A draw among locals, the Kaneohe Sandbar is one of Oahu’s true hidden gems. Primely situated on Oahu’s Windward Coast, the Kaneohe Sandbar lies in the center of the island’s largest sheltered body of water, Kaneohe Bay.
With the protection of a large barrier reef, Kaneohe Bay and its sandbar on Oahu are protected from large ocean swells, allowing for a pleasant and truly one-of-a-kind experience out on the water.
Here are some reasons why a Kaneohe Bay Ocean Sports cruise to the Kaneohe Sandbar is an ultimate must-do when visiting the magical island of Oahu.
Fantastic Scenery with Beautiful Warm, Turquoise Blue Ocean Waters
Visitors to the Kaneohe Sandbar can wade in the bay’s warm waters at both high and low tide, no matter the time of year.
Kaneohe Sandbar Conditions
Sandbar conditions on Oahu are ideal throughout the year, making the Kaneohe Sandbar a must-do year-round activity when visiting Oahu.
At high tide, which differs based on the time of year, the waters come up to your torsos. While at low tide, it’s possible to see and walk on the sandy, white-sand sandbar shores…all while being in the center of a large Hawaiian bay!
If you’re curious about high/low tide conditions during your morning Kaneohe Sandbar ocean sports cruises or afternoon Kaneohe Sandbar ocean sports cruises, we recommend checking out the NOAA Tide & Currents Prediction Levels.
Aquatic Life at the Kaneohe Sandbar Barrier Reef
The fringing reefs of Kaneohe Bay make the sandbar on Oahu an ideal snorkeling location. Snorkelers can expect crystal clear waters that are teeming not only with marine life but coral.
Visitors can expect to see around 40 different species of coral, including finger coral and rice coral.
Sea cucumbers, sea urchins, parrotfish, and damselfish are all common sightings by snorkelers visiting the coral gardens.
An Emerald Green Ocean Awaits
Thanks to the shallowness of the sandbar on Oahu, you’ll find the waters here crystal clear, making it easy to spot marine life and, if you’re lucky, the Hawaiian green sea turtle.
Commonly known as honu, these beautiful wild animals are protected under state and federal laws), so it’s essential to remember always to keep your distance and view them from afar.
At low tide—which depends on the time of year and day—the sandbar can be exposed to reveal a three-acre strip of powdery white-sand beach that can be walked upon.
Waves are uncommon at the sandbar on Oahu, making the Kaneohe sandbar perfect for ocean sports adventures like standup paddleboarding, kayaking, banana boat rides, and bumper tubing.
Water Activities are Recommended
Averaging between 75-80 Fahrenheit year-round, the idyllic water temperatures at the sandbar on Oahu are ideal for swimming and partaking in a plethora of ocean sports activities.
Banana Boat, Bumper Tube Rides
The adventurous can choose between a banana boat—perfect for a group of four—and bumper tube rides that are sure to take your breath away.
Snorkeling
Explore the waters of the Kaneohe Sandbar by snorkeling your way through the clear warm waters of Kaneohe Bay. All our ocean sports adventure tours to the sandbar on Oahu come with free gear rental for the duration of your cruise.
Shallow spots around the reef are home to a diverse range of fish, coral, and aquatic life. And on lucky days, you may be swimming next to Hawaiian honu or a pod of dolphins.
SUPing and Kayaking
Want to keep things chill? Our SUP and clear-bottom (and regular) kayak offerings are perfect for beginners who want a bit of exercise but nothing too strenuous.
Our kayaks are also perfect if you take a sandbar tour with the kids in tow.
Relax on the KBOS Boat
Live Music Experience
Our most popular offering for all our Kaneohe Sandbar cruises is live music performed by our very own band of talented musicians. Let the soothing sounds of Hawaiian music lull you to a snooze aboard or while snorkeling your way through the ocean waters.
Soak up the sun on our Floating Platform
Ideally docked in the center of the sandbar on Oahu, our gigantic floating platform is perfect for soaking up the warm Hawaiian sunshine. Take a break from SUPing, dance to the music, or dive off for another snorkeling sesh—the choice is up to you!
Food at the Sandbar on Oahu
Our morning tours to the sandbar come with juice and water refreshments. Our afternoon tours come with the option of lunch that features a spread of croissant sandwiches, pineapple, salad, and chips.