Kealakekua Bay

Source: Naval Air Pilot, 1936.

DESCRIPTION

Location: Within the bay adjacent to Napoopoo village. In choosing an anchorage it is well to remember that there is a sea breeze in the daytime, shifting to a land breeze at night. (Lat. 19*28′ N., long. 155*56′ W.)

Dephts: 6 to 60 feet.

Tidal range: 1.4 feet.

Character of bottom: Coral and sand; fair holding ground.

Currents: Weak.

Shelter: Small lee; good anchorage and shelter only during the northeast trades for about six planes.

LANDING AND TAKE-OFF AREA

Location: Kealakekua Bay.

Area: Indents coast ENE./WSW. 3/4 miles; NNW./SSE., 1 mile.

Shelter: Small lee. Long take-offs must be made in open sea.

Obstructions: Frequently a heavy swell exists in the bay. Precipitous cliff between 400 and 600 feet high and about 1/2 mile long on northeast side.

FACILITIES

Provisions can be obtained in limited quantities at the village Napoopoo. Fresh water is scarce. Ordinary gasoline and some ship chandlery may be obtained.

Beach: Sand beach at north and south end village.

Communications: Telephone. Local steamer calls regular.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Aspects: The shore of Kealakekua Bay is low, except on the northeast side. The village of Napoopoo consists of a few houses scattered among the coconut trees.

Landmarks: White church with spire.

Tender anchorage: Good anchorage with fair holding ground can be found in 12 to 18 fathoms, with south end of the cliff bearing 55 degrees, and Cooks Monument bearing 314 degrees.

Boat landing: The landing, with about 4 feet of water, is in the middle of the village alongside of a low shed; during heavy swell it is best to land on the sand beach at the north end of the village.

Importance: Reported to be the best anchorage on the west coast of Hawaii. Forced landings, when quick repairs can be made, could be made here in moderate weather.