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Exploring Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park

Exploring Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park

Located on the Kona Coast, Kealakekua Bay, while a long way from Volcanoes National Park and our Big Island bed and breakfast, is, in many ways, the heart of the Big Island of Hawaii. With its deep, rich history, natural beauty, and role as a Marine Life Conservation District, it is a magical, must-visit destination during any vacation on the Big Island.

Visitors are often surprised by the complexity of the Big Island’s geography. Hawaii is blessed with a rich, diverse geography, from dense rainforest jungles to the rolling pastures of Kahuku and the harsh environments around the summit regions of the volcanoes. When most first-time guests dream of visiting the island, the scenic coastline of Kealakekua Bay comes to mind.

Put simply, while the volcanoes may be the beating heart of the Big Island, it is the beautiful crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay that is the Island’s crown jewel.

What is the significance of Kealakekua Bay?

From an historical perspective, the region is filled with relics of Hawaii’s cultural heritage from ancient villages to sacred temples. In addition, the Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park is located where English Captain James Cook became the first documented European to set foot on the island in 1778. It also is home to the Captain Cook Monument– a 27-foot white obelisk – marking the spot where he died a year later.

The significance of the Bay is more than the history of its people. As a Marine Life Conservation District, Kealakekua Bay plays a significant role in protecting marine life and coral. It is a paradise for boating and kayaking and even hiking, but above all it is a snorkeling wonderland with tropical native fish darting in, around and amongst the coral.

How do you get to Kealakekua Bay?

It’s at least a two-hour drive from our Hawaii B&B along the southern route on the Mamalahoa Highway. Most guests elect to stay in the Volcanoes area and then drive to Kona and stay in Kona to explore the area. If arriving first in Kona then you can explore the beach which is around a 30-minute drive south of town on your way to Volcanoes National Park.

On the Southern end of the bay is Manini Beach and the Kealakekua Bay Viewpoint. If you want to go to the Historical State Park, you can take boat or kayak tours or take the strenuous hike to see the natural beauty that awaits.

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park Beach Volcano Village

What Activities Can You Enjoy at Kealakekua Bay?

Visiting History

We’ve mentioned some of the history held within the confines of the state park. You can walk in the ill-fated footsteps of Cook and his crew and visit their monument. There is even a small plaque to mark the exact spot where Cook is believed to have died. There are cannons brought from Canada where Cook also explored, and a grove of coconut trees planted around the time the cannons were installed.

However, it’s important to note that the history of the site isn’t limited to the folly of a sea captain who fundamentally misunderstood the native people and his own capabilities.

Not far from the obelisk, back in the forest, are the ancient ruins of the village of Kaawaloa, a stark reminder of how much changed and how much was lost when the Europeans landed and brought dangerous diseases that greatly impacted the native people.

Hiking

The Captain Cook Monument Trail is not to be undertaken lightly. It’s a two-and-a-half-hour march from the trailhead to the monument. However, the trail beautiful with lava fields and patches of sugarcane and the snorkeling at the end – which we will get to in a bit – is world-renowned.

Dolphin Watching

The bay is considered one of the best spots on the island for dolphin watching. They are especially active in the bay in the morning. You’ll often see spinners – young dolphins spinning out of the water under their mother’s supervision. If you are in the water or kayaking, be careful not to disturb or bother the dolphins. Do not chase them. Their natural curiosity will likely bring them close. Rember it is illegal to chase, feed or touch marine mammals in the wild. It is best to enjoy their beauty from a safe distance for you and the dolphin.

Kayaking and Boating

Be aware, only licensed tour operators are allowed to lead kayaking groups across the bay. Be sure to verify any tour operator has the required license or your trip will be shorter than expected. Kayaking, surfing or paddleboarding in the bay also requires a permit. Make sure you have the proper documentation necessary. Also, there is a variety of boat tours that take guests across the bay for snorkeling or sight-seeing. Make sure your tour operator has the proper permits to take you into the bay for snorkeling and swimming.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is the premier activity in the bay. It is stepping – or swimming – into a beautiful underwater world that you can’t even really imagine. In addition to the dolphins, you’ll see schools of tropical fish and maybe the occasional green sea turtle. Remember the coral is seriously protected and endangered. If you’re accessing the water from Cook’s Monument or making your way to it, there are reefs to the right or left, just a few feet out. Be careful not to stand up on or even touch the coral.

Swimming

Remember, while the bay is one of the more protected spots on the Island, it is still a powerful ocean. Once you get past the rocky point, the tide is stronger as are the channel currents. Be aware, always, of the condition of the bay and stay close to the shoreline. If at any time you feel conditions changing for the worse, take a break and assess the situation.

When is the best time to visit Kealakekua Bay?

The snorkeling is best in the morning as the wildlife – including the aforementioned dolphins – are more active and the waters tend to be calmer. However, others will say the best time is the afternoon when there is more sunlight. Whatever time it is, however, do not enter the waters unless they are calm.

If you’re talking time of year, the warm weather months from May through October are the best as the water is warm and clear.

What should you bring to Kealakekua Bay?

It depends on the type of adventure you’re after. If you’re sailing across the bay on a large boat with hundreds of guests and dinner service, bring your appetite and maybe a good pair of binoculars.

Many of the snorkeling tours will rent the necessary equipment but definitely consult with your tour before setting out for the day. Don’t just assume everything you’ll need is included in the base price.

A water protected camera like a Go-Pro is perfect for some underwater photography in what may well be the most beautiful place on Earth. You’ll also want water shoes or sandals that don’t come off easily for walking on the rocky areas. Make sure that your sunscreen is reef-safe and safe for marine life.

If you’re hiking in, proper shoes are a necessity as well as drinking water and the necessary equipment to once you reach the water is you plan to snorkel or swim.

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In a place filled with must-see destinations, Kealakekua Bay sits at the pinnacle. It is the place where the magic of Hawaii is at its peak.

Book your stay with us today and start planning your trip to Kealakekua Bay from our romantic rainforest retreat.