Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim has announced that beach parks on the island will reopen on Tuesday, subject to approval by Governor David Ige.  The Mayor plans to submit his Rule Number 5, which includes reopening the beaches, to Gov. Ige today.  The Rule, which has not yet been released, also includes which activities are permissible at the beach parks.

At a press conference this afternoon, Gov. Ige said he will be approving mayoral requests to reopen businesses and facilities, subject to the Beyond Recovery:  Reopening Hawaii plan that he released this afternoon.  Beaches have already been opened in the other counties, but are still subject to physical distancing and the requirement that groups of 10 family members are the limit for any group gatherings.

The only exceptions to the reopening are Hakalau Beach Park and Kūhiō Kalaniana‘ole Park, which have been closed due to necessary improvement work. The Mayor is working with the Department of Parks and Recreation to determine the next phase of County facilities to reopen, such as tennis courts, pickleball courts, etc.

Although the County beach parks will reopen, the threat of COVID-19 is still present and we must do all we can to remain safe.  The Mayor said that all beachgoers must follow the safe practices stated in the CDC guidelines and Hawai‘i County Rules.

“Know the importance of staying mentally, physically and social healthy with these rules,” the Mayor said.

For further information, please call Civil Defense at 935-0031.