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Kealakekua Bay Vacation Rentals

As the first landing site of Westerners on Hawaiʻi Island, as well as the place of Captain James Cook’s demise, the historical importance of Kealakekua Bay cannot be overestimated. This is not only an amazingly beautiful place, both above and below the water, but it is also of great significance. Consequently, many visitors to the Kona side consider this a must-see attraction. If you choose one of our great rentals here at Kealakekua Bay, you’ll get to enjoy this gorgeous place morning, noon, and night! Find out about your next Kealakekua Bay vacation home.

The snorkeling here is world-famous, and for good reason. However, there’s not really much beach to speak of, and getting in the water can be a bit difficult. Likewise, the very best snorkeling is near the Cook Monument (a little patch of British territory!) and cannot be accessed by car. It can be reached either on foot, via the steep and hot Kaʻawaloa Trail, or by kayak. Though you’ll find many individuals at the bay who want to rent you a kayak, be aware that only three companies are permitted by the state to conduct commercial kayak tours here. These are Adventures in Paradise, Aloha Kayak, and Kona Boys. All three can take you on guided tours to the Cook Monument. The best option for snorkeling in the bay is to hop on a snorkel tour boat such as Fair Wind; they’ll take you straight to the best spots.

Mornings at Kealakekua are calm and beautiful, and dolphins often enter the bay to rest in the early mornings. While they are exciting to watch, remember that they need their rest, and not to disturb them. Likewise, those offering dolphin swim tours are often harassing the animals. Please also bear in mind the need to use reef-safe sunscreen when venturing outside of our Kealakekua Bay vacation rentals for snorkeling or swimming.

Hiking to Kealakekua Bay

For the adventurous, the hike to Kealakekua Bay via the Ka’awaloa Trail can be a memorable experience. The trailhead can be found south of Kailua-Kona just off of Highway 11 on Nāpō’opo’o Road (Hwy. 160). Limited parking is available at a small, unmarked pull-off. Reconnect with nature as you meander down this 3.8-mile trail, observing the Big Island’s flora and fauna along the way. The trail begins with an old four-wheel drive road and is easy to follow with markers along the way. Once at the bay, you may be able to spot an X carved into lava rock, marking the spot where Captain Cook was killed in 1779. A plaque also denotes the spot, although it is often underwater. Heading left along the cliffs, the white Captain Cook monument now deeded to the United Kingdom sits at the water’s edge.

If you’ve brought along a snorkel, mask, and fins, the concrete jetty near the monument is a good entry point, although it should still be approached with caution. Once in the water, you’ll be treated to views of vibrantly colored tropical fish! This trek is best made in the early morning, with the hot and dry conditions of the Kona Coast and the physical vigor of the trek making for a tough combination. In addition, dolphin sightings are more likely to happen in the morning, and early hours also give you a better chance of avoiding tour groups.

Around the Area

The beautiful Kealakekua Bay is located near Captain Cook Town, putting conveniences within easy reach. The town of Captain Cook offers amenities such as restaurants, grocery stores, and coffee farms. Stop by the Kona Coffee Living History Farm for a unique historical and cultural encounter or taste test your way through the host of other coffee shops and farms located in the area!

Kealakekua Bay: a gorgeous treasure of the Kona Coast! Contact us to learn more about a Kealakekua Bay house rental.

Contact Us for Your Kealakekua Bay Vacation Home

At I Love Hawaii, we have a passion for the Hawaiian Islands and making sure visitors enjoy their island getaway to the fullest. With a wide range of vacation rentals available, among our listings, you will find luxurious resorts, gorgeous beachfront homes, and secluded tropical villas. Whether you’re headed to the Big Island of Hawai’i, Maui, Oahu, or Kauai, you will find our vacation rentals in all the best locations. Contact us today to book one of our Kealakekua Bay vacation rentals and to learn about activities int he area!