Answering the Call of the Water

Answering the Call of the Water – Your Three Paths to the Bay

Understanding the story of Kealakekua is the first step. The next is to experience its living presence. There are three primary ways to reach the pristine waters of Kaʻawaloa and the Captain Cook Monument, each offering a different perspective, a different challenge, and a different reward. Whether you choose the path of the adventurer, the paddler, or the voyager, each journey requires preparation and respect.

Path 1: The Adventurer's Pilgrimage – Hiking the Kaʻawaloa Trail

For the physically fit and adventurous at heart, there is no more rewarding way to reach the bay than by foot. The Kaʻawaloa Trail is more than a path. It is a pilgrimage that asks you to earn the reward of the bay's cool, clear water. This is not a casual stroll. It is a strenuous hike that demands respect for the terrain and the elements, but the sense of accomplishment as you slip into the water after the trek is unparalleled.

The Trail Experience

Your journey begins on Nāpōʻopoʻo Road. Look for telephone pole #4—the trailhead is on the right side of the road if you're heading downhill. Parking is extremely limited, with space for perhaps two cars at the trailhead itself. Most hikers park on the wide shoulder of the road before the trailhead, closer to the Māmalahoa Bypass Road.

The hike down is roughly 1.9 miles and descends 1,300 feet to sea level. The trail begins in a shaded canopy of trees and tall, sharp-edged grasses that can leave thin cuts on bare legs, making long pants a wise choice. After about 25 minutes, you break out of the trees into a dramatically different landscape of exposed volcanic rock, with sweeping views of the coastline and Mauna Loa in the distance. From here on, there is virtually no shade. The path is uneven, littered with loose lava rocks that make for tricky footing, so sturdy shoes are essential. Along the way, you'll spot numbered markers that help you track your progress.

As you near the bottom, the trail leads to a rocky shoreline. Here, you can find a concrete "X" set into the lava rock, said to mark the exact spot where Captain Cook was killed. A short walk to the left brings you to the monument and the small concrete jetty that serves as the main entry point into the water.

Path 2: The Paddler's Passage – Kayaking in Kealakekua Bay

Gliding across the bay in a kayak is a magical experience. From the water, you gain a true appreciation for the scale of the cliffs and the serenity of the place. It's an intimate way to connect with the bay, moving at your own pace, with the potential for a pod of naiʻa (spinner dolphins) to grace your journey.

However, accessing the bay by kayak has become strictly regulated to protect its fragile ecosystem from overuse. The rules can be confusing, but they are born from a necessary commitment to stewardship. Here is a clear, simple breakdown to help you navigate the process.

Authorized Kayak Tour Companies

To land your kayak at the Captain Cook Monument, you must go with one of the following companies permitted by the Hawaiʻi Division of State Parks. Be sure to book in advance:

Path 3: The Voyager's View – Taking a Boat Tour

For those seeking the most comfortable and accessible way to experience Kealakekua's underwater wonders, a boat tour is the perfect choice. It's ideal for families with children, visitors with limited mobility, or anyone who prefers to let an expert crew handle all the logistics. Tours depart from various West Hawaiʻi harbors, including the Kailua Pier, Keauhou Bay, and Honokōhau Harbor, and offer a wide range of experiences.

Choosing the right boat can shape your entire experience. The options generally fall into two categories: large, stable catamarans that prioritize comfort and amenities, and smaller, faster vessels that offer a more intimate and adventurous ride.