Flat Island

Flat Island, or Popoia Island, sits just a quarter mile off Kailua Beach Park on Oahu's windward shore. It is a protected seabird sanctuary, home to nesting wedge-tailed shearwaters and other native species.

The island is a popular kayaking destination, especially for beginners, as it offers a short paddle with rewarding views of the Mokulua Islands, Koʻolau Mountains, and the turquoise waters of Kailua Bay.

Visitors can explore tide pools and small beaches on the islet, but it's important to respect the wildlife and avoid disturbing nesting birds.

Hawaii's climate is tropical, and the water temperature is consistently warm, making it possible to swim all year round.

Parking for Flat Island access is available at Kailua Beach Park. The lot is free and offers ample space, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.

Flat Island offers a range of activities for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Kailua Bay.

• Kayaking: Paddle through the calm waters of Kailua Bay to reach the island, a short and beginner-friendly journey.
• Tide Pool Exploration: Discover marine life in the island’s tide pools, including crabs, fish, and sea urchins.
• Birdwatching: Observe native seabirds nesting on the island, a unique opportunity to see Hawaiian wildlife up close.

Flat Island is a designated seabird sanctuary, making it a haven for native and migratory birds such as wedge-tailed shearwaters and bulwer’s petrels. Visitors often spot these birds nesting in the island’s crevices.

The surrounding waters are home to Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu), which can often be seen swimming near kayaks as they feed on the seagrass beds.

Tide pools on the island are teeming with marine life, including small fish, crabs, and sea urchins, making it a fascinating spot for eco-friendly exploration.

While there are no food options on Flat Island, nearby Kailua offers plenty of delicious choices for before or after your visit.

1. Kalapawai Market: Located near Kailua Beach Park, this local favorite serves everything from breakfast bagels to fish tacos, perfect for a picnic.
2. Nalu Health Bar: Stop by for a refreshing smoothie, acai bowl, or a hearty sandwich before heading out to kayak.
3. Buzz’s Original Steakhouse: A great spot for a sit-down meal with a view, located just minutes from Kailua Beach.

Flat Island is surrounded by several iconic landmarks that make the area even more special.

• Kailua Beach Park: The launch point for kayaking to Flat Island, this expansive beach features white sand, turquoise waters, and ample space to relax.
• Mokulua Islands (The Mokes): Visible from Flat Island, these twin islets are another popular kayaking destination for more experienced paddlers.
• Koʻolau Mountain Range: Provides a stunning backdrop to the entire Kailua Bay area, adding to the natural beauty of the scenery.

Flat Island is perfect for beginner kayakers due to its proximity to Kailua Beach and the calm waters of the bay. It’s also a great spot for nature lovers interested in birdwatching or exploring tide pools.

Families with older children or adventurous travelers will enjoy the short paddle and the opportunity to see native Hawaiian wildlife up close.

This destination is also ideal for those seeking a peaceful, eco-friendly activity away from the crowds at more popular beaches.

Flat Island can be reached by kayaking from Kailua Beach Park, which is located at 526 Kawailoa Rd, Kailua, HI 96734. The paddle to the island takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

Kayak rentals are available nearby, including at Kailua Beach Adventures, which also offers guided tours to Flat Island for those who want a more structured experience.

If you’re coming from Waikiki, you can take TheBus (Route 67 or 671) to Kailua Town and transfer to Route 70, which drops you near Kailua Beach Park. Driving takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.

There are no lifeguards on Flat Island, so visitors should exercise caution when kayaking or exploring the islet.

Check weather and surf conditions before heading out, as winds and currents can change quickly in Kailua Bay.

Respect the wildlife sanctuary status of the island by staying on designated paths and avoiding any areas where birds are nesting.

Flat Island, or Popoia Island, has cultural significance in Hawaiian history as a former fishing shrine. Today, it serves as a protected seabird sanctuary, preserving the natural habitat of native species.