The 8-metre tall Captain Cook Monument commemorates the British naval explorer, who brought the first Europeans to Hawaii in 1778. When he returned to Hawaii Island some weeks later, he was killed in a fight with the local population after one of his boats was taken. The monument was built 100 years after this terrible event at the site in Kealakekua Bay where he perished.
The monument, a white obelisk, is in a remote location against a rocky cliff in the bay. It can only be reached by hiking or from across the water. Kayaking is one of the most popular means of reaching this spot. You can hire a kayak on the Hawaii Belt Road, situated before the turnoff to Kealakekua Bay. If you set out early, you may be lucky enough to spot the famous Hawaiian sea turtles, or the pods of dolphins that visit these waters.
If you prefer a more relaxing experience, many operators offer the option of chartered boat tours, some including lunch and refreshments onboard. This is also the perfect platform for a snorkelling excursion to discover the tropical fish and coral in the bay’s clear waters. As Kealakekua Bay is a Marine Life Conservation District in which fishing is prohibited, you’ll find the waters teeming with life.
Alternatively, you can reach the Captain Cook Monument across land. The 7-kilometre trek will take you through stunning, rugged landscapes. This is a rewarding experience in itself. Once you reach the monument, you can rest and refuel at the picnic area and cool off in the blue waters of the bay.
Kealakekua Bay is best reached by car. It is approximately 30 minutes’ drive from Kailua-Kona. There are parking spaces at Napo’opo’o Beach at the southern end of Kealakekua Bay. You can then complete the journey to the monument on foot or by sea. No fee is charged to visit the Captain Cook Monument.
