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 Hawaii 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.
Kealakekua Bay in the morning
Kaʻawaloa in 1779 by John Webber, artist aboard Cook's ship
An illustration of the Hikiau heiau at Kealakekua Bay, by William Ellis
Priests traveling across the bay for first contact rituals, by John Webber
Hawaii is the largest island in the United States, located in the eponymous state of Hawaii. It is the southeasternmost of the Hawaiian Islands, a chain of volcanic islands in the North Pacific Ocean. With an area of 4,028 square miles (10,430 km2), it has 63% of the Hawaiian archipelago's combined landmass. However, it has only 13% of the archipelago's population. The island of Hawaiʻi is the third largest island in Polynesia, behind the north and south islands of New Zealand.
Landsat mosaic, 1999–2001
James Kealoha Beach, "Carlsmith Beach Park", in Hilo
Aerial view, 3D computer-generated image
A view of the Kohala Coast and adjacent volcanoes, taken from the slopes of Kohala Mountains about 6 miles (10 km) northwest of Kawaihae. From left to right: Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualalai.