We did not hike down to the beach but drove to the State Park that looks across the bay to the Captain Cook Monument. It is clean, but poorly maintained. What signage there is, is so worn as to be barely readable. The tour guide states this is a location of great historical and cultural significance, but the current appearance suggests it matters very little. What a contrast between the wealth of commercial tourism and the condition of a public historic site.
My wife and I went on Body Glove’s Captain Cook Historical Sunset Dinner Cruise, which was very nice. On this Captain Cook Historical Cruise we experienced a journey back in time over 1000 years ago when ancient powerful Kings ruled the rugged Hawaiian Islands. One of our stops was Kealakekua Bay. Few other spots have as much historical meaning as Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island’s Kona Coast. This is where Captain James Cook (the British explorer who discovered the Hawaiian Islands in 1778) docked during his second voyage to the Hawaiian Islands in January 1779, and where he was tragically killed a month later in a conflict between his crew and the Hawaiians. In 1878, a 27-foot white obelisk was erected in his honor near the location where he was killed.
We went there twice during our trip and the snorkeling is fantastic. The first time we kayaked there and the second time we were brought by boat. Both times, the snorkeling was out of this world. I highly recommend a trip to this bay. It is well worth it!
We have been to Kealakekua Bay State historical park twice, in March 2009 and January 2015.Had a nice boat trip and exiting snorkeling ...as my friend made too close acquaintance with sea urchin :) all good that ends good:)Its a pity, we didnt see many dolphins or had a chance to swim with them, but i hope next time we come back- we will.We came to picnic area at around noon, and at that time its full of local people, all tables were occupied, but in about 20 minutes lunch time was over and we could choose whatever we liked. We had a nice birthday party here.Also, we walked a bit further for snorkeling. Its a rocky access, but not that bad. And as soon as you are in the water- theres all you need, water clear and you can enjoy the sea habitat close.The entrance fee to the park is small. May be some expect polished tables and recliners...no, its just wooden tables and benches, they might look worn out- but they stay outdoors, so give it some slack.If you drive by- just stopped here and enjoy .
The top of my bucket list was to swim with them ( in the wild) and I've gotten to do it here repeatedly
Some says the trail is only 1.8 miles one way, but it really felt like 3 miles OW with 1500ft elevation difference from end to end. Walking on the dirt path with small rocks and fallen leaves was not easy. We survived the hike with 2 toddlers (2 and 4), but it was REALLY hard. Bring enough water, wear proper shoes, and sun protection (exposed trail). It has the clearest water in Big Island to snorkel. Lots of fishes and healthy corals. Come early to see the dolphins and beat the heat.
I often visit Kealakekua Bay when I am on the Big Island. The snorkelling is above average. You can explore Capt. Cook's monument. I've heard that the area roped off actually belongs to Australia. One of the most memorable events for me is when I saw 100 plus dolphins sleeping in the waters of Kealakekua Bay. What a beautiful site! You can find bottle nose dolphins all up the coast but to have them in the bay for such long period of time was a memory for life.
After visiting Greenwell Farms and The Kona Historical Society Museum, my wife and I wanted somewhere close by for a picnic lunch. We drove down the twisting Napoopoo Road to the park. At the parking lot there is space for about 20 cars. There are restrooms, a small grassy area with just one picnic table and some basketball hoops. The beach itself comprises huge pebbles with minimal sand. It was a great place to sit and appreciate the view. Sadly, the hoped-for dolphins did not make an appearance.
This is a very calm bay most of the time. You can rent a kayak at many local companies. Aloha and Kona Boys will give you a permit, which you need. We saw dozens of spinner dolphins, swimming right by our kayak, and jumping up to 15 feet out of the water. There is also great snorkeling near the Captain Cook monument.
Dolphins almost every day. One of the most amazing snorkeling sites I have ever visited.We rented a kayak and spent 4 o 5 hours non-stop. Dolphins are amazing creatures and they seem to like you to be there. Coral and many many fish are also great to see with this amazing crystal-clear water.