The Waikiki Resort’s Guide to Exploring Chinaman’s Hat

Perched just off of the coast of the historic town of Kāneʻohe, Oahu — and just a few minutes from scenic Kailua, home to many shops and restaurants — lies the iconic Chinaman's Hat. Known locally as Mokoliʻi, this tiny island gets you off the beaten path on your next Honolulu vacation and offers unique adventures for everyone, whether you're seeking something in the surf or the turf.

 

Where is Chinaman's Hat (also known as Mokoliʻi)?

Mokoliʻi was once a part of the island of Oahu. The erosive nature of the ocean's surf and tides separated it from Oahu centuries ago, thus forming a tiny, lush island just off of Kāneʻohe Beach. 

The island's name refers to "little moʻo," or "little lizard" in Native Hawaiian, tracing back to an ancient legend of how the Mokoliʻi lizard was defeated by Hiʻiaka, the Hawaiian goddess of sorcery, hula dancing, and chanting. Today, some refer to it as Chinaman's Hat due to its shape, although the Hawaii government has attempted to make it law that people only use the island's original Hawaiian name. 

 

How to Get to Chinaman's Hat / Mokoliʻi Island From Waikiki

It's a short 45-minute drive from the centrally located Waikiki Resort Hotel and the Waikiki Strip:

  • As you leave Waikiki, follow the freeway signs to I-H-1 West.
  • Merge on to HI-63 W and HI-83 W.
  • Continue on HI-83 W until you see signs for Kualoa Ranch on your left and Kualoa Regional Beach Park on your right (you'll immediately see Mokoliʻi on the horizon).

 

The Best Activities on Chinaman's Hat / Mokoliʻi Island

Enjoy a wide variety of activities on Mokoliʻi, and bring home bragging rights that you did a Hawaiian adventure that many visitors don't even know about.

 

Get to Mokoliʻi Itself

Some choose to walk out to the island during low tide, but this can be treacherous as the tides change and the currents can be strong. Instead, rent a kayak from the many vendors in Kāneʻohe (and read up on proper kayaking safety rules for the whole family) and take a 40-minute paddling trip to Chinaman's Hat.

 

Hike Mokoliʻi

Hawaii has some of the world's best hikes, whether it's the breathtaking views of Diamond Head, stunning waterfall hikes near Honolulu, or even accessible, kid-friendly hikes across Oahu. Mokoliʻi is no exception:

  • Total Hiking Distance: 1/3 mile
  • Difficulty Level: It's technically rated as moderate, but you're in the sun and hiking a steep 206-feet elevation gain — some visitors rate it as moderate-difficult or difficult (thankfully, there are many scenic places to take a break and catch your breath).

  • Total Time: Plan to spend at least five hours in and out.

 

Snorkel and Dive Around Mokoliʻi

The reef around the island is the perfect chance to go snorkeling and take in Hawaii's pristine waters without all the crowds of Oahu's busier beaches:

  • As always, be ocean-aware and be mindful of waves, tides, and underwater obstacles like coral and sharp rocks.
  • Remember that you'll need to wade/swim over rocks for 15-20 feet before reaching the open ocean for diving.
  • Only go open-ocean swimming if you're a confident swimmer.

 

The Waikiki Resort Hotel is Your Gateway to Chinaman's Hat

When you stay at the Waikiki Resort Hotel, you're just a short drive from some of Oahu's biggest attractions like Mokoliʻi, all while still being surrounded by some of the best shops, restaurants, and nightlife that Honolulu has to offer. Visit us online or call us at 1-800-367-5116 to see why our location, friendly staff, convenience, and amenities give us top ratings among our guests.