The history of Kona-Kailua, on the Big Island of Hawaii, includes Hawaiian royalty, Christian missionaries and Captain James Cook. The memorial to Cook, who was killed at Kealakekua Bay, stands at the site of excellent snorkeling and diving. Get back to the here and now at the area's stunning beaches - white sand, black sand and a variety of shades in between. Don't forget the waterfalls, volcanoes, luaus, seahorse farm, whale and dolphin sightings, sea turtles and, of course, the Kona coffee.