Things to do nearNa Mokulua

Na Mokulua, meaning "the two islands" in Hawaiian, are among the most recognized landmarks on Oahu's Windward Coast. Managed as a seabird sanctuary by the State of Hawaii, the islets protect nesting colonies of wedge-tailed shearwaters and other native birds, giving them a protected status that keeps visitor numbers naturally low.

The larger islet, Moku Nui, holds a small sandy beach tucked into a rocky cove. Swimmers and snorkelers find the surrounding waters clear and relatively calm on settled days, with reef fish visible just below the surface. The interior trail climbs to a lookout with sweeping views back toward the Koolau Mountains and the Lanikai shoreline.

Most visitors reach Na Mokulua by kayak, a crossing of roughly a mile from Lanikai Beach. Guided tours are available for those less experienced on the water. The journey itself offers close views of the islets' rugged sea cliffs and occasional glimpses of spinner dolphins and green sea turtles.

Na Mokulua sit within a broader stretch of coast celebrated for its natural beauty, and a morning spent paddling out and exploring Moku Nui captures something essential about Hawaii's quieter, wilder side.