3 Beaches to Close Early for New Year’s Eve

Hawaii Islanders hoping to ring in the new year at some of the state’s most popular beach parks may want to re-think their party plans.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) will close Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, Kekaha Kai State Park and Kiholo State Park Reserve early on New Year’s Eve, Monday, December 31, 2012.

“We are closing the park early to discourage use of fireworks, which is prohibited in state parks, and to protect the public and natural resources of the area,” said  DLNR Chairperson, William J. Aila, Jr.

The beaches are scheduled to close at 5 pm, and will resume operations on Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013 with the following schedule: Kekaha Kai State Park will open at 9 a.m., Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area and Kiholo State Park will reopen at 7 a.m.