Snorkeling at Captain Cook Monument

The snorkeling around Captain Cook Monument is some of the best the Big Island has to offer. You will find coral and fish to be abundant and the visibility excellent. You may also come across green turtles. Dolphins may be visible in the mornings at a fair distance from the shore.

Captain Cook Monument is across Kealakekua Bay. The white obelisk spire marks the spot where Captain Cook was killed in 1779. When you get close to the monument shore here, you will appreciate the bright, clear turquoise water. The easiest way to get to the monument is to kayak across the bay, however, you can also hike to the monument following the Captain Cook Monument Trail or by booking a trip on a tour boat that stops near the monument.

The shallow waters adjacent to the monument are best for snorkeling.

We recommend you rent a kayak down in Kealakekua Bay at Ehu and Kai Adventures. There are other kayak outfitters as well, like Kona Boys and Bay Side Adventures. We prefer Ehu and Kai Adventures as it’s very easy and comfortable to launch your kayak into the water from this outfitter’s location.

How to get to Ehu and Kai Adventures Kayak Rental

From Luana Inn entrance gate turn right onto Lower Nāpo’opo’o Road to go downhill towards Kealakekua Bay. When you reach the t junction a Napo’opo’o Pier turn left onto Puuhonua Rd and follow slowly along the narrow road until you reach Kahauloa Rd. Kahauloa Rd will be the second street that intersects with Puuhonua Rd. You will turn right onto Kahauloa Rd and drive to the end of this road where you need to find parking for your vehicle. Once you’ve parked, its just a short walk to the Ehu and Kai Adventures.

directions to get to Ehu Kai Adventures for Kayak Rental in Kealakekua Bay to kayak to Captain Cook Monument

Directions from Luana Inn to Ehu and Kai Adventures for Kayak Rental

Kayak Rental at Ehu and Kai Adventures

Ehu and Kai is permitted to dock at Captain Cook Monument and for kayaking in Kealakekua Bay.

It takes about 20 minutes to paddle across the bay to the monument.

Kayak Rental at Ehu and Kai Adventures rent a kayak to get to Captain Cook Monument for fantastic snorkeling

Kayak Rental Rates

All Kayaks are for up to 5hr on the bay.

  • Single Kayak – $45 Each
  • Double Kayak – $65 Each
  • Triple Kayak – $85 Each

Ph# 808-328-8775
Reserve your Kayak online: www.ehuandkai.com

Snorkeling

Due to the calm water conditions, extensive coral reef, and thriving underwater life, Kealakekua Bay offers some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii. The shallow waters adjacent to the monument are best for snorkeling. The 315 acres of the bay has been a Marine Life Conservation District since 1969.

hawaii detox retreat center snorkeling big island

School of Yellow Tang swimming in coral reef Captain Cook Monument

BRING

  • Swimming towels
  • Hat
  • Plenty of water
  • Water shoes
  • Snorkeling Gear
  • Flippers (optional)
  • Snack
  • Picnic (optional)

DISTANCE

Ehu and Kai Adventures is 1.2 mile from Luana Inn where you will launch your kayak.

Easy to walk down to from Luana Inn. Takes about 23 minutes. Or, park at Manini Beach and walk further.

ACTIVITIES

Swim, Snorkel, Kayak, Explore Captain Cook Monument, Historic Site, Protected Environment