Driving four-wheel-drive vehicles on remote Polihale Beach should be allowed, but only if Kauaians use that amazing privilege responsibly and avoid abusing it. In recent weeks, we have received numerous letters to the editor and comments to our Web site
Driving four-wheel-drive vehicles on remote Polihale Beach should be allowed, but only if Kauaians use that amazing privilege responsibly and avoid abusing it.
In recent weeks, we have received numerous letters to the editor and comments to our Web site arguing in favor of traditional — at least in recent decades — access to the shoreline at the island’s western-most point.
Polihale lovers have said they drive their trucks on the sand to go fishing, surfing and camping. They also go to revel in the natural beauty of one of Kaua‘i’s most peaceful spots — in the shadow of Na Pali and miles from civilization.
These beach-driving advocates have said the truck access has assisted in ocean rescues and allowed elderly or handicapped beachgoers to enjoy the hot Westside sand and sun.
They have demanded the state Department of Land and Natural Resources allow continued vehicle access to the dunes and have criticized enforcement efforts to curtail it.
We can appreciate the beauty of Polihale and the desire to spend time there — it’s one of our favorite spots too. And unlike tighter locales like Wailua Beach — where a truck ran over a beachgoer in January, sending her to the hospital — Polihale is so long at 17 miles and so wide that there should be plenty of space for everybody to roam without much danger.
As long as drivers use the privilege responsibly.
This means not treating the beach like a Mana drag strip, joyriding up and down it after a few beers. It means taking your trash when you leave. And most of all, it means respecting those around you.
As a matter of principle, we can advocate for limited government involvement when it comes to matters of personal preference. But when it comes to matters of public safety and public welfare, then it is permissible for DLNR or any other county or state agency to step in and protect us from each other.
So if you are one of thousands of Kaua‘i’s residents and visitors who have spent time on the sand at Polihale and hope to continue taking advantage of that privilege, you should do so responsibly and encourage your friends and family to do the same.
Some anti-beach-driving sentiment has been spurred by reckless, irresponsible and disrespectful behavior. When DLNR is repeatedly alerted to potential lawbreaking, they have little choice but to take a stand.
Laws on the books should generally be enforced — selective enforcement can be a slippery slope — but we’re OK with the state focusing its resources on higher-priority items, especially with the budget as tight as it is. Let’s not put officials in the position where their hands are tied.
It’s unfortunate when a few bad apples ruin the fun for everyone. If you end up at Polihale soon, do your part to keep the access rules lax by exercising a little self-control and enjoying the beach responsibly.
