Kaneohe Bay Sandbar Tours

What to Bring to Kaneohe Bay Sandbar

Your complete packing list: essentials, extras, what tours provide, and what to leave behind

Credit: VELTRA / HawaiiActivities.com

Swimsuit: Wear it under your clothes. You will be in the water most of the time.
Reef-safe sunscreen: Hawaii law prohibits sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. Look for mineral-based (zinc oxide) sunscreen labeled reef-safe. Apply 15 minutes before you arrive.
Towel: Most tours do not provide towels. Bring one for drying off after.
Water shoes or sport sandals: The harbor area and sandbar can have rocks and coral. Flip-flops work for the harbor but not in the water.
Cash: Some boats have onboard bars or snack purchases that are cash only. Bring $20 to $40 just in case.
Change of dry clothes: For the ride home. Leave these in your car.

Waterproof phone case: Essential for photos without risking your phone
GoPro or underwater camera: Great for snorkeling photos, especially if you spot sea turtles
Sunglasses with a strap: Polarized lenses are great for spotting fish and turtles

Rash guard or UV shirt: Better sun protection than sunscreen alone, especially for kids
Hat: There is limited shade on the sandbar itself
Motion sickness medication: If you are prone to seasickness, take Dramamine 30 minutes before departure. The boat ride is short (10 to 15 min) and the bay is calm, but better safe.

All tours provide: Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins) and life jackets for all ages.

🚫 Non-reef-safe sunscreen: Illegal in Hawaii and harmful to the coral reef
🚫 Glass bottles: Not allowed on any tour boat for safety
🚫 Valuables you cannot get wet: No dry storage guarantee on most boats
🚫 Drones: Restricted airspace near Marine Corps Base Hawaii. You will be asked to put it away.
🚫 Large coolers or chairs: No room on the boat and not needed at the sandbar

Now that you know what to pack, choose your tour and book:

All photos courtesy of HawaiiActivities.com / VELTRA Inc. Used with permission.