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State Park

Photo: Nnachappa64CC BY-SA 4.0Wikimedia Commons

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park

Hawaii · HI

Official sources & verification

Managed by Hawaii DLNR Division of State Parks

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Source of truth

We display cached information from agency feeds. Hours, fees, permits, closures, fire restrictions, and conditions change without notice. Outdoors is not the permitting authority. Confirm current conditions for this park using the links above before you go — you are responsible for compliance. Last verified by us: Oct 25, 2026. Spot an error in our data?

About

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park is situated on the west coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. The name "Kealakekua" means "the pathway of the god," highlighting its significance to Native Hawaiians. The bay is known for its clear turquoise waters, coral reefs, and the Captain Cook Monument, which honors the British explorer’s arrival in Hawaii and his death at this site in 1779. Activities at Kealakekua Bay include snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking. Access to the bay is primarily by boat due to the steep and rugged shoreline, with limited land access. Parking is available in nearby lots, but visitors should expect a short hike to reach the water. The weather is generally warm and sunny, making it suitable for outdoor pursuits. It is advisable to confirm hours, fees, and any closures with the official state site before your visit.

Source: google.com

From Wikipedia

Kealakekua Bay is located on the Kona coast of the island of Hawaiʻi about 12 miles (19 km) south of Kailua-Kona. Settled over a thousand years ago, the surrounding area contains many archeological and historical sites such as religious temples (heiaus) and also includes the spot where the first documented European to reach the Hawaiian islands, Captain James Cook, was killed. It was listed in the National Register of Historic Places listings on the island of Hawaiʻi in 1973 as the Kealakekua Bay Historical District. The bay is a marine life conservation district, a popular destination for kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

Source: Wikipedia — text licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Verify alerts and operational details with the managing agency below.

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Hunting in this park

This park overlaps hunting units

During hunting seasons, wear blaze orange and check regulations — see the Hawaii hunting page

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