One of the most beautiful spots in the islands is Kealakekua on the Big Island of Hawaii. From a nearby beach that looks on to Kealakekua Bay and the flat of Ka’awaloa you can get a gorgeous view of one of Hawaii’s most protected deep water bays.
Kealakekua, which stands for “Path of the Gods,” is on the Kona side of the island. This spot is known today for remarkable snorkeling. A few hundred years ago, it was known as the spot where Captain Cook forever changed the course of events in Hawaii, and where he died.
At the time of Cook’s death, Kealakekua Bay is thought to have had a couple thousand residents living along its shores. Historic paintings and photography portrait the Bay as filled with outrigger canoes paddling out to meet Cook’s ship. This is still a special place and has been designated a marine life conservation district among other things.
