British sea captain James Cook, believed to be the first western explorer to set eyes on the Hawaiian Islands, discovered the islands of O'ahu and Kaua'i on January 18, 1778. Two days later he anchored in Waimea Bay off Kauai.

Almost a year later, on January 17, 1779, the explorer found his way to the Big Island where he was to be killed by Hawaiians. He anchored his ships in the sheltered waters of Kealakekua Bay, where the annual Makahiki festival honoring the fertility god Lono was held. Thinking Cook could be Lono himself, the Hawaiians welcomed him with open arms and honored him with a big feast.

On February 4, Captain Cook departed Big Island, only to return about a week later, after a severe storm damaged one of his ships. This time the Hawaiians, having discovered that Cook was not a god, were hostile. A skirmish broke out and Cook and four of his sailors died near the village of Ka'awaloa. In 1874, Cook's countrymen erected a 27-foot obelisk in his memory.

Today, the site is a popular snorkeling spot due to its clear and calm conditions.

Translated by Google •

Andre - Mindblow-africa

September 15, 2022

Don't forget the snorkeling equipment, fantastic underwater!

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Thomas G

January 12, 2023

Hiking shoes recommended

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Elevation 50 m

Weather

Today

Wednesday 8 October

29°C

23°C

12 %

If you start your activity now...

Max wind speed: 4.0 km/h

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Location: Honaunau-Napoopoo, Hawaiʻi County, United States

Captain Cook Monument, Kealakekua Bay

1. Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Area loop from Captain Cook

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