Paddle to Mokoli'i (Chinaman's Hat): Stand‑Up Paddleboard and Summit Hike from Kualoa
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Basic aerobic fitness; comfortable swimming ability and ability to scramble over uneven rock for short sections
Overview
Stand‑up paddle across calm Kaneohe Bay to Mokoliʻi (Chinaman’s Hat), then climb a short, rewarding trail for sweeping views of the Koolau Mountains and Kaneohe Sandbar. Small groups, full gear and a local guide make this one‑day ocean‑and‑summit adventure ideal for active travelers.
Paddle to Mokoli'i (Chinaman's Hat): Stand‑Up Paddleboard and Summit Hike from Kualoa
Select participants and date
The bay is a slow, breathing thing here—clear water sliding over coral, trade winds running their fingers through the Koolau ridgeline. You push off from Kualoa Regional Beach on a foam stand‑up board and the island known as Mokoliʻi—Chinaman’s Hat—grows from the horizon like a small, dark promise. The paddle across Kaneohe Bay is unhurried: gulls wheel, reef patterns flash beneath the surface and the Koolau Mountains keep a silent watch. On shore the ascent is steep and short, a scrubby trail that rewards breathless effort with a 360° view of the sandbar, the peninsula and the spine of Oʻahu.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Time it for calm water
Launch in the morning when trade winds are lighter—wind picks up in the afternoon and can make paddling back more challenging.
Footwear for the scramble
Bring closed water shoes with grip for the reef crossing and the rocky, sometimes loose trail to the summit.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
The bay’s reefs are fragile—choose mineral sunscreen and avoid lotions that harm coral; rinse hands before touching marine life.
Hydrate and pack light
A 1‑2L water bottle in a provided dry bag and a small snack will keep you comfortable without weighing down your board.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtles (honu) frequently seen in Kaneohe Bay
- Seabirds and shorebirds circling the island and sandbar
History
Mokoliʻi is an erosional remnant from the Koʻolau shield volcano; local Hawaiian legend holds the island is the tail of a defeated dragon.
Conservation
Avoid standing on coral, use reef‑safe sunscreen, and pack out all trash—Kaneohe Bay’s shallow reefs are sensitive to damage.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Kailua
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed‑toe water shoes
Protects feet on sharp reef and gives traction on the rocky summit scramble.
summer specific
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the coral ecosystems—apply before launch.
summer specific
Light wind layer
Morning and winter trade winds can be cool on the bay—pack a thin windbreaker.
winter specific
Dry bag (small)
Keeps phone, keys and snacks dry on the board; guides often supply one but you may want a personal bag.