Did you know that Kama’aina Kayak and Snorkel Eco-Ventures is a non-profit eco-adventure program, which donates to a non-profit organization called Kama’aina Kids that facilitates instructional and educational programs, as well as beautifies and restores the He’eia State Park? They offer kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing ecotours at affordable prices.

The largest sheltered body of water in the Hawaiian islands, Kane’ohe Bay is home to a barrier reef with five tiny islands anchored in it, making it a top bucket list for marine enthusiasts. Two of these are the famous Chinaman’s Hat and the Coconut Island, which is owned by the state of Hawaii, where you could also find the University of Hawaii Research Center. If you have seen the TV series “Gilligan’s Island,” the Coconut Island might look familiar to you because it was where the show filmed its opening sequence.

You will, then, get in your kayaks and be escorted out into the Bay through a safety boat. About halfway of a hidden oasis called Horseshoe Reef, you will unhook from the boat and then paddle the rest of the way towards the reef. On your way while paddling, you get to explore the protected waters of Kane’ohe Bay to search for sea turtles, rays, and some tropical fish that are hiding in their natural habitat. As you stroll the waters, your friendly guide will tell you about the bay’s history, the various types of reef, and whatever marine life you will encounter. You will also come to understand the challenges facing the marine ecosystems. Some guests have been so lucky to see little 3-foot reef sharks, but the reef barrier keeps the biggest one outside.

When everybody arrives at the Horseshoe Reef, indulge in your delicious snacks and refreshments. Right after, you will enjoy a 45-minute snorkeling just above the most pristine and healthiest coral reef in Oahu. When you get back at He’eia State Park waterfront, you get a taste of their famous mouthwatering barbecue for lunch!

• Visit the majestic He’eia State Park
• Listen to educational narration of Kaneohe Bay, coral reefs, and local marine life
• An opportunity to watch the spectacular Koolau Mountains
• 45-minute snorkel and get closer to green sea turtles, fish, live coral and sea cucumbers
• Visit the unique Horseshoe Reef
• See the Coconut Island where the TV show Gilligan’s Island was filmed
• See many patch reefs

• Visit the majestic He’eia State Park
• Listen to educational narration of Kaneohe Bay, coral reefs, and local marine life
• An opportunity to watch the spectacular Koolau Mountains
• 45-minute snorkel and get closer to green sea turtles, fish, live coral and sea cucumbers
• Visit the unique Horseshoe Reef
• See the Coconut Island where the TV show Gilligan’s Island was filmed
• See many patch reefs

• Tour time is from 9 am to 1 pm. If you are driving, check in at Kama’aina Kayak and Snorkel Eco-Ventures, 46-465 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744 at 8:45 am. If you are taking the complimentary transportation, pick-up time is from 7:30 am to 8:00 am, depending on your hotel location. Return to Waikiki is from 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm.

• No participants below 5 years old are allowed, and all participants should fit in a 30 to 50-pound life jacket.
• Operation: Monday-Saturday
• Duration: 4 hours (3 hours in the water, 1 hour for lunch)