Captain
James Cook and his ships, the Resolution and Discovery, entered the
sheltered waters of Kealakekua Bay (Pathway of the God) on the morning
of Jan 17, 1779, during the height of a local religious festival.
Thinking Cook was a returning God, the Hawaiians welcomed and honored
him. Strife followed, and the Hawaiians realized that Cook and his
crew were not immortal. In the end, Cook was surrounded and killed
at this very spot. This monument is only approachable by rugged
foot trail or by water. The best way to reach this austere and
beautiful spot is by kayak. Launch your kayak from the Kealakekua
wharf and paddle across the bay. The water is clear and calm and
the snorkeling and
SCUBA diving at Captain Cook are
unforgettable experiences. Read more about the history of Captain Cook, snorkeling and diving around the area, in this article in Let's Go Hawaii.