sheltered reef on the island’s lee side for colorful wrasse and surgeonfish
- •Combine the trip with a short stop at Kualoa’s shoreline for cultural history and quieter beaches
Wildlife
Blue-tailed wrasse and reef fish, Wedge-tailed shearwaters or resident seabirds on occasion
Conservation Note
The reefs around Mokolii are ecologically sensitive—use reef-safe products, avoid standing on coral, and follow local marine conservation guidelines.
Mokolii’s name means 'little lizard' in Hawaiian and is linked to local legends; the surrounding waters were historically used for fishponds and nearshore fishing.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild paddles, Fewer crowds, Birdwatching
Challenges: Occasional rain squalls, Variable winds
Spring offers comfortable temperatures and moderated trade winds—good for paddling and spotting shorebirds.
summer
Best for: Calm seas, Snorkeling, Afternoon light
Challenges: Intense sun, Higher visitor numbers
Summer is prime for calm crossings and clear water, but bring sun protection and start early to avoid crowds.
fall
Best for: Quiet beaches, Good visibility, Warm water
Challenges: Occasional southerly swells, Shorter daylight
Fall blends warm water with thinning crowds—conditions can be ideal but watch for early swells.
winter
Best for: Storm-watching from shore, Rugged ocean views
Challenges: Strong winds, Large swells making the crossing hazardous
Winter brings bigger surf and wind—best experienced from mainland vantage points rather than a crossing.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sit-on-top kayak or stable SUPEssential
Provides a stable platform for the short paddle to Mokolii and easy re-boarding if you fall in.
Approach shoes or grippy trail runnersEssential
Protects feet and provides traction on basalt and loose scree during the summit scramble.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin while minimizing harm to coral and marine life.
Personal flotation device (PFD)Essential
Safety essential for any open-water paddle in Kaneohe Bay.
Common Questions
Can I land on Mokolii Island?
Yes—public access is allowed; landings occur on the small beach. Be mindful of bird nesting areas and pack out all trash.
How long is the paddle to the island?
The crossing is typically 0.5–1 mile depending on your launch point; allow 15–45 minutes each way depending on conditions and craft.
Is the summit hike difficult?
It’s a short but steep scramble of roughly 15–30 minutes with uneven footing—good shoes and a careful pace are advised.
Do I need a permit to visit?
No special permit is required for casual visits, but commercial guided activities may require permits—check with local authorities for regulations.
When is the best time of day to go?
Morning tends to offer calmer winds and fewer boats; aim for a slack-tide beaching window for easier access.
Are there facilities on the island?
No—there are no facilities, so bring water, sunscreen, and a small first-aid kit and pack out everything you bring in.
What to Pack
Kayak or SUP with leash (stable craft for the crossing), PFD and small first-aid kit (safety essentials), reef-safe sunscreen and hat (protect yourself and the reef), grippy shoes and water (for the scramble and hydration).
Did You Know
The Hawaiian name Mokolii means 'little lizard' and is tied to a local legend of a lizard turned to stone; the island’s other name, Chinaman’s Hat, comes from its distinctive conical profile.
Quick Travel Tips
Check the marine forecast; launch early morning for calmer water; bring cash or card for nearby Kaneohe eats; respect nesting birds and coral (pack out trash).
Local Flavor
Windward Oahu blends local ʻohana eateries, classic plate lunches and shave ice with quiet beaches and cultural sites. After a paddle to Mokolii, grab poke or a loco moco in Kaneohe and consider a stop at Kualoa for cultural tours.
Logistics Snapshot
Distance from shore: ~0.5–1 mile; Summit: 15–30 minute scramble; Facilities: none; Best for: paddlers and short scramblers; Permits: none for casual visits; Safety: PFD, reef-safe sunscreen, check wind and swell.
Sustainability Note
Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid standing on or touching coral, remove any trash, and steer clear of bird nesting areas—small islands are fragile and recover slowly from disturbance.