Keauhou Bay

Keauhou Bay is a historic Kona Coast harbor with boat tours, shoreline picnic space, a small boat ramp and King Kamehameha III history.

View overview Plan Your Visit

Keauhou Bay, Big Island

Keauhou Bay is a historic area on the Big Island's Kona Coast. It is the birthplace of King Kamehameha III (born in 1814). It is said that he was stillborn, but brought back to life by a visiting kahuna (priest). He was the longest reigning monarch in the Kingdom of Hawaii, from 1825 until his death in 1854.

There is a boat launch ramp and a small boat harbor at Keauhou Bay. Local residents like to fish here. The bay is not suitable for swimming since the ocean bottom is rocky and because of the harbor traffic. Several boat tour companies depart from here to take people snorkeling at nearby Kealakekua Bay and Red Hill. Next to the harbor is a small park with a grassy area, picnic tables, showers and restrooms. Keauhou is also a popular base for visitors who want to stay near South Kona boat tours, with nearby Keauhou vacation rentals and Big Island kayaking options.

Key Features

Historic Kona Coast bay in the Keauhou area
Birthplace of King Kamehameha III in 1814
Small boat harbor and launch ramp shape the shoreline
Boat tours often depart for nearby South Kona snorkel areas
Rocky ocean bottom makes the bay poor for casual swimming
Harbor traffic is part of the water setting
Small grassy park area sits near the harbor
Picnic space and bay views make it a short shoreline stop
Located at the end of Kamehameha III Road
Visitors should watch for boat traffic and respect the historic shoreline

Daily Activity Picks

Featured Big Island Activities

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time should visitors allow?

Many visitors allow 20 to 45 minutes for a shoreline look, photos, picnic time or waiting for a boat tour departure.

What kind of beach experience is Keauhou Bay?

It feels more like a working harbor and bayfront park than a soft-sand beach, with boat traffic, a ramp, rocky water and shoreline gathering areas.

Why is the bay important in Hawaiian history?

Keauhou Bay is the birthplace of King Kamehameha III, the longest-reigning monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii.

When does the area feel busiest?

The bay can feel busier around boat tour check-ins, local boating, fishing activity and weekends when families use the picnic areas.

What should visitors watch for around the water?

Watch for boat traffic, rocky footing, changing water movement near the ramp and people launching or returning from ocean activities.