Moku O Loe, or Coconut Island, sits in Kaneohe Bay off Oʻahu’s eastern coast, about a 30-minute drive from central Honolulu. The University of Hawaiʻi owns the island, which houses the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology. Join a Sunday public tour to see research pools and learn about marine science, or view the island from the water by kayak. Coral reefs, reef fish and sea turtles make the surrounding bay a draw for snorkeling, too.
A working marine research island
Moku O Loe belongs to the University of Hawaiʻi and is home to the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology. The island is an active research site, not a public park with unrestricted access. Its work focuses on marine life and the waters around Hawaiʻi.
On a public tour, visitors can see research pools holding fish and sharks and ask scientists about their work. The tour also covers what is happening beneath the surface around the islands. It gives context to the reefs and wildlife visible from Kaneohe Bay.
Seeing the island from the bay
Coconut palms and low-rise buildings give Moku O Loe a distinctive outline on the water. The island is also associated with the opening sequence of the television series Gilligan’s Island, a familiar image for viewers of the show.
Kayaking is a way to explore the bay around the island, where reef fish and sea turtles live. Snorkeling is another option. Access to land is restricted unless you are visiting on an authorized tour, so plan a water-based outing if you are not joining one.
FAQ
Can you visit Moku O Loe?
Public tours of the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology are available on Sundays. Landing is otherwise restricted.
How long should you spend at Moku O Loe?
Allow a few hours for a public tour or an outing on the water.
Can you kayak or snorkel around Coconut Island?
Yes. Kayaking and snorkeling are ways to explore the surrounding bay, where reef fish and sea turtles can be found.
Where is Moku O Loe?
The island is in Kaneohe Bay off Oʻahu’s eastern coast, about a 30-minute drive from central Honolulu.
