Content originally posted from my blog SUP Pacific. See the orginal Flat Island Paddle Here.
Flat Island, or Popoia Island, is a small islet off the windward east coast of Oahu that is home to the migratory seabird, the wedge-tailed shearwater.
The island is only located about 1/4 mile off from Kailua Beach Park. So, it makes the ideal destination for swimmers, paddlers, & kayakers looking for a quick & usually safe place to visit.
The island is not volcanic, but is actually fossilized coral reef bed. It is a state seabird sanctuary so permits are required for visiting the island.
Popoia, which translates to “fish rot” in Hawaiian, was aptly named by the Hawaiians of old because it had a fishing heiau, or temple on it where fisherman would bring their fishing tribute as an offering to the gods.
Distance: 0.72 miles
Time: 1.5hrs
Difficulty: Intermediate
Best time: Low winds & Summertime
Parking: Free
Permit Required?: Yes
Coming from town, take the Pali Hwy (if it’s open!) into Kailua town via Kailua Rd. Follow Kailua Rd. As it takes a right and then a left towards the ocean.
Address: 526 Kawailoa Rd, Kailua, HI 96734
Parking is free at the beach park, but it fills up almost daily. As long as you arrive early, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding parking.
The island is located closer towards the Lanikai side of Kailua Beach Park, so parking by the boat ramp is the most preferable location.
There are bathrooms & showers in Kailua Beach Park.
There’s also numerous convenience stores within walking distance including Kalapawai Market.
If you need to rent gear or get permits, you can park at the beach park & walk to Kailua Beach Adventures to get what you need.
Being on the windy side of the islands means that the trade winds commonly pick up in the late morning & blow hard through the early afternoon. Usually these winds blow directly against the shore though, so if you make it to the island, coming back is usually a breeze.
Although the Kailua Beach is a mainly sandy beach; the area around flat island has a lot of shallow reef around it. On days when the tide is low, you will need to avoid the coral reef.
Always something to look out for while paddling or kayaking here. The Portuguese Man-Of-War is a polyp (actually more closely related to coral!) and are notorious on the windward side. Despite not actually being a jellyfish, the Portuguese Man-Of-War has long tendrils that have a nasty sting. If you get stung by one of these guys, rinse it in warm water and do not use white vinegar or urine!
