A GUIDE TO KEALAKEKUA BAY STATE HISTORICAL PARK
There is so much to discover on the Big Island of Hawaii and the best place to start is Kealakekua Bay, otherwise known as Captain Cook Monument. Filled with an immense amount of tropical plant and animal life, this bay should be at the top of your list of places to see on the Big Island of Hawaii.
The History Behind Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park
Kealakekua Bay is most commonly known for Captain Cook Monument. This landmark was erected after the controversial British explorer was killed in 1779. The park is also home to the Place of Refuge, another highly regarded snorkel destination for visitors, but that is located in another area and can be harder to reach due to the preservation and sacred site restrictions.
As noted, this Bay is a landmark of many different places of conflict and reverence. When visiting it is important to respect the reverence and sanctity of these sites and the roles they have played in ancient and contemporary native Hawaiian history.
The Best Activities of Kealakekua Bay
By far and away the most popular and interesting activity to embark on when visiting Kealakekua Bay is snorkeling. There are so many sites within the bay that are known for the amazing reefs which line the shallows. From the ever-popular reefs butting against Captain Cook’s Monument to the reserved marine life around Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau (Place of Refuge)– just a short boat trip from Kealakekua.
Plan your snorkel adventure to Kealakekua bay state historical park by booking with an accredited tour boat today!
The Plants and Animals of Kealakekua Bay
The biggest thing to note before looking to explore the rich plant and animal life of the bay, is to respect the Aina. This means to respect the land and all the natural world that inhabits it; a tenant so paramount to the preservation of Hawaii’s beauty.
You will notice during your time in Kealakekua Bay that the reefs are home to many tropical fish and marine plants. These range from coral and reef fish to spinner dolphins and sea turtles.
Plan Your Visit to Kealakekua Bay, State Historical Park
As mentioned, this bay is filled with a wealth of natural beauty. The deeper waters are home to pods of swimmer dolphins whereas the reefs that grace the shallows of Captain Cook Monument hold hundreds of tropical fish. No matter where you choose to drop in, as long as you either grab a spot aboard a boat or make sure to loop up with an experienced Kona guide– you’ll have an amazing time.