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Nature reserve · Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Kealakekua Bay
Protected bay on the Kona coast, a marine conservation area with a snorkel reef, spinner dolphins that often rest in the water and the white obelisk marking the spot where Captain James Cook died in 1779.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay is about 20 km south of Kailua-Kona, beneath a lava cliff that rises to about 180 meters. Before Europeans arrived, it was a political and religious center of the island, with the Hikiau temple on the south shore at Nāpōʻopoʻo.
British Captain James Cook anchored in the bay in January 1779. In February he returned to repair a mast, and a conflict with Hawaiians ended with his death on February 14 on the north shore at Kaʻawaloa. A white obelisk, erected in 1874, marks the spot.
The water in front of the obelisk is among the clearest on the island, with coral reef and many fish, and is part of a marine life conservation area. Spinner dolphins often use the bay to rest during the day; federal rules require a minimum distance and prohibit swimming behind them.
The monument can only be reached by sea, on boats or kayaks operated by authorized providers, or via the Kaʻawaloa trail, which descends about 400 meters over roughly 3 km each way, with no shade.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day for the boat or kayak tour with snorkeling; the same for the trail to the monument.
Best time
In the morning, when the sea is usually calm and the water clearer. The wind picks up in the afternoon. The trail is hot: start early.
How to get there
Take Highway 11 to Captain Cook and Nāpōʻopoʻo Road to the south shore, about 30 minutes from Kailua-Kona. Boats depart from Keauhou Harbor and from Kailua-Kona. The Kaʻawaloa trail starts on the road that descends from Highway 11.
Tip
Prefer authorized tours that land near the monument. On the water, watch dolphins from a distance and do not chase them.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kealakekua Bay
How do you get to Captain Cook’s monument in Kealakekua Bay?
By boat or kayak with permitted operators, or on foot via the Kaʻawaloa trail, which is steep and unshaded, about 3 km down and the same back up.
Can you see dolphins in Kealakekua Bay?
Spinner dolphins often rest in the bay during the day. Rules require a minimum distance and prohibit chasing them.
Can you rent a kayak to go to Kealakekua Bay?
Landings near the monument are controlled and allowed only for authorized operators. Check the rules before you go.