Malaekahana Beach & Goat Island Snorkel

Arriving just after lunch at Malaekahana Beach on a Sunday, we were surprised how few other people were there.  I guess the 1.5 hour drive from Honolulu thins out the crowds?

In any case, we soon found the idea base on the beach just across from Goat Island where it appeared the snorkeling and swimming out would be good.

Although the water appeared quite rough, once in, the waves were easy to swim through and I made it out to Goat Island in only 15 mins or so.  Unfortunately, though, visibility in the water wasn't too good and I didn't see many fish.

Once on Goat Island, I took a quick hike around, chatted with a few sea kayakers who were also exploring, and then headed back into the water to snorkel/swim my way back to the beach.

After a few hours on the beach, visions of cold beers back in Waikiki danced in my head and we decided to head back to town.

We'll meet up at the main Malaekahana State Rec. Area parking lot to the right about .5 miles after entering off Hwy 83.  We'll then head across the campground to the sandy pooint directly across from Goat Island (Mokuauia).  Low tide should be at 9am or so, so unless the water is rough, late morning should be good time to get in the water.

Then we will snorkel our way out to the island and enjoy the short trails to a beautiful, normally quiet beach on Goat Island itself where we can again snorkel just off the beach.

Afterwards, we can also walk the 2-3 miles beach and forest loop trail through the State Recreation Area.

Participants should bring standard snorkel gear and some sort of wader shoes to wear on the island trails.  I also bring fins in case the currents are strong but some folks just walk out wearing old tennis shoes or waders.