You'll Want To Visit This Awesome Underwater Sandbar In Hawaii Before Summer's Over
By Megan Shute|Published August 28, 2018
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Megan Shute
Author
With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
From miles and miles of breathtaking beaches with fine, white sand to coastal gems you won’t find anywhere else in America, the Hawaiian Islands are a treasure trove of magical natural wonders. That being said, there is perhaps no gem more magnificent than the underwater sandbar hiding off the coast of Hawaii. Located in the middle of Kaneohe Bay surrounded by the striking Ko’olau mountains, the Kaneohe Sandbar features crystalline turquoise waters, fine white sand, and plenty of fun. Let’s dive in, shall we?
Stretching six miles long and half-a-mile wide, the Kaneohe Sandbar is the only one of its kind in Hawaii and is also rumored to be the largest saltwater sandbar in the world.
With panoramic, 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, the surrounding Ko'olau Mountains and various offshore islands, this geological anomaly is one of the prettiest destinations in all of Hawaii.
This beautiful strip of sand lies off the coast of Kaneohe Bay and is almost at sea level. At high tide, you can comfortably stand waist-deep in the water, while at low tide, the sand is completely exposed. No matter what time you visit, the Kaneohe Sandbar is as ethereal as it is entertaining.
For the ultimate weekend excursion, find a friend who owns a boat, take a charter, or rent one from any of the nearby marinas — and take the 10-minute cruise out to the sandbar. You can even kayak there if you're up for the challenge!
The sandbar is notorious for being the best place to throw a party on the Windward coast. Most people bring a ton of food, drinks, and just hang out catching some sun.
Some people even set up volleyball nets for some friendly competition during low tide. When the tide is high, the sandbar is also an excellent snorkeling destination.
Don't forget your tubes and floaties — just in case you are at the sandbar during high tide and you want to relax.
When visiting the Kaneohe Sandbar, be sure to lather on the sunscreen and bring a hat for shade. It gets hot out here, and there is little relief to be found outside of the sparkling turquoise water.
On an island full of gorgeous spots and incredible views, this gem is often overlooked by those who don't own (or have access to) a boat but it definitely deserves a spot on your Oahu bucket list.
If you aren’t able to visit before summer slips away, don't worry — this dreamy destination is a must-visit year round, though the water can be a little chilly during the winter months (if you’re acclimated to Hawaiian waters, that is).
Have you ever visited this stunning slice of paradise? Share your experiences with us in the comments below, and then head on over to our Hawaii Nature Lovers Facebook group to share your favorite photos of Hawaii with us.
If you want to learn more about Kaneohe and all this great town has to offer, click here. It’s the ultimate day trip destination.
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