Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park
A historic bay offering unparalleled snorkeling with dolphins, vibrant coral, and a challenging hike to Captain Cook's monument.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic bay offering unparalleled snorkeling with dolphins, vibrant coral, and a challenging hike to Captain Cook's monument.
"The best snorkeling on the Big Island, feels like swimming in an aquarium tank!"
🤿 Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
Rentals can be pricey; bringing your own ensures comfort and saves money for more snorkeling adventures!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water!
The hike down is easy, but the 2-mile trek back up is steep and hot. Stay hydrated!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Captain Cook Monument
Shoreline of Kealakekua Bay
A historic landmark commemorating Captain James Cook's arrival and death. A must-see for history buffs.
World-Class Snorkeling
Kealakekua Bay
Vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, including spinner dolphins and colorful fish.
Scenic Coastal Hike
Captain Cook Monument Trail
A rewarding 2-mile hike down to the bay, offering stunning ocean views and a good workout.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Snorkel Gear & Hydration are Key
Respect the History & Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤿 Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
Rentals can be pricey; bringing your own ensures comfort and saves money for more snorkeling adventures!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water!
The hike down is easy, but the 2-mile trek back up is steep and hot. Stay hydrated!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The parking area fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Aim to arrive before 10:30 AM.
🐬 Respect Marine Life
Observe dolphins and other marine animals from a distance. Never touch or feed them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤿 Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
Rentals can be pricey; bringing your own ensures comfort and saves money for more snorkeling adventures!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water!
The hike down is easy, but the 2-mile trek back up is steep and hot. Stay hydrated!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The parking area fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Aim to arrive before 10:30 AM.
🐬 Respect Marine Life
Observe dolphins and other marine animals from a distance. Never touch or feed them.
🗑️ Leave No Trace
Pack out everything you pack in, and consider picking up any litter you find to help preserve this special place.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kealakekua Bay is overwhelmingly praised for its world-class snorkeling, abundant marine life including dolphins, and the historical significance of the Captain Cook Monument. Visitors highlight the stunning beauty of the bay and the rewarding nature of the hike, though the steep return trek is a common point of caution. Many emphasize the importance of respecting the environment and historical site.
"Beautiful place! The views are incredible and the hike along the coast was amazing!
Very recommended to everybody who is around the are"
Zoya Sachakov
"Wonderful monument, and beautiful view. I'm sure at times this area is available for snorkeling, but it was quite a dangerous with waves crashing hard all around. However, there is a private beach nearby that llows public access that has safe snorkeling and a wonderful walk!"
maya gonzalez
"The best snorkeling on the Big Island. Respect the water, land, and people - clean up after yourself and clean other trash you see. This is a significant historic site that needs to be preserved, so make sure you leave the area better than you found.
Spinner Dolphins in the bay right next to you as you swim and whales (Mid-January) off the coast. Many variations of fish and feels as if you are in an aquarium tank."
Connor Nation
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to access Kealakekua Bay is by hiking the Captain Cook Monument Trail, which starts from the parking area off Napo'opo'o Road. Kayaking or taking a boat tour are other popular options.
Yes, there is a parking area near the trailhead for the Captain Cook Monument Trail. However, it fills up very quickly, so arriving early is highly recommended.
No, you cannot drive directly to the monument. Access is either by hiking the steep trail or by boat tour.
Many visitors opt for a snorkeling tour by boat, which often includes gear and takes you directly to the best spots. Alternatively, hiking down the trail and snorkeling from the shore is also excellent.
The hike down to the bay is steep and challenging, making it difficult for those with mobility issues. Boat tours may offer better accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park itself. However, some activities like boat tours or kayak rentals will have associated costs.
The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check local advisories for any temporary closures or changes.
Parking at the trailhead is typically free, but space is limited and fills up very early.
Yes, you can bring your own kayak, but launching and landing may be restricted in certain areas to protect the marine environment. Check with park authorities for current regulations.
Visitors are asked to respect the historical significance of the site and the natural environment. Invasive species removal events are sometimes held to preserve the bay.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The area around the Captain Cook Monument is renowned for its exceptional snorkeling, with vibrant coral and abundant fish. Spinner dolphins are frequently spotted here.
Expect to see a wide variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, moray eels, and spinner dolphins. Whales are also sometimes seen offshore in the winter months.
The 2-mile hike down is relatively easy, but the 2-mile return hike up is steep and can be challenging, especially in the heat.
Restroom facilities are available at the trailhead parking area, but not directly at the bay itself.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear, and bring a hat and reef-safe sunscreen. A rash guard is recommended for sun protection while snorkeling.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food vendors or restaurants directly within Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park. It's best to bring your own snacks and drinks.
The nearby town of Kealakekua has local eateries, including Teshima's Restaurant, a historic landmark serving Hawaii for nearly a century.
Picnicking is allowed, but visitors are strongly encouraged to pack out all trash and food waste to help maintain the pristine condition of the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic coastal hike offers stunning panoramic views. The Captain Cook Monument itself, the vibrant underwater world while snorkeling, and the dolphins are prime subjects.
Yes, but be mindful of the terrain. A secure camera bag and careful footing are recommended. Waterproof cameras are ideal for capturing underwater shots.
Early morning and late afternoon offer beautiful soft light for photography. Mid-day can be harsh but is excellent for capturing the bright colors of the marine life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with younger children or those concerned about the strenuous hike, consider booking a boat tour. Many tours offer snorkeling excursions directly to the bay, bypassing the challenging trail. If you do hike, ensure children are well-hydrated and prepared for the uphill return. Bringing kid-friendly snacks and plenty of water is a must.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you're looking to save on transportation, consider carpooling if you're traveling with others. Alternatively, some local bus routes might get you close to the area, but check schedules carefully. Packing your own food and drinks is also key, as there are no facilities within the park.
💑 Couples & Adventure Seekers
Consider renting a kayak for a more intimate exploration of the bay, allowing you to paddle at your own pace and discover hidden coves. The stunning sunset views from the coastline after a day of exploration can also make for a perfect romantic end to the day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Kealakekua Bay
During ancient times, the bay was a center for the Makahiki festival, a season of peace and abundance dedicated to the god Lono. This historical context adds a layer of cultural depth to the natural beauty of the bay, making it more than just a snorkeling spot. Understanding this history enhances the visitor's appreciation for the land and its people.
Snorkeling and Marine Life Encounters
One of the most magical encounters at Kealakekua Bay is the presence of spinner dolphins. These intelligent creatures often rest and play in the calm waters of the bay during the day. While it's crucial to observe them from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their natural behavior, seeing them glide through the water is an unforgettable experience. In the winter months, humpback whales can also be spotted offshore.
For the best snorkeling, it's recommended to bring your own gear as rentals can be costly. The water depth varies, with shallow areas near the shore quickly dropping off to deeper sections, so snorkelers of all levels can find enjoyable spots. Remember to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral ecosystem.
The Captain Cook Monument Trail
Hikers are advised to start early in the morning to avoid the intense midday sun and heat. Wearing appropriate footwear, such as hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers, is essential due to the uneven terrain. The trail can be dusty, so consider wearing a bandana or mask if you're sensitive to dust.
Despite the physical demands, many visitors find the hike well worth the effort for the incredible snorkeling and historical significance of the destination. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the bay and the stunning scenery make it a memorable part of the Kealakekua Bay experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit