Captain Cook Monument

The Basics

Admission to the state historical park is free, and many visitors come to take advantage of the area’s black rock beaches and the excellent snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and dolphin-watching opportunities just off the Kona coast in Kealakekua Bay. Popular tour options include sailing the bay in Zodiac rafts, outrigger canoes, and on lunch or dinner cruises; the monument can be spotted from the water.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Captain Cook Monument is a must-see for history buffs.

• Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you’re planning to spend time out on the water.

• Tours of Kealakekua Bay tend to last from three to five hours.

• Historical lunch and dinner cruises are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

The monument and state historical park are situated 12 miles (19 kilometers) south of Kailua-Kona on the western coast of the Big Island. The easiest way to get there is by private car or on an organized tour.

When to Get There

The park is open during daylight hours. For the best snorkeling conditions just offshore from the monument, book a snorkel tour first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon when fewer people will be in the water.

The Life and Death of Captain Cook

Captain James Cook first landed in Hawaii in 1778 on the island of Kauai, marking the first contact between British explorers and Native Hawaiians. He returned to the islands late in 1778, landing at Kealakekua Bay, where he was welcomed and treated as a god. He set sail again in 1779, but was forced to return to repair a broken mast. After Hawaiians snatched one of Cook’s small boats, Cook attempted to capture the Hawaiian king and was stabbed and bludgeoned to death. His memorial is controversial, as some locals see it as a tribute to an invader and a historical moment that would forever change the character of Hawaii.

Ways to explore

There are only two ways to approach the Captain Cook Monument: by hiking along the coast or from the water. On foot, set out along the Captain Cook Monument Trail, a 3.7-mile (6-kilometer) there-and-back trail of moderate difficulty that slopes gently down into the bay; climbing back up is the tricky bit.

Alternatively, set sail along the Kailua-Kona Coast for a scenic boat cruise, enjoy swimming and snorkeling by the monument, and perhaps spot wild dolphins in the bay. Active types can also explore the bay by kayak or outrigger canoe, or glimpse the monument from above on a helicopter tour.

Accessibility

While the hiking trail is not accessible for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility, many boat tours are wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None, but the hiking trail and kayaking tours may not be suitable for younger children.

What to pack

Camera, sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, swimsuit, towel, plenty of water and snacks for hiking, snorkel and mask

What to wear

Lightweight, breathable clothing or swimwear, hiking boots or sturdy sneakers

Not allowed

Be respectful of local opinion when discussing the Captain Cook Monument; the controversial landmark also marks the moment when foreigners arrived in Hawaii, changing island culture forever.

Amenities

None; bring everything you need with you to Kealakekua Bay and pack up everything when you leave.

Address

The Captain Cook Monument is in the Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, about 12 miles (19 kilometers) south of Kailua-Kona on the west coast of the Big Island. There is no road access or public transportation to the monument.

Driving

The trailhead of the Captain Cook Monument Trail is located along State Highway 160 (Napoopoo Road) and can be reached by car. However, parking is limited, and it may be easier to book a private driver or join a guided tour.

Public transportation

The easiest way to reach the monument is by boat, and most tours set out from Keauhou Bay.

Best times to visit

The monument is quietest in the early morning, so make an early start to hike or paddle to the bay before the crowds get there—tour groups usually start arriving by mid-morning. Morning also typically offers the best visibility for snorkeling.

Best days to visit

Weekday tours from Monday through Thursday tend to draw fewer travelers; the area can get quite busy at times on Fridays and the weekends.

Best months to visit

May through August offers the best chance of spotting wild dolphins around the bay, though sightings are still possible year-round. For cooler weather with fewer crowds, come during the shoulder season, April–May or September–October.