This vanishing sandbar in the middle of Kaneohe Bay is pure magic — at low tide, you're standing knee-deep in turquoise water surrounded by white sand and the dramatic Ko'olau Mountains. When the tide comes in, the whole thing disappears underwater. You can only reach it by boat from He'eia Kea Small Boat Harbor, which keeps it feeling special and uncrowded. The snorkeling here is incredible once you swim past the sandbar to where the water drops off into deep blue — that's where you'll see the best coral and potentially spot sea turtles. It's become the go-to spot for boat parties and celebrations, so don't be surprised if you encounter someone's birthday bash complete with a floating table.
💡 Insider Tip
Time your visit for low tide to get the full sandbar experience — at high tide it's completely underwater. The real snorkeling magic happens when you swim past the sandbar to the drop-off where the water turns deep blue.
Tour departures typically 9 AM – 2 PM
$45–$80 per person (boat tour)
Free at He'eia Kea Harbor
Low tide for the sandbar to be exposed






