Captain Cook Monument Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to visit the Captain Cook Monument in 2025?

That depends on how you experience it. Boat tours to the Captain Cook Monument range from roughly US$100-200 per adult, depending on the tour’s length and inclusions. Hiking access is free, though parking costs US$5-10. Kayak rentals typically average US$50 per day plus transportation to the launch point.

Q: What exactly is the Captain Cook Monument?

The Captain Cook Monument is a white obelisk anchoring a stone platform on the western side of the Big Island—it marks the spot where British explorer Captain James Cook was killed in 1779. Right on the shoreline of Kealakekua Bay, it’s accessible primarily by water. Many visitors come for another reason entirely: the area’s great snorkeling.

Q: How long should I plan to spend at the Captain Cook Monument?

That depends on what you’re there to do. Most boat tours allocate about an hour for snorkeling and exploring, though that doesn’t include the time sailing around the bay. Hikers should likely budget 4-5 hours for the strenuous trek down and back up the trail depending on fitness level, plus any extra time to scope out the monument.

Q: What historical significance does the Captain Cook Monument have?

The Captain Cook Monument marks where the eponymous British explorer was killed in February 1779, following a dispute with native Hawaiians. It represents a pivotal moment in Hawaiian history that signaled the beginning of Western influence on the islands and their eventual cultural transformation. Needless to say, it’s not exactly beloved by native Hawaiians.

Q: Can you snorkel on your own at the Captain Cook Monument?

Yes, you can snorkel independently at the Captain Cook Monument if you kayak or hike there (which would require carrying your own vessel). However, you need a permit to kayak in Kealakekua Bay. The area offers exceptional visibility, diverse marine life, and coral formations, so it may be worth the extra hassle.

26 results

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Small-Group Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay in Captain Cook, Big Island

4.9

(432)

Small-Group Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay in Captain Cook, Big Island

3 hoursFree Cancellation

from $109

Two Reef Snorkel Trip-See Captain Cook Monument & Sea Caves

4.8

(361)

Two Reef Snorkel Trip-See Captain Cook Monument & Sea Caves

4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $119

Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

Sail up the scenic Kona coastline, getting views of ancient lava flows and verdant cliffs, and stopping at the Captain Cook Monument, on this afternoon sail in Kealakekua Bay. Slip into the water using the provided snorkeling gear to see vibrant schools of fish, living coral, and even pods of spinner dolphins. Learn about the area's underwater flora, fauna, and ecosystem through guided commentary.

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4.9

(732)

Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

3 hoursFree Cancellation

from $136

Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves

4.6

(1,483)

Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves

2 hours 45 minutesFree Cancellation

from $79

Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

This half-day boat cruise takes you to the two best snorkeling sites in Kealakekua Bay: The reef beneath Captain Cook's monument and the underwater lava formations of Red Hill. In addition to breakfast and lunch, your guides provide all necessary equipment, basic snorkeling tips, and identification charts to help you spot fish and dolphins in their natural habitat. Don’t forget your camera—the route showcases sweeping views of the Kona coastline.

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4.9

(548)

Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $178

Captain Cook Snorkel Tour in The Pristine Water at Kealakekua Bay

The vibrant coral reefs and crystalline waters of Kealakekua Bay make it one of Hawaii's most popular snorkeling spots. Discover the underwater wonders for yourself on this half-day cruise and dive in to swim, snorkel, and admire the colorful fish. There is space for just six passengers on this small-boat cruise—book all six, and you can enjoy a private cruise customized to your preferences.

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4.9

(118)

Captain Cook Snorkel Tour in The Pristine Water at Kealakekua Bay

4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $109

Dolphin, Sea Cave, Captain Cook, Kealakekua Bay Reef Snorkeling

4.5

(49)

Dolphin, Sea Cave, Captain Cook, Kealakekua Bay Reef Snorkeling

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $89

Kona’s Best Morning Snorkel: Captain Cook & Kealakekua Bay

Casually cruise the Kona coastline and snorkel with tropical marine life in Kealakekua Bay on this group snorkeling cruise from Keauhou Bay. Snorkeling equipment, inner tubes, floatation devices, and environmentally friendly sunscreen are provided. On the cruise between shore and the snorkeling site, watch for spinner dolphins, turtles, or manta rays, and enjoy views of volcanic formations along the Kona coast. A plant-based breakfast and lunch are included onboard.

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4.9

(973)

Kona’s Best Morning Snorkel: Captain Cook & Kealakekua Bay

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $194

4.9

(249)

Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

3 hoursFree Cancellation

from $136

Special Offer

Kona Snorkeling: Beat the Crowd to Kealakekua Bay

Kealakekua Bay is one of Hawaii's best marine sanctuaries, often crowded with visitors. This snorkeling tour lets you avoid the crowds by taking you out onto the bay in a Zodiac raft, which can reach places bigger boats can't go. Enjoy reef-safe sunscreen provided at the office before the trip and snacks including sandwiches. Once in the water, explore the marine life-filled world beneath the bay's crystal-clear water.

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4.9

(235)

Kona Snorkeling: Beat the Crowd to Kealakekua Bay

5 hoursFree Cancellation

from

$142

$168

Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour - 4 hour Kona Zodiac Adventure

Splash into the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay on this Big Island snorkeling adventure! Dart in and out of sea caves and explore the gorgeous Kona coastline in an agile Zodiac raft. Snorkel among colorful tropical fish, and keep an eye out for other marine life like whales, dolphins and sea turtles. Along the way, learn about the island’s geologic history and local legends from your expert guide, and see the spot where Captain Cook first landed in Hawaii.

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4.9

(509)

Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour - 4 hour Kona Zodiac Adventure

4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $153

Kealakekua Bay Afternoon Snorkel: Family Fun on the Kona Coast

4.9

(660)

Kealakekua Bay Afternoon Snorkel: Family Fun on the Kona Coast

4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $144

Ensure you find some of the best snorkeling sites in Hawaii on this sail and snorkel adventure leaving from Keauhou Bay Pier. Set sail along the Kona coastline toward the Captain Cook Monument, where your adventure begins. Jump into the clear water to explore the vibrant reef of the marine sanctuary of Kealakekua Bay, which is home to schools of colorful fish and pods of spinner dolphins. Your tour includes breakfast, lunch, and equipment such as snorkeling gear and boogie boards.

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4.9

(475)

Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $179

Morning Magic Kayak and Snorkel Adventure in Kealakekua Bay

Kealakekua Bay is a culturally sacred place to the Hawaiian people, rich with history and not without controversy. We are lucky to be allowed to provide tours in Kealakekua Bay and feel that it is our responsibility to share some of that history while enjoying the Bay's majestic beauty. Know for it's marine diversity and coral cliff, the snorkeling is some of the best on the planet. When you aren't looking down at the display of colorful reef fish, you'll gaze over the surface of the most protected deep water bay in the Hawaiian Islands, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and coco palms. We are one of only three companies that provide kayak tours to this amazing destination and we pride ourselves on providing the best customer service, equipment, and knowledge to ensure that you get the most enjoyment out of your time in the Bay.

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5.0

(190)

Morning Magic Kayak and Snorkel Adventure in Kealakekua Bay

5 hoursFree Cancellation

from $258

Guided Outrigger Canoe Tour in Kealakekua Bay

Skip the usual boat tours and embark upon a Hawaiian style kayak adventure in a traditional outrigger canoe. These double-hull canoes are known for providing stability and smooth rides; all the better to experience Kealakekua Bay with minimal exertion. Learn about the history of the bay, one of the most sacred in Hawaii; its mysterious caves, and how people lived there, from guides whose families are connected to the area.

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4.8

(226)

Guided Outrigger Canoe Tour in Kealakekua Bay

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $155

Private Kealakekua Bay Captain Cook Snorkeling

Dive into the vibrant marine sanctuary of Kealakekua Bay, where you can snorkel alongside over 200 species of tropical fish, during this personalized adventure. This tour goes beyond the ordinary, allowing you to explore captivating sea caves and uncover intriguing historical sites along the way. Your team is well-versed in the rich history of the Big Island and the Kona coast, and you can sail comfortably on one of the finest and fastest tour boats in Kona, Hawaii.

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5.0

(43)

Private Kealakekua Bay Captain Cook Snorkeling

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $1,461

Per group

When you book with us, you are really in control of how you want your favorite day on vacation to go! We can completely customize the experience for you making sure you get the best excursion you've ever been on. We are a family owned business and encourage families with young children to come aboard and learn about snorkeling, fishing, whale watching, or all of the above! We are a full 5-star service experience. We provide everything needed to have an awesome day on the water. You can show up to the harbor wearing just a swimsuit, and we will take care of the rest!

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5.0

(4)

6 Hour Private Charter in Kona

5 hoursFree Cancellation

from $2,100

Per group

Half Day Private Cruise Tour with Snorkeling and Fishing in Kona

Come aboard UliUli Moana for a luxury private snorkeling tour. Everything you need for the day is provided. You and your party can show up to the harbor with nothing but smiles and we will provide the rest. This is a completely private and completely customizable tour. We will go to snorkel spots we know will provide an awesome experience, but we are willing to take you wherever your heart desires! We will have a snorkel guide on board to show you around the underwater world and point out some awesome natural life.

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5.0

(3)

Half Day Private Cruise Tour with Snorkeling and Fishing in Kona

5 hoursFree Cancellation

from $1,900

Per group

Private Charter Custom Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling

We are a local Hawaiian family operation. Providing that family friendly vibe, with an authentic Hawaiian style touch adding native culture and traditions to help you connect with the island way of life. Our boat is shaded, personal and comfortable. 24’ Custom Zodiac Rib, offers a smooth but exciting ride , our fully shaded deck keeps you cool, with plenty of seating and move around space for everyone. Smaller Groups & Fully Private Charters. Unlike most Zodiac Boats of our size , We specialize in providing a more personal and interactive tour with our guest. Although our vessel is built to handle & accommodate more people , we cap all of our trips at a maximum of 6 Guest total. Smaller group sizes insure better overall safety and comfort of guest onboard. Escape the large crowds with a Private Charter and reserve the whole boat for your group or Ohana of up to 6 people. Shared Charters also available for individuals or couples. All charters are customizable , we do what you want to do

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5.0

(4)

Private Charter Custom Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $800

Per group

Kona Coast Hualalai Volcano-60Min Helicopter Tour-Door Off or On

Marvel at the Kona coastline’s splendor and the beauty of the Hualalai volcano on our awe-inspiring 60 minute helicopter tour. Begin over ancient Hawaiian Kaloko Fish Ponds and Kailua Bay’s sparkling waters, surrounded by Ali’i Drive. Soaring over the Kona Coast unveils the white sands of Magic Sands Beach and vibrant Kona Coffee farms. Flying south, go back in time over Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve and the Captain Cook Monument. A circle over the sacred Hawaiian Place of Refuge offers reflection on Hawai’i’s past. Climbing from the coast, explore the wonders of Ka’upulehu Crater and the majestic Hualalai Volcano. See how the volcanic formations contrast starkly with the ecosystem in the Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve, home to native flora and fauna. Finally, enjoy the golden sands of Anaehoomalu Bay and blue waters of Kiholo Bay, including Makalawena Beach’s secluded beauty. This aerial journey offers a remarkable perspective of the breathtaking Kona Coast and Pele’s volcanic wonders.

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4.9

(16)

Kona Coast Hualalai Volcano-60Min Helicopter Tour-Door Off or On

1 hourFree Cancellation

from $640

Price varies by group size

Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour Including Lunch

4.9

(314)

Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour Including Lunch

5 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $205

Midday Meander - Kealakekua Bay Kayak and Snorkel Adventure

Spend an afternoon with our certified guides and enjoy the majestic scenery of Kealakekua Bay while learning about its rich history and cultural importance. We kayak the Bay from the Pier at Napoo’poo landing across the the protected shore of Ka’awaloa where we spend our time leisurely snorkeling above beautiful coral heads and a drop off that plunges to almost 250?. We’ll enjoy a light snack and some drinks on shore and share stories from Captain Cooks visits to the island while visiting his monument. The paddle back always seems to end too soon and before you know it we’re back at the pier where the tour wraps up.

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4.9

(77)

Midday Meander - Kealakekua Bay Kayak and Snorkel Adventure

4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $187

Kona Coastal Sights Unseen - 45Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off/On

Embark on an unforgettable 45 minute helicopter tour showcasing the stunning diversity of Kona's coastline and Hualalai Volcano. Take flight over the ancient Kaloko Fish Ponds then glide above sparkling Kailua Bay along picturesque Ali’i Drive. Witness Kona’s magnificent beauty and experience the powdery expanse of Magic Sands Beach to the succulent, green Kona Coffee farms. From there, look into history while soaring over the pristine Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, home to the iconic Captain Cook Monument. Climbing above the landscape, witness the geological formations of Ka’upulehu Crater and the majesty of the Hualalai Volcano. Traversing across the molten rock, the landscape opens to Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve, home to native flora and fauna. After exploring the forest, soar over the turquoise waters of Kiholo Bay and glimpse the secluded beauty of Makalawena Beach. This aerial adventure offers a breathtaking perspective on Kona’s world famous coastline and natural volcanic beauty.

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5.0

(2)

Kona Coastal Sights Unseen - 45Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off/On

45 minutesFree Cancellation

from $590

Price varies by group size

Kona Coast Scenic - 30 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On

Experience the rich history and breathtaking beauty of the Kona coastline from above on our exclusive 30 minute helicopter tour. Take flight over the ancient Kaloko Fish Ponds, marveling at traditional Hawaiian aquaculture. Coasting along the scenic Ali’i Drive, lined with charming shops and restaurants, soar over to the picturesque waters of Kailua Bay and the powdery white sand of Magic Sands Beach. From there, the diverse landscape offers aerial views of lush Kona Coffee farms, showcasing the world-renowned coffee plantations. Gliding through the air, the rich farmland flows into the pristine Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, home to vibrant coral reefs and lively marine life. While circling the bay, connect with the history of Hawai’i with a view of the Captain Cook Monument, where the famous explorer met his end. This unforgettable aerial adventure offers a one-of-a-kind perspective on some of Kona's most iconic sights.

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Kona Coast Scenic - 30 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On

30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $540

Price varies by group size

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What are people saying about Captain Cook Monument

Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

Tara_M, Mar 2026

Wonderful family afternoon snorkeling!

Great experience all around. Clean, good size vessel. Friendly, informative, kind crew. Nice light snacks. Perfect length of time. AWESOME snorkeling. Would highly recommend for anyone traveling in or near Kona. We went with our 17 and 14 yo daughters. Significant mix of people and easy going group. Bathrooms on the vessel were very clean and comfortable. Appreciated the crew - nice balance of knowledge, teamwork, engagement.

Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

Tamar_E, Jan 2026

Excellent experience-...

Excellent experience- well-organized, great and knowledgeable guides, very clean, nice snacks, lovely boat ride and snorkel

Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

Lisa_A, Oct 2025

Fun sail and snorkeling

Great experience. The crew was amazing. There were two bathrooms onboard, big enough to change in. Very roomy and clean. Snacks, sodas and water are provided. Snorkeling was fun. Lots of fish to see.

Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

Cathy_F, Apr 2026

A snorkel sailing adventure to remember!

We loved our snorkeling/sailing experience! Beautiful boat, the staff on board were friendly, fun and attentive! The Captain was awesome on our trip too …weather was perfect for a little extra sailing on top of our Iguana and Captain Cook Snorkel stops. We saw so many different fish and coral especially at Captain Hook. Enjoyed the light breakfast, snacks and lunch too. Highly recommend!!!

Two Reef Snorkel Trip-See Captain Cook Monument & Sea Caves

Robert_H, Mar 2026

Best day EVER!

Captain Rob and Bryce were both amazing. Loved hearing the history and stories along the way and getting an up close and personal look at the sea caves and lava tubes. We took the excursion that had two snorkeling experiences. The second experience was amazing with the two deep canyons and tons of fish and not a ton of people.

Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

Steve_G, Jan 2026

Definitely recommend when on the Big Island, near Kona

What a great experience! The boat is never overcrowded or packed to capacity, which demonstrates that this company wants you to have a great time! We appreciated their hospitality and friendly manner with every guest. The fresh fruit was a great healthy snack and the drink options were delicious! The boat itself is kept immaculately clean and the snorkel equipment was in like-new condition. Thank you to the whole crew for making us so comfortable during this experience, from start to finish.

Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

Michele_E, Jan 2026

Great afternoon on the water!

Lovely small sailboat - you are under power the entire way, but still a nice experience. On the trip, we saw whales, snorkeled by Captain Cook Monument, and on the way back, saw Pele “laying” Oceanside. Crew was very knowledgable and shared a lot of interesting information along the way. Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks were included and after snorkeling, alcohol was available for purchase.

Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

Dawn_L, Mar 2026

Worth it!!!

Captain Patty and the crew are fabulous! We were hesitant to book so soon after the storms, but they made for a special morning. The snorkeling was much better than we anticipated with everything going on. The Hawaiian prayer chant was beautiful. Everyone was friendly, patient, and helpful. I will do this tour again.

Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

Shira_A, Mar 2026

We were very impressed...

We were very impressed with this outfit, the boat, crew, and meals provided. The crew were enthusiastic, helpful and had a lot of information to share about the island. We went to "Iguana" for our first snorkel which had interesting coral formations and few fish species. There were more and varied fish at the second site, Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Memorial. Overall, I would recommend this company and experience.