Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, located about 12 miles south of Kailua-Kona, is a must-visit spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking. The bay's crystal-clear waters are teeming with colorful coral and tropical fish, and you might even catch a glimpse of spinner dolphins. This historic site marks where Captain James Cook first landed on the island of Hawaiʻi in 1778 before meeting his unfortunate fate in a skirmish with Native Hawaiians a year later. Don't miss the white obelisk memorializing his death and the sacred Hikiau heiau dedicated to the Hawaiian god, Lono. Admission is free, so pack a picnic and soak up the history and beauty of Kealakekua Bay!