LIHU‘E – Most state parks in Hawai‘i are now open for camping, but Napali Coast and Polihale are still closed.
The state Department of Land and Natural Resources said has lessened restrictions and reopening park areas in compliance with various county-specific rules and guidelines.
On Kaua‘i, all parks have reopened, including popular lookouts in Koke‘e/Waimea Canyon and Wailua River State Park — save for two. Polihale State Park is closed due to road repairs and Napali Coast State Wilderness Park remains closed to the public.
DLNR said camping and lodging in Koke‘e State Park is now available, subject to COVID-19 restrictions. Reservations are now open, and limited to a 30-day advance window, and all groups must be members of the same household.
For non-coronavirus reasons, other Kaua‘i camping opportunities remain closed but are anticipated to be available soon, for camping dates opening on June 16.
Commercial boat tours, including kayak tours within Wailua River State park and Zodiac Tours to Napali Coast (Nu‘alolo Kai) have been authorized to resume operations, subject to COVID-19 restrictions.
DLNR said passive beach use is now allowed at all State Parks beaches, although some gates will remain locked for resource management, people’s safety and due to fiscal constraints.
COVID-19 rules and social distancing guidelines remain in effect, following each county’s emergency orders.
According to DLNR, State Park camping and lodging will be phased in more slowly, again in compliance with county restrictions, but it is anticipated most overnight facilities will be open by July 1. State Park lodging and camping facilities are not allowable quarantine locations.
“We are pleased that Hawai‘i has been so successful in flattening the COVID-19 curve, which allows us to reopen more park areas – particularly some overnight opportunities, which lets families further enjoy Hawai‘i’s outdoors”, said State Parks Administrator Curt Cottrell. “However, please be aware that restrictions on park hours, group size, and certain activities remain in place, and we ask that all parks users adhere to these so we can keep slowly proceeding back to normal”.
For a full list of all parks status and restrictions, please visit: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/
How long has Polihale been closed? How long does it take to grade a road? Come on. Locals got out last Time and got it done. That shouldn’t have to be the only way road improvements get done.