Let's hike to the Captain Cook Monument, go snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay at the 315 acre underwater park.
Karie and Marty hike this trail at least once a week and figured we’d start posting them for the group in case there are people who haven’t done it yet or just want to go with a group. We’ve found that hiking back up between noon and 2pm are the hottest and worst times so we leave at noon so that we hike back around 3pm with the sun behind us and the afternoon clouds rolling in to make it much cooler. We usually spend around an hour or so at the bottom snorkeling and relaxing before we head back up. We may leave to head back up earlier, as the swimming/paddle boarding group is likely to depart the monument a bit earlier.
****No plus ones on this hike. Each person must sign up, reading the liability waiver. Mahalo. ********
*** Not a dog friendly hike. ***
The hike is 4 miles RT. The trail drops approximately 1,300′ from the trail head to the bay. Most of our way we will be on an old jeep trail and even older cattle trail that is part dirt and part small lava chunks.
The hike destination will be the monument. The shoreline is rocky but there is access over lava rock to the bay for swimming and snorkeling. Hikers need to be prepared for potentially warm, sunny weather, especially on the strenuous return uphill climb; however, rain or overcast is always possible in the Capt Cook area. Recommended; closed-toed shoes, hiking poles, sun protection, snacks, swim/snorkel gear and **** at least two liters of water per person, ******. more would be better.
Once we are at the Monument you can staying as long or little as you want – snorkeling, swimming and relaxing. We don’t have to all hike out at the same time.
Do to the steepness of the hike out and with little shade; I would rate this hike as moderate to difficult.
We plan to be at the trailhead (located 1/10th of a mile south of Mamalahoa Hwy on Napoopoo Rd) by 11:30 am. Parking there is very limited. If driving yourself, please take extreme care in parking and walking to the trailhead.
Liability Waiver: By signing up for this event I and my invitees agree the organizers and event organizers of this group and members will not be held responsible for the actions of any participant at any event. Each attendee attending an event is attending at their own risk and is solely responsible for any damage to their equipment or themselves. I fully understand that attending these events involves risks and dangers of serious bodily injury, including permanent disability, paralysis, and death. I accept and assume all such risks and all responsibility for losses, costs, and damages. Hereby release from all liability, claims, demands, losses, or damages on my account caused or alleged to be caused in whole or in part by the members of this group. I have read this agreement, I fully understand its terms.
