One Of Hawaii’s Smallest Offshore Islets Is Also One Of The Most Unique

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.

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.

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.

The island itself is home to jagged rock outcroppings, small sandy shores, and tide pools along the shore just waiting to be explored.

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."

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.

From Flat Island, you will have excellent views of the Pacific Ocean, Kailua and Lanikai Beaches, the Mokulua Islands, and Oahu’s eastern shore.

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.

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.

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.

Megan Shute

With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.