Hawaii is comprised of eight major islands, several small islets, and numerous atolls extending approximately 1,500 miles across the Pacific Ocean. While most of these islands, islets, and atolls are uninhabited, unnamed, and impossible to gain access to, there is one unique islet off the coast of the Oahu that is not only relatively easy to visit but perfectly picturesque.
Nestled off of Oahu’s windward coast just a quarter-mile from Kailua Beach, Popoia Island is one of Oahu’s smallest offshore islands and measures in at just four acres.
Art La Flamme/Flickr
More commonly known as Flat Island, this tiny landmass certainly lives up to its name, but it is so much more than just a horizontally-oriented offshore island.
Eric Kb/Flickr
This islet is a popular resting spot for kayakers and a playground for surfers. Whether you’ve arrived via kayak or surfboard, you can land on the small strip of sand on the southwestern side of the island and explore for a while.
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
The island itself is home to jagged rock outcroppings, small sandy shores, and tide pools along the shore just waiting to be explored.
Nick/Flickr
Popoia was once home to an ancient Hawaiian fishing shrine where Hawaiians would offer fish meat to bring in good luck in fishing. In fact, Popoia translates from the Hawaiian language to “fish rot.”
Nick/Flickr
Though the shrine no longer exists, the islet is a State Seabird Sanctuary where several sinkholes are used by the wedge-tailed shearwater seabirds. An estimated 3,000 seabirds were living on the island in 2000.
Nick/Flickr
From Flat Island, you will have excellent views of the Pacific Ocean, Kailua and Lanikai Beaches, the Mokulua Islands, and Oahu’s eastern shore.
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
You’ll be seriously amazed by the crystalline waters and views found here. If you can, pack your camera or cell phone in a dry bag to take a few (dozen) photographs.
Townsend/Flickr
So, what are you waiting for? Rent a kayak from one of the nearby vendors, slather on the sunscreen, and bring a hat and plenty of water with you to explore this tiny little offshore island.
Shihmei Barger 舒詩玫/Flickr
Have you ever visited the striking Popoia Island? What about the nearby Mokolua Islands? Share your experiences with us in the comments below, and then join our Hawaii Nature Lovers Facebook group to share your favorite photographs and discover new natural oases to visit.
Art La Flamme/Flickr
Eric Kb/Flickr
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
Nick/Flickr
Townsend/Flickr
Shihmei Barger 舒詩玫/Flickr
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