Hawaii, United States of America

Kealakekua Bay

Kealakekua Bay is a beach situated on the tropical South Kona coast of Hawaii. Its coral reefs make it a popular spot for snorkeling. The bay is historically significant, being the location where Captain Cook first landed on the island.

Water-related activities like boat tours, kayaking, scuba diving, hiking, and snorkeling are the primary attractions at Kealakekua Bay. The bay's fish are abundant and colorful, with steeply sloping reefs that descend into deep water.

However, the best snorkeling spot is not accessible by car and requires visitors to take a boat or kayak or hike down to see the Captain Cook monument. To protect the coast and corals, permits are required for kayaking.

Discover places to stay near Kealakekua Bay and immerse yourself in the vibrant marine life of its coral reefs.

Visitors should show respect for the natural habitat of dolphins and avoid disturbing their natural behaviors.

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight the beach's great snorkeling opportunities and wildlife-filled tide pools, as well as its convenient location and well-maintained facilities. Visitors complain about the rocky approach into the water and limited parking. Some visitors also note the presence of ants that bite on the grassy area.

Where to Stay near Kealakekua Bay?

If you’re planning a trip to Kealakekua Bay, consider staying in nearby towns like Captain Cook and Kealakekua, where charming bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals provide easy access to the bay. Most visitors explore accommodations in these areas as they offer a peaceful retreat and proximity to the bay’s snorkeling and historical sites.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Where is Kealakekua Bay?

Latitude: 19.4712072 / Longitude: -155.920675

Kealakekua Bay is located in Hawaii. The following map of Kealakekua Bay shows the exact location.

Kealakekua Bay: Weather Today

📅 Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Today at Kealakekua Bay is a fantastic day for heading to the shore, offering near-perfect conditions for anyone looking to enjoy the water or relax under the sun. With a maximum air temperature of 29.9 °C and gentle, manageable breezes, you can expect a very comfortable experience. The sea is exceptionally inviting at 28.5 °C, making it ideal for swimming or snorkeling throughout the day. Waves remain calm, ensuring smooth water for your activities. Since the UV Index is 8.85, please remember to apply plenty of sun protection and seek shade during the midday hours to stay safe while you soak up the beautiful weather. Overall, it is a brilliant day for a beach excursion, so grab your gear and enjoy the sunshine.
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Air

Low / High24.4°C/29.9°C
Feels Like (High)35.7°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature28.5 °C
Wave Height0.7 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:11/18:25
Sunshine Hours11.8 hrs
UV Index8.85
Cloud Cover21%
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Wind

Speed4.3 km/h
Gusts20.5 km/h
DirectionW

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