Due to the movement of the monk seal at Poipu Beach Park, much of the beach and swimming areas have been blocked off to the public, according to a county spokesperson. Kaua‘i Fire Department Ocean Safety Bureau officials temporarily closed
Due to the movement of the monk seal at Poipu Beach Park, much of the beach and swimming areas have been blocked off to the public, according to a county spokesperson.
Kaua‘i Fire Department Ocean Safety Bureau officials temporarily closed the beach area toward Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club and the Sheraton Kauai Resort. The “kiddie pool” at Poipu Beach Park is the only area that remains open at this time. Federal laws mandate the distance people must keep from the monk seal, and the animals can sometimes exhibit dangerous or aggressive behavior if humans or other animals get too close, according to biologists. The beach closing protects the public as well as the monk seal, a county spokesperson said. Poipu Beach Park is a county facility. The public will be notified when beach areas are reopened. The county spokesperson said county officials appreciate the community’s cooperation and understanding.
