On Oahu’s northeastern coast there are thirteen kilometers of shoreline that comprises Kaneohe Bay. Unlike the other beaches on Oahu, this beach doesn’t have white sand and clear water. Instead, it has so many unique factors that make it one of the most studied marine ecosystems in the world. This bay is one of the best places on Oahu, and with beautiful scenery and great activities, it is easily one of the best places in the state.
The waters of Kaneohe Bay are guarded by a barrier reef that was created by the trade winds and waves and is characterized by the many reefs and fringe reefs scattered all over the water. The beauty of this bay is never lost; whether you view it from the park or from the Pali Lookout, you’ll see the wide spectrum of blues and brown reefs that dot this bay. In the middle of the bay is a sandbar which is only accessible during times with low tide. Many boaters and kayakers like to visit this spot when it is visible.

You can access many points from Kaneohe Bay. Heeia Pier is popular spot for fishing and is the primary spot for launching small boats. Kualoa Beach is also found here, and there is a park and campsites and views of Mokolii (Chinaman’s Hat) Island. You can walk out to this island during low tide, but it is a very bad idea since the incoming tide can keep you from returning to shore.

The size of Kaneohe Bay makes boating or kayaking around this area ideal. When the winds are light or southerly in direction, the now smooth waters are perfect for gliding over and admiring the reef hidden under the sea.

Kaneohe Bay doesn’t have the white sand beaches that Oahu’s other beaches have, but don’t let that mislead you. This is the state’s largest bay and reef-protected lagoon. With patches of reefs, the color of the water is every shade of blue. Kaneohe Bay is nothing short of extraordinary when compared to Oahu’s other beaches.
Surrounding Kaneohe Bay are five islands that provide a dramatic background to those playing along the coastline. These islands are Chinaman’s Hat, Turtleback Island, Kapapa Island, Coconut Island, and a sandbar in the middle. While this sandbar disappears during high tide, it is a popular landing spot for boaters and kayakers in low tide.
Kaneohe Bay is a beautiful sight to behold. To enjoy the views of this beach venture to the Pali Lookout, or even at the Kaneohe Beach Park if you want to enjoy this place up close. You can also launch your kayak from this site or enjoy a picnic on the shore.
The rich marine ecosystems found here make Kaneohe Beach Park a fascinating area to study. In fact, its underwater coral formations and marine life makes this the most studied marine ecosystem in the world.  Even with the bay, however, the water in the bay is silted, and its shallow water is described as tidal flats, making it unsuitable for swimming.
Even if you can’t swim in the bay, you can join many others in admiring the beauty of the nature in Kaneohe Bay.