Just offshore from the white sands of Lanikai Beach, two green islets rise from the turquoise waters of Oʻahu’s windward coast. Known as Nā Mokulua—often called the “Mokes”—the islands are treasured Lanikai landmarks and protected habitat for native wildlife.
Moku Nui and Moku Iki
The two islets form the Mokulua Islets Seabird Sanctuary. Moku Nui is the larger, northern island; Moku Iki is the smaller island to the south. They are visible from Lanikai Beach, the shoreline of Kailua and the nearby ridgelines.
Though their silhouettes are familiar in photographs of Lanikai, these islands are more than a scenic backdrop: both provide nesting habitat for native seabirds and are managed by the Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR).
Protected Wildlife and Native Coastal Plants
Wedge-tailed shearwaters, known in Hawaiian as ʻuaʻu kani, nest on both islands. Other native seabirds and shorebirds may be seen nearby. Hawaiian monk seals can also rest on the shoreline; always give them ample space and avoid approaching or disturbing any wildlife.
Vegetation and nesting burrows are easily damaged. Staying out of protected interior areas helps safeguard the islands for the wildlife that depends on them.
Can You Visit the Mokulua Islands?
Public access to the sanctuary is restricted to areas below the high-water mark, subject to any additional posted or temporary closures. The islets are closed to visitors from sunset to sunrise. Fires, dogs, camping, tents, tarps and other structures are prohibited. Do not enter nesting habitat or cross sanctuary signs or barriers.
Commercial vessel access requires authorization; the state considers commercial landing permits for Moku Nui only. Regulations and temporary closures can change, particularly when protected wildlife is present. Before visiting, check the DLNR Oʻahu Offshore Islet Seabird Sanctuaries guide and follow all posted notices.
Kayaking and Ocean Safety
On calm days, experienced paddlers may kayak in the waters around the islands. However, trade winds, currents, breaking surf and rapidly changing conditions can make the crossing and return hazardous. Never assume that calm water near shore means conditions will remain suitable offshore.
Check the weather and ocean forecast, wear a properly fitted personal flotation device, stay clear of wildlife and protected habitat, and seek current local safety advice before heading out. Less experienced visitors can enjoy the view of Nā Mokulua safely from Lanikai Beach instead.
Flat Island (Popoiʻa): Kailua’s Offshore Seabird Sanctuary
Just offshore from Kailua Beach lies Popoiʻa, commonly known as Flat Island. Unlike the taller twin Mokulua Islands off Lanikai, this low-lying, approximately 3.67-acre islet is part of the familiar seascape of Kailua Bay.
Flat Island is a protected State Seabird Sanctuary. Its fragile habitat supports nesting wedge-tailed shearwaters (ʻuaʻu kani) and Bulwer’s petrels (ʻou), along with native coastal plants and other wildlife. Its flattened shape makes it easy to recognize from Kailua Beach.
Visiting Flat Island Responsibly
Visitors may view Popoiʻa from Kailua Beach or, when ocean conditions permit, paddle in the surrounding waters. Access to the island is restricted to areas below the high-water mark; do not enter vegetated or marked nesting areas. The sanctuary is closed from sunset to sunrise. Dogs, fires, camping, tents, tarps and other structures are prohibited. Commercial activities require the appropriate permit. Check current restrictions and temporary closures before visiting.
For sanctuary rules and wildlife information, consult the Hawaiʻi DLNR offshore islet sanctuary guide. Both Popoiʻa and Nā Mokulua deserve care and respect as important refuges for Hawaiʻi’s native seabirds.
Enjoy the View from Lanikai
One of the simplest ways to appreciate the Mokulua Islands is to watch the morning light move across them from the beach. Their changing colors and distinctive shapes have made them an enduring part of the Lanikai landscape.
Continue exploring our Lanikai Beach visitor guide, discover Lanikai history, or browse vacation rentals along the shores of Lanikai and Kailua Beach.
Visitor information: Access rules and ocean conditions may change. Consult DLNR and Hawaiʻi Ocean Safety for current information.