Mokoliʻi

Island Small volcanic islet known as Chinaman's Hat

Mokoliʻi, known as Chinaman’s Hat, is a small islet off Oahu’s windward coast; visitors kayak or paddle to shore, scramble to a rocky summit and snorkel surrounding reefs.

Mokoliʻi, often called “Chinaman’s Hat,” is a small volcanic islet off the windward coast of Oahu near Kualoa. The name Mokoliʻi means “little lizard” in Hawaiian and the islet is a remnant of volcanic activity associated with the Koʻolau Range.

The islet is popular for short hikes and kayak or paddle crossings from the nearby beach at Kualoa Regional Park when sea conditions permit. It is widely photographed as a distinctive cone-shaped feature on the windward shore and offers coastal views of Kaneohe Bay.

Geologically it is formed from volcanic material related to the Koʻolau volcanic system and is regarded in Hawaiian tradition and place‑name lore.

Mokoliʻi sits close offshore of Kualoa on Oahu’s windward coast, immediately seaward of Kaneohe Bay and visible from nearby coastal roads and parkland.

Access caution: Tide and sea conditions can change quickly; crossing to the islet by kayak or wading is commonly done but requires caution and local awareness.

How to Get to Mokoliʻi #

Launch points are at Kualoa Regional Park (just off Kamehameha Highway). The crossing is short (a few hundred meters) but can be tricky in winds-kayak or paddleboard rentals and guided tours operate from Kualoa and nearby beaches.

Tips for Visiting Mokoliʻi #

Launch kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from Kualoa Regional Park for the calm channel crossing.
Approach the island during low wind and calm seas-conditions can quickly change in Kaneohe Bay.
Wear reef shoes for the short climb; the summit is rocky and loose in places.