Hike, kayak or take a boat cruise to the monument celebrating the life of the famous British explorer.

Captain James Cook was the British naval explorer who first brought Europeans to the Hawaiian Islands in 1778. Upon his return a year later, the Hawaiians killed him at the picturesque Kealakekua Bay. A century after he first reached the island, a 27-foot (8-meter) tall monument was erected in his honor. Today the monument is a popular destination for history fans and adventurers alike.

Situated in a remote bay, the monument isn’t easy to reach. The spire stands alone against a rocky cliff, and must be reached by hiking or by sea. Get up early and rent a kayak, the most popular method for reaching the monument. Those who arrive early enough have the chance to see dolphins playing in water nearby, or the iconic Hawaiian sea turtles that the area is known for. You can rent a kayak on the Hawaii Belt Road prior to the turnoff to the bay.

Chartered boats are also available in the area and offer a relaxing alternative to kayaking. Many of these tour operators include lunch in the program. Jump off the boat to experience the excellent snorkeling opportunities. Kealakekua Bay is a marine sanctuary and so fishing is prohibited.

Trek across the rugged landscape to reach the monument by land. The 4.25-mile (7-kilometer) hike takes you through stunning scenery. Reaching the monument is a rewarding experience. Be sure to bring your swimming costume because after this hike you’ll want to cool off in the water.

Kealakekua Bay is located approximately 30 minutes by car from Kailua-Kona. Parking is available at Napo’opo’o Beach, from where you can choose to travel on foot or by boat to reach the monument. There is no fee to visit the Captain Cook Monument.

Plan a trip to see Captain Cook Monument

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Kona Islander Vacation Club

Historic Kailua Village

Save 100% on your flight

￥89,865

per person

Apr 13 - Apr 18

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Honolulu (HNL) to Kailua-Kona (KOA)

7/10 Good! (333 reviews)

Staff was great but it was a real process getting the correct password for our wifi. It was just out of date and they had to contact the rental company over in Maui. Otherwise we had a nice time!

Reviewed on Dec 28, 2025

Kona Reef, A Raintree Vacation Club Resort

Historic Kailua Village

￥128,924

per person

Apr 13 - Apr 18

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Honolulu (HNL) to Kailua-Kona (KOA)

8.6/10 Excellent! (458 reviews)

Overall, our accommodation was quite good! The room facilities were a bit outdated, and the bathroom sink was a little small for a family of three. Room B23 had a great view, overlooking the ocean, trees, and beach. The kitchen stove was convenient for preparing simple meals. The washing machine and dryer came with laundry detergent, which was very convenient for doing laundry – a real necessity in Hawaii! The beds were comfortable, and the sofa bed was also quite comfortable. The downsides: the housekeeper only cleaned the room once, and for the rest of the time, we had to request towels and other necessities from the office. There were some small cockroaches in the room, but I think this is unavoidable due to the climate of Hawaii.

Reviewed on Dec 29, 2025

OUTRIGGER Kona Resort and Spa

Kahaluu-Keauhou

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￥125,427

per person

Apr 13 - Apr 18

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Honolulu (HNL) to Kailua-Kona (KOA)

8.6/10 Excellent! (1,004 reviews)

Great staff, good location

Reviewed on Jan 26, 2026

Reviews of Captain Cook Monument

4.4

Top Destination

5 - Excellent

191

4 - Good

120

3 - Okay

39

2 - Disappointing

1

1 - Terrible

1

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Did the sunset supper cruise with body glove. Very good time. Staff was very helpful and friendly.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

This is a long and intense walk, be prepared!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

The only way to get here is by boat or by being able to swim about a mile from the Place of Refuge. The secluded location keeps tourists away which in turn protects the reef. As such, if you desire to see this spot, book a tour and prepare to be awed by the coral formations and variety of creatures. During our tour, we say dolphins on the ride out. At the Monument, we saw turtles, eels, nice coral and many fish.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Must see for anyone visiting Kona.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Great snorkeling

5/5 - Excellent

Victoria

Go on a snorkeling trip to Captain Cook, it’s phenomenal!

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