Kealakekua

Kealakekua, a charming community nestled on the Kona coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, is a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Surrounded by lush landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and towering palm trees, Kealakekua offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Steeped in history, Kealakekua is home to the Captain Cook Monument, a poignant reminder of the British explorer’s fateful visit to the island in 1779. Visitors can take a boat tour to the monument, where they can snorkel or dive in the pristine waters and explore the vibrant marine life.

Beyond its rich history, Kealakekua offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. From swimming and sunbathing on the community’s pristine beaches to hiking and exploring the area’s many natural wonders, there’s something for everyone in Kealakekua.

Nature lovers will be in awe of the community’s breathtaking scenery, from the verdant green hills to the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. History buffs can visit the nearby Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, a sacred site that once offered refuge to those who broke the ancient Hawaiian laws.

Visitors to Kealakekua can choose from a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts and vacation rentals to budget-friendly hotels and inns. The community’s restaurants and cafes serve up a variety of local and international cuisine, while the many shops and markets offer a chance to browse for souvenirs and gifts. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Kealakekua is the perfect destination for your next Hawaiian getaway.

Flights To Kealakekua

Tips For Booking Cheap Flights To Kealakekua

  • Book in advance: Booking your flight several weeks or even months in advance can help you secure the best deals on airfare.
  • Use flight comparison websites: Websites like SkyscannerKayakEarlytripsTicketsawayMycityflights and Google Flights can help you compare prices from different airlines and find the best deals.
  • Be flexible with your travel dates: If you have flexible travel dates, you may be able to find cheaper flights by traveling on less popular days or during off-peak times.
  • Consider connecting flights: Non-stop flights are often more expensive than connecting flights. Consider flying into a nearby airport or connecting through a hub city to save money.
  • Set price alerts: Many travel websites and apps allow you to set price alerts for specific routes, so you can be notified when prices drop.
  • Fly during off-peak hours: Flights during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late at night, are often cheaper than flights during peak hours.
  • Look for budget airlines: Some budget airlines, such as Southwest Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, offer cheaper fares than larger carriers.
  • Check for discounts and promotions: Some airlines offer discounts and promotions for students, military personnel, and seniors. Check the airline’s website for any available discounts.
  • Book a package deal: Some travel websites and tour operators offer package deals that include flights, accommodations, and activities, which can be cheaper than booking everything separately.

Places To Visit

Historical Sites
  1. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park: This sacred site was once a place of refuge for those who broke the ancient Hawaiian laws. Visitors can explore the park’s many historical structures, including the Great Wall and the Heiau temple.
  2. Captain Cook Monument: This monument marks the spot where British explorer Captain James Cook was killed in 1779. Visitors can take a boat tour to the monument and explore the surrounding waters.
Natural Attractions
  1. Kealakekua Bay: This stunning bay is a popular spot for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. Visitors can explore the bay’s crystal-clear waters and see a variety of marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles.
  2. Manini’owali Beach: Also known as Kua Bay, this beautiful beach is known for its white sand and clear blue waters. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the bay’s calm waters.
  3. Honaunau Bay: This picturesque bay is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore the bay’s vibrant coral reefs and see a variety of tropical fish and other marine life.Manini’owali Beach: Also known as Kua Bay, this beautiful beach is known for its white sand and clear blue waters. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the bay’s calm waters.
  4. Kahalu’u Beach Park: This popular beach park is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and see a variety of tropical fish and other marine life.
Museums and Cultural Centers
  1. St. Benedict’s Catholic Church: Also known as the “Painted Church,” this historic church is known for its beautiful frescoes and intricate woodwork. Visitors can attend Mass or take a guided tour of the church.
  2. Kona Coffee Living History Farm: This working coffee farm offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich coffee-growing tradition. Visitors can learn about the history of coffee farming in Hawaii and see how coffee is grown, harvested, and processed.
  3. Hulihe’e Palace: This former royal vacation home is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Hawaiian monarchy. Visitors can see a variety of artifacts, including furniture, art, and textiles.
Outdoor Activities
  1. Pu’u Wai’Apa Trail: This scenic hiking trail offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can see a variety of native plants and animals, including the rare Hawaiian hawk.
  2. Helicopter Tours: Several tour companies offer helicopter tours of the Big Island, including Kealakekua. Visitors can see the area’s stunning landscapes and natural wonders from above.
  3. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Kealakekua is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Visitors can explore the area’s many snorkeling and scuba diving spots, including the Captain Cook Monument and Kealakekua Bay.
  4. Hiking: Kealakekua offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Visitors can explore the area’s lush landscapes and see a variety of native plants and animals.

Best Vacation Spots

  1. Kealakekua Bay: This stunning bay is a must-visit for anyone vacationing in Kealakekua. Known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, Kealakekua Bay is a popular spot for snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving. Visitors can also take a boat tour of the bay and see the Captain Cook Monument, which marks the spot where British explorer Captain James Cook was killed in 1779.
  2. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park: This 180-acre park is a sacred site that was once a place of refuge for those who broke the ancient Hawaiian laws. Visitors can explore the park’s many historical structures, including the Great Wall and the Heiau temple.
  3. Kahalu’u Beach Park: This popular beach park is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and see a variety of tropical fish and other marine life. The park also offers showers, restrooms, and picnic tables, making it a great spot for a family day at the beach.
  4. Pu’u Wai’Apa Trail: This scenic hiking trail offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can see a variety of native plants and animals, including the rare Hawaiian hawk.
  5. Kona Coffee Living History Farm: This working coffee farm offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich coffee-growing tradition. Visitors can learn about the history of coffee farming in Hawaii and see how coffee is grown, harvested, and processed.
  6. Royal Footprints: This natural landmark is said to be the spot where the ali’i (Hawaiian royalty) used to stand and watch the sunrise. Visitors can see the footprints and learn about the history and legends of the area.
  7. St. Benedict’s Catholic Church: Also known as the “Painted Church,” this historic church is known for its beautiful frescoes and intricate woodwork. Visitors can attend Mass or take a guided tour of the church.
  8. Honaunau Bay: This picturesque bay is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore the bay’s vibrant coral reefs and see a variety of tropical fish and other marine life.
  9. Manini’owali Beach: Also known as Kua Bay, this beautiful beach is known for its white sand and clear blue waters. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel in the bay’s calm waters.

Hotels

Top Hotels

  • Four Seasons Resort Hualalai: This 5-star resort is a true oasis of luxury on the Kona-Kohala Coast. With its private beach, seven swimming pools, and several dining options, guests can indulge in the ultimate vacation experience. The resort’s spacious rooms and suites offer breathtaking ocean views, and the resort’s cultural activities and programs provide a unique glimpse into Hawaiian culture.
  • Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection: This 5-star resort is a true gem of the Kohala Coast. With its private beach, swimming pool, and several dining options, guests can enjoy a luxurious and relaxing vacation. The resort’s spacious rooms and suites offer elegant decor and stunning ocean views, while the resort’s activities and programs provide a range of options for guests of all ages.
  • The Cliff House at Hualalai: This 5-star hotel is a secluded paradise on the Kona-Kohala Coast. With its private beach, swimming pool, and several dining options, guests can indulge in a truly luxurious vacation. The hotel’s spacious rooms and suites offer breathtaking ocean views and modern amenities, while the hotel’s activities and programs provide a range of options for guests of all ages.
  • The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort: This 4.5-star resort is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. With its private beach, two swimming pools, and several dining options, guests can unwind and enjoy the beautiful Kohala Coast. The resort’s spacious rooms and suites offer modern amenities and stunning ocean views, while the resort’s activities and programs provide plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration.
  • Mauna Kea Beach Hotel: This 4.5-star hotel is a true gem of the Kohala Coast. With its private beach, swimming pool, and several dining options, guests can enjoy a luxurious and relaxing vacation. The hotel’s spacious rooms and suites offer elegant decor and stunning ocean views, while the hotel’s activities and programs provide a range of options for guests of all ages.

Budget Friendly Hotels

  • Kona Tiki Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel is a great option for travelers who want to stay near Kealakekua without breaking the bank. The hotel features an outdoor pool and free parking, and the rooms are simple but clean and comfortable. Many of the rooms offer views of the ocean, and the hotel’s location in Kailua-Kona is just a short drive from Kealakekua.
  • Royal Kona Resort: This budget-friendly resort is a great choice for travelers who want to stay on the waterfront in Kailua-Kona. The resort features an outdoor pool, a spa, and several dining options, and the rooms are basic but clean and comfortable. Many of the rooms offer views of the ocean, and the resort’s location in Kailua-Kona is just a short drive from Kealakekua.
  • Holiday Inn Express Kailua-Kona: This budget-friendly hotel is a great option for travelers who want to stay in Kailua-Kona without sacrificing comfort or convenience. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and free Wi-Fi, and the rooms are modern and comfortable. Many of the rooms offer views of the ocean, and the hotel’s location in Kailua-Kona is just a short drive from Kealakekua.
  • Coconut Grove Inn: This budget-friendly inn is a great choice for travelers who want to stay in Captain Cook and experience the natural beauty of the area. The inn features an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and free Wi-Fi, and the rooms are simple but clean and comfortable. Many of the rooms offer views of the ocean, and the inn’s location in Captain Cook is just a short drive from Kealakekua.
  • Keauhou Beach Resort: This budget-friendly resort is a great option for travelers who want to stay near the beach in Kahalu’u. The resort features an outdoor pool, a spa, and several dining options, and the rooms are basic but clean and comfortable. Many of the rooms offer views of the ocean, and the resort’s location in Kahalu’u is just a short drive from Kealakekua.

Best Time To Visit

  • Weather: The weather in Kealakekua is generally warm and sunny year-round, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. However, the area can be rainier from October to March, so if you prefer dryer weather, you may want to visit from April to September.
  • Crowds: Kealakekua can be quite busy with tourists from December to April, so if you prefer a quieter and less crowded experience, you may want to visit during the shoulder season or off-season.
  • Activities: If you’re interested in whale watching, the best time to visit Kealakekua is from December to April, when humpback whales migrate to the area. If you’re interested in surfing or other water sports, the winter months offer the biggest waves, while the summer months are generally calmer.
  • Budget: The cost of travel to Kealakekua can vary depending on the time of year. Prices for flights and accommodations tend to be higher during peak season (December to April) and lower during the off-season (May to November).
Scroll to Top