Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park (Captain Cook Monument)
Kealakekua, Kona
The Bay Where Captain Cook Landed, Reached by Trail or Guided Kayak
Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park includes Nāpōʻopoʻo, Hikiau Heiau and Kaʻawaloa Flats, where the Captain Cook Monument stands; the state notes it was the site of first extensive Hawaiian-Western contact, with Cook's arrival in 1779. The park is open daily 7 AM to 8 PM and has no entrance fee, though the state page does not give a parking price. Restrooms are only at Nāpōʻopoʻo.
The state describes two ways to reach Kaʻawaloa Flats: hike the historic Kaʻawaloa Trail down from the uplands (pack out trash; no restrooms on the trail), or take a guided kayak tour from a permitted vendor. All vessels need a State Parks permit to transit the bay, renters should confirm the vessel is permitted, launching from Nāpōʻopoʻo wharf is prohibited, and the state asks visitors not to go onto Hikiau Heiau. The state page lists Kona Boys and Adventures in Paradise as guided-kayak vendors, but gives no trail length, difficulty or swimming conditions.
Why Roamwise recommends this
One of Hawaiʻi Island's most important historic sites — but the monument takes planning to reach.
Best for: history, snorkeling and kayaking trips, and a morning on the bay.
Insider tip: book a permitted guided kayak or snorkel cruise rather than launching your own; trail length and conditions aren't on the state page, so confirm before hiking.
- Hazards / conditions:
- Trail length, difficulty and swimming conditions are not given on the state page; the bay is a protected marine area.
- Safety notes:
- Parking price and trail details are not on the state page; DLNR's 10/8/26 notices do not list this park as closed.
- Cost:
- No entrance fee; the state page lists no parking price. (checked October 2026)
Reviews: Google MapsYelp
Local tips
- •No entrance fee
- •open daily 7 AM–8 PM
- •restrooms only at Nāpōʻopoʻo.
- •Reach the monument by the Kaʻawaloa Trail or a permitted guided kayak tour.
- •All vessels need a State Parks permit
- •don't launch from Nāpōʻopoʻo wharf.
- •Don't walk on Hikiau Heiau.
Save places as you browse, then plan a trip built around your list.
View saved places →