To the Forum:It was a great surprise to learn from people at a luau that Hanalei Bay was closed to swimming between Saturday and Monday. My family, including 4 small children, swam at Hanalei Bay on Sunday evening. We saw
To the Forum:It was a great surprise to learn from people at a luau that
Hanalei Bay was closed to swimming between Saturday and Monday. My family,
including 4 small children, swam at Hanalei Bay on Sunday evening. We saw no
warning signs as we picnicked at Hanalei Beach Park. We saw no signs near the
restrooms. We saw no signs as we walked past the pier and set our towels on
the beach.
Looking back, it was rather odd that my four little kids were
some of the only ones splashing and swimming in the bay. No passersby
mentioned sharks or suggested we stay out of the water. Perhaps the
authorities felt the closing was well publicized. Apparently all the local
residents knew, but we’ve been too busy enjoying your beautiful island to watch
TV, listen to the radio, or read the paper. It scares me to think what might
have happened as my children swam in the vicinity of 8-12 foot tiger
sharks!
Please make more of an attempt to warn the tourists of dangers.
More signs posted along the beach would be helpful. Don’t assume that tourists
are keeping up with the news, and please encourage island residents to warn
tourists of any dangers.
Sincerely,
Michelle Barry and Joel
Schnoor
Apex, NC
