Homeless Encampments at Kanahā Cleared

The entrance to Kanaha Beach Park. File photo by Wendy Osher.

The County of Maui departments of Parks and Recreation, Environmental Management, Public Works and Housing and Human Concerns collaborated with the Maui Police Department to address homeless encampments and public health/safety concerns Thursday morning at Kanahā Beach Park.

County officials implemented its “Compassionate Action Plan” on Thursday, May 30, in response to the encampments and concerns at Kanahā Beach Park. “Social workers with Family Life Center worked diligently to make housing and other services available to people who were staying at the beach,” county officials said in a press release.

Notices to vacate were reportedly issued on May 17.

“Our beaches need to be safe and available for everyone to enjoy,” Mayor Michael Victorino said. “I want to extend my thanks to everyone for undertaking this effort in a compassionate way for all involved. We appreciate our community’s understanding for the need to close Kanahā park during this time.”

Kanahā Beach Park was closed for cleaning and maintenance on the evening of Wednesday, May 29. It is expected to reopen on Friday, May 31, in the afternoon.