State Issues Temporary Ban on Kayaks, Surfboards at Kealakekua Bay

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources announced today that it will institute a temporary moratorium on kayaks, surfboards and other devices at Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, starting on Jan. 2, 2013.

The DLNR noted an increase in unpermitted kayak rentals being conducted at Napo`opo`o as part of the reason for the moratorium. The department cited diminished public enjoyment and potential damage to resources as reasons for the temporary ban.

The ban also affects watercraft such as stand-up paddle boards and boogie boards. However, those devices can still be used outside the closed area.

Swimming and snorkeling will still be allowed in the bay, but no landing or launching of the banned water craft will be tolerated.

Specific vessels with existing permits will be allowed, however. Once certain planned management and regulatory action is completed, the launching and landing of
kayaks at Napo`opo`o and Ka`awaloa Flats will be allowed, but will require a permit regardless of whether the activity is commercial or recreational.

The DLNR is apparently working on an online permitting system.