Mokuauia (Goat Island)
A unique island sanctuary accessible by foot at low tide, offering serene beaches and abundant seabirds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Walk across the ocean floor
Mokuauia (Goat Island)
Best Time
Walk across the ocean floor
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique island sanctuary accessible by foot at low tide, offering serene beaches and abundant seabirds.
"Walk across the ocean floor to a peaceful island sanctuary, memorable day and night."
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for the rocky seabed when walking to the island. Protect your feet!
⏰ Check Tide Charts
Crucial for safe access. Only walk during low tide.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Low Tide Causeway
Connecting mainland to Mokuauia
Walk across the ocean floor during low tide to reach this unique island sanctuary.
Seabird Sanctuary
Mokuauia Island
Observe diverse native seabirds in their protected natural habitat.
Serene West Side Beach
West side of Mokuauia
Enjoy a peaceful beach experience with calm waters and beautiful views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Walk
Respecting the Sanctuary
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for the rocky seabed when walking to the island. Protect your feet!
⏰ Check Tide Charts
Crucial for safe access. Only walk during low tide.
☀️ Sunscreen & Bug Spray
Protect yourself from the sun and potential insects.
🚫 Respect Wildlife
It's a seabird sanctuary; do not disturb nesting birds.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for the rocky seabed when walking to the island. Protect your feet!
⏰ Check Tide Charts
Crucial for safe access. Only walk during low tide.
☀️ Sunscreen & Bug Spray
Protect yourself from the sun and potential insects.
🚫 Respect Wildlife
It's a seabird sanctuary; do not disturb nesting birds.
🌃 Memorable Night Visits
The island offers a unique experience after dark.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mokuauia (Goat Island) offers a unique experience, particularly its accessible walk during low tide and its role as a serene seabird sanctuary. Visitors appreciate the peaceful beaches and the memorable nighttime ambiance. However, caution is advised due to sharks in the surrounding waters and the rocky terrain, making proper footwear essential.
"6/23 Rest in piece Tamayo Perry. This island aka Goat Island is surrounded by sharks, don't swim too far in this area"
Al
"You can walk to the island at low tide..wearing shoes. A serene beach on west side and a perimeter trail for exploring. Memorable at night. Shallow water and poor diving. Sun block & bug repellent. Usually windy."
Paul Dietz
""
Mike Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mokuauia is accessible by walking across the ocean floor during low tide. Always check tide charts beforehand to ensure safe passage.
No, you cannot drive to Mokuauia (Goat Island). Access is primarily by walking during low tide.
Parking is available in the nearby town of Kaaawa. From there, you'll walk to the shoreline to access the island at low tide.
The most common and recommended approach is to walk during low tide. Be prepared for a rocky walk.
While not as common as walking, some private boat tours might visit the area. However, the primary access method is the low tide walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit Mokuauia. It is a natural sanctuary accessible to the public.
Mokuauia is accessible during daylight hours, with special mention of its memorable nighttime experience. Access is dependent on low tide.
There is no entrance fee for Mokuauia (Goat Island). It is a public access area and a protected sanctuary.
The best time to visit is during low tide, which allows you to walk to the island. Check tide charts for optimal times.
As a seabird sanctuary, visitors are asked to respect the wildlife and stay on designated trails. Avoid disturbing nesting birds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the serene west side beach, explore the perimeter trail, and observe seabirds. It's also noted for its memorable nighttime visits.
The water is generally shallow and reviewers mention poor diving conditions. It's more suited for wading and enjoying the beach.
Mokuauia is a seabird sanctuary, so expect to see various native seabirds.
While the beach is serene, the surrounding waters can have sharks, so caution is advised, especially for children.
Bring sunscreen, bug repellent, water shoes, and plenty of water. Pack out all trash.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique low tide walk, the serene beaches, and the native seabirds. Nighttime offers opportunities for astrophotography.
The island's location offers beautiful coastal views, making it a good spot for sunrise and sunset photography, especially with the unique causeway.
Drone usage may be restricted in protected wildlife areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful. However, the unique low tide access is a key photographic element.
The causeway during low tide, the west side beach, and any vantage points offering views of the seabirds are excellent for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
🌌 Stargazers & Night Owls
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Low Tide Causeway
Beyond the practicalities, the low tide walk offers fantastic photographic opportunities. The contrast of the exposed seabed against the ocean and island creates dramatic scenes. Remember that tide times can fluctuate, so flexibility is key. Some visitors have noted that the depth can vary, so be prepared for shallow wading and potentially deeper sections depending on the exact tide and your path. This unique access transforms a simple island visit into an engaging exploration.
Respecting the Seabird Sanctuary
It's important to maintain a respectful distance from the birds and refrain from feeding them. Feeding wildlife can disrupt their natural diets and behaviors. Remember that the island's charm lies in its natural state, and responsible tourism ensures it remains a haven for these birds for generations to come. Pack out everything you pack in, leaving no trace of your visit, to help maintain the pristine condition of this important sanctuary.
Nighttime Magic and Safety
However, nighttime visits come with inherent risks. The lack of artificial lighting means navigating the island and the causeway can be challenging. Flashlights or headlamps are essential for safety. Be extra cautious when walking on the rocky seabed, as visibility is significantly reduced. While the island itself is serene, reviewers also caution about the presence of sharks in the surrounding waters, a general concern for many Hawaiian coastal areas. Visitors should exercise extreme caution and avoid swimming too far out, especially at night.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit