Our favorite spot to snorkel on the Big Island is at the Captain Cook Monument, in Kealakekua Bay. What is so great about it, you ask?
Well, first of all, it is a day filled with more than just snorkeling, because it involves an adventure to first get to the right spot. The monument is only accessible by boat, kayak, or a winding foot path. Our recommendation: go for the kayak across the bay. It is only about a mile each way, and if you are lucky, you just might see some spinner dolphins. The trip is one for all levels of kayakers, and usually only takes about 30-45 minutes each way. Waters are usually calmer in the morning, so try to head out early if you can (plus you’ll be more likely to see dolphins in the earlier hours).
If you are coming from Kona, take Mamalahoa Highway (11) south. It is about a 30 minute drive each way. There are plenty of kayak rental shops as you approach the bay, so don’t worry about renting one before you leave Kona. We have had good luck with a number of the shops in the area, so you can’t really go wrong. Expect to pay about $25-35 for a single kayak, and about $40 for a double. All shops will also provide you with some foam to put on the roof of your car, and will help you load the kayaks on top.
After you’ve picked up your kayak, head back out on 11 going south again. You’ll see signs for Kealakekua Bay, and will want to take a right on Napo’opo’o Road (160). This is an extremely winding and picturesque descent down to sea level. (Make sure your brakes are good before heading down).
When you get to the bottom, you’ll see a small park straight ahead (and probably tons of parked cars, since it is a very popular spot). If you get lucky, you might be able to find parking in this park. Otherwise, you’ll have to take a left and find some street parking. Make sure to drop your kayaks off at the park and then find parking (Rather than trying to carry your kayaks from your car back to the park).
There are almost always guys at the drop off who will help you launch the kayak. The drop off is on the left-hand side of the park when you are facing the water and is a bit of a drop. If you need help, just ask one of the guys and they will help you lower yourself in.
Once you are in the water, just kayak to the right across the bay (you’ll be able to see the Captain Cook monument). When you reach the other side of the bay, you’ll be able to land your kayak on the flat black rock patches to the left of the monument. You can’t really miss it, because you most likely will not be the only one there.
The entire area beneath the monument and around these rocks are awesome snorkeling, so after you land your kayak, just strap on the snorkel and fins and dive in!!
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April 23rd, 2007 at 11:21 pm
An additional thought… If you don’t want to kayak it to the monument, there is a trail about 200 yards down from the top of Napo’opo’o road, across from 3 tall palms, that goes down to the monument. It’s not for the out of shape, as it’s 3 miles long and a 1300′ or so elevation change, but for healthy hikers it’s a nice hike. Wear a hat and take water as much of it is open to the sun.