Cook Landing Site, National Historic Landmark in Waimea, Kauai, US.

Cook Landing Site is a historic location in Waimea on Kauai where one of the first meetings between Europeans and Hawaiians took place. The area near the Waimea River mouth is marked today with interpretive signs and a memorial plaque that explain what happened here.

In January 1778, Captain James Cook and his ships arrived at this coast, marking the first European contact with the Hawaiian Islands. This landing started a chain of events that transformed the islands and their people in lasting ways.

Hofgaard Park, one block inland from the shore, holds a statue of James Cook erected in 1928 for the 150th anniversary of the landing, along with commemorative plaques. The park is the focus of annual observances of the January 20, 1778 arrival.

The site is easy to reach and clearly marked, making it simple for visitors to locate and understand its historical importance. Taking time to read the informational signs and look around the surrounding area helps you get the most from your visit.

The exact spot where Cook came ashore is unknown: sediment has built up since 1778, so the landing point is thought to lie inland of today's shoreline, near Lucy Wright Park. Hofgaard Park, a block from the shore and a block from the river, holds the Cook statue and commemorative plaques.