Waikīkī beach to open fully following monk seal relocation

Ropes and monk seal caution signs are being removed from Kaimana Beach in Honolulu, after a Hawaiian monk seal pup has been moved, after weaning over the weekend.

A roped perimeter was established for Pualani and her mother from the time the pup was born on April 14, with narrow strips of sand on both sides of the beach for entering and exiting the ocean.

In addition, officers from the Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement have provided around-the-clock safety and enforcement for the seals and people swimming, snorkeling, and paddling in the ocean off Kaimana Beach.

The Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement’s presence has ended with Pualani’s relocation to an undisclosed location on Oʻahu.

Pualani is the fourth pup born at Kaimana Beach since 2017. Future births and pre-weaning periods there will likely prompt a resumption of a broad cordon and a 24-hour Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement overwatch.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources, the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, Hawai‘i Marine Animal Response, the City and County of Honolulu Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Division, and other partners stated appreciation for everyone’s consideration and patience during the seal’s presence in Waikīkī.

Being able to see Hawaiian monk seals in the wild is a special experience. These endangered seals are only found here in the islands. People should enjoy these seals while following safe viewing guidelines—50 feet for individual monk seals and 150 feet from monk seal mothers with pups. Harassing or threatening endangered species like monk seals is a violation of federal and state laws. Report seal sightings to 1-888-256-9840.