The Captain's Hat is obtained after Link awakens and defeats Captain Keeta. Link must awaken Captain Keeta from where he rests near the Ikana Graveyard using the "Sonata of Awakening." After he defeats Captain Keeta, he will submit to Link's power,and tell him of the defeat he suffered while serving as the commander of the Ikana Army. After making his final request, he shows the hero a Treasure Chest containing the Captain's Hat and takes his leave. Link must then use the Hookshot or jump across the bridge guardrails to claim it.

The Captain's Hat is designed to resemble Captain Keeta, and as such, displays itself as a symbol of authority. When Link wears it, he is immediately mistaken for Captain Keeta. This causes Stalchildren to not attack Link, and also allows him to communicate with them and take command. This can be used in the Ikana Graveyard to open the graves that lead Beneath the Graveyard. In here, Link can find the "Song of Storms," a Piece of Heart, and a Bottle (or another Piece of Heart in Majora's Mask 3D). Link can also use the Captain's Hat in the Oceanside Spider House to obtain another Piece of Heart by solving the secret puzzle of the house.

The Captain's Hat can also be used to make ReDeads dance, ignoring Link.