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Captain James
Cook Monument
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PHOTOS |
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Click on a thumbnail to
see a larger version of the photo |
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OVERVIEW |
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On January 17,
1779, Captain James Cook and his crew docked
on Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island, amidst
a religious local festival. The Hawaiians,
thinking they were returning gods, gave them
a warm welcome and held feasts in their
honor. After a while, they realized Cook and
his men were mere mortals and killed him on
the very spot where they arrived. Today, a
monument stands on Kealakekua to recall the
day Cook set foot on Hawaii and made it
known to the world.
The Captain Cook Monument is a major
landmark on the Kona Coast. Rising up
against the sky, the tall white spire
strikes a beautiful contrast against its
natural surroundings—the rugged ground, the
high cliffs, and the rich vegetation in the
distance. A plaque rests on the base of the
structure, telling the story of his arrival
and death on the islands.
The monument faces the bay to the east and
is a popular meeting place for tourists.
From here, you can reach several entry
points into the water and go swimming,
diving, or snorkeling. The bay is home to
one of the best underwater scenes on the
island, with colorful reefs and a large
marine ecosystem thriving in its depths.
Captain Cook Monument can only be reached on
foot or via water. Kayaking is a great way
to reach the area, as it takes you on a
long, scenic route along the bay. There is
also a snorkel cruise to Kealakekua, a
four-hour trip that takes you around the
coast and stops at the best reef spots. |
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DIRECTIONS |
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Unfortunately you cannot simply drive to
Captain Cook - this remote location is only
accessible by water or hiking trail. Most
visitors opt to rent a Kayak and paddle
across the scenic bay to the Captain Cook
Monument. Others prefer to join a guided
tour of Kealakekua Bay aboard one of the
many snorkeling tours .
If you are
launching your kayak or just want a scenic
drive to Kealakekua Bay, take the Hawaii
Belt Road South from
Kailua-Kona. You will see signs for
Kealakekua Bay to your left and then the
road winds down to the wharf and Napoopoo
beach. There is parking right at the wharf,
but no kayak or gear rentals here. You can
rent Kayaks on the Hawaii Belt Road just
before you turn off to Kealakekua Bay. |
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HIKING
INFORMATION |
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Click Here For Hiking |
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