Kealakekua

Kealakekua, Big Island

The historic town of Kealakekua is most famous for being the landing spot of Captain Cook, who sailed into Kealakekua Bay in January 1779 and was killed here a month later. A monument on the shore memorializes his death.

The town is surrounded by the 600-foot (183 m) high Pali Kapu o Keoua sea cliffs, where the royal ali'i (high chiefs) were buried in ancient Hawaii. At the base of the cliffs is Kealakekua Bay, one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in all of Hawaii.

A declared Marine Life Conservation District, the bay is home to dolphins, sea turtles and a wide variety of other tropical fish. Kayaking and snorkeling to explore the bay are the two most popular activities here.

Key Features

South Kona setting: Upland town above Kealakekua Bay

Historic bay: Linked to Captain James Cook's 1779 arrival and death

Marine conservation: Kealakekua Bay is a protected Marine Life Conservation District

Captain Cook Monument: White shoreline monument across the bay at Kaawaloa

Cultural sites: Near Napoopoo Beach Park and Hikiau Heiau

Activity fit: Good area for snorkeling, scuba diving, boat tours and sightseeing

Population: 2,307 at the 2020 Census

Zip code: 96750

Plan Your Visit

Plan Kealakekua with both history and ocean safety in mind. Check bay access rules, parking, permitted vessel requirements, surf conditions and tour availability before heading down to the shoreline.

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Visitor Reviews

Reviews and Ratings

Read visitor comments for Kealakekua. These comments do not include star ratings, so they are not included in the average rating.

Add Your Review

Tom Campbell

Tue May 14, 2019

There are two roads down to the bay, one windy, the other not so much. My wife couldn't handle the first so we came back on another day and she had no problems. Once there the views are spectacular. The next day I took a rigid rafter to the bay and did some amazing snorkeling. Also not to be missed is the national park, the Place of Refuge, just up the road.

Location and Directions

Kealakekua is located in South Kona on the Big Island's west side, along Mamalahoa Highway above Kealakekua Bay. From Kailua-Kona, drive south on Highway 11 toward Kainaliu, Kealakekua and Captain Cook. The marker is placed near the town center rather than down at the bay.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kealakekua on the Big Island?

Kealakekua is in South Kona on the Big Island's west side. The town sits along Mamalahoa Highway above Kealakekua Bay, south of Kailua-Kona and near Captain Cook.

What is Kealakekua known for?

Kealakekua is known for South Kona history, Kealakekua Bay, the Captain Cook Monument, coffee-country scenery and access to snorkeling and boat tours.

Is Kealakekua Bay good for snorkeling?

Yes. Kealakekua Bay is one of the Big Island's best-known snorkeling areas when ocean conditions are safe. The clearest reef areas are often reached by permitted or guided boat access.

Can visitors drive directly to the Captain Cook Monument?

No. The Captain Cook Monument is across the bay from the main road access. Visitors usually see it by boat tour, permitted kayak access or the steep Kaawaloa Trail.

What towns are near Kealakekua?

Nearby towns include Captain Cook, Kainaliu and Honaunau. Together, these South Kona communities offer coffee farms, historic sites, small shops and coastal access points.