Every act of aloha counts. Click here to DONATE to the MAUI RELIEF Fund.

Paddle to the Captain Cook Monument

Big IslandEssential Big Island

British CAPTAIN JAMES COOK, thought to be the first Westerner to set sight on the Hawaiian Islands, spotted the islands of O‘ahu and Kaua‘i on Jan. 18, 1778. Almost a year later, on Jan. 17, 1779, the explorer found his way to Hawai‘i Island. He anchored his ships in KEALAKEKUA BAY , where the annual MAKAHIKI FESTIVAL was in progress. Thinking Cook might be the god LONO , Hawaiians welcomed him with a great feast.

On Feb. 4, 1779, Cook left the island, only to return about a week PHO TO: JEFF S ANNER | L OCA TION: HA W AI‘I V OL CANOES NA TIONAL P ARK WALK THROUGH TIMEWORN PETROGLYPH FIELDS 20 101 things to do |

one of his ships. This time, the Hawaiians, who had discovered Cook was not a god, were quite hostile. Cook and four of his sailors died in the battle that ensued.

A small, BRONZE PLAQUE at the northern end of Kealakekua Bay marks the spot of his death. Near the plaque is a 27-FOOT OBELISK erected by Cook’s countrymen.

KAYAKING Kealakekua Bay is a great way to see the monument and explore the surrounding reef. As Kealakekua Bay is a MARINE LIFE CONSERVATION DISTRICT (MLCD), it presents a unique aquatic experience. Landing a kayak is only permissible with a permit, of which there are only 10 available per day. There are three kayak tour companies authorized to lead guided tours: ADVENTURES IN PARADISE, ALOHA KAYAK CO. and KONA BOYS INC. All three companies provide kayaks and snorkel gear (as well as instruction) for your trip.

101 Things To Do Digital Magazine

Get a FREE 101 Things To Do digital magazine

when you sign up for the 101 Things To Do email newsletter!

Upcoming Events