Captain Cook Travel Guide

Captain Cook is a quaint town located on the Big Island's west shore. It's named after Captain Cook, the circumnavigator who landed on the island in 1779 and was killed by natives a month later. Although the town is small, it's considered the last of the big towns in the area, and is best known for snorkeling, fishing, sailing, sightseeing and scuba diving.

Things to Do in Captain Cook

Top things to do include kayaking and snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay, hiking two miles offshore to the Captain Cook Monument, taking an interactive tour of the Kona Coffee Living History Farm, and viewing exotic plants and flowers at the Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary.

Best Time to Visit Captain Cook

The weather is always warm enough to enjoy beach activities in Captain Cook, but to avoid the tourism bustle and high prices, visit between September and November.

Food in Captain Cook

In March, Honaunau Rodeo Grounds hosts the annual Kona Stampede Rodeo, a community event where you can watch local cowboys in action.