Imagine Honolulu Without its Beaches

Can you imagine Honolulu without its beaches? Well, the beaches are not actually disappearing. But they are closed to the public until September 4th. Parks and trails (with few exceptions) are also off-limits as COVID-19 cases have spiked on Oahu, prompting authorities to act in an effort to prevent large gatherings of people in public spaces.

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, beaches, parks, and trails across the U.S. have become very popular as more and more people venture outside for recreation. Numerous articles and studies have also documented how people are spending more time outdoors for their physical and mental health and well-being. Thus understandably, some Honolulu residents are disappointed and frustrated by the government's decision.

As Christy Stanton, one of the individuals interviewed for this Honolulu Advertiser article, said “I understand about the need to stop the virus from surging, but I think parks are where people can exercise and keep social distance in small household groups — we need it especially when people aren’t working and are cooped up.” There are, however, exceptions to the closures. Most notably, surfers are still allowed to get in the water; they are just not allowed to hang out on the beach. This provision is keeping those who surf happy, with their sentiments captured by Sean Steele who said the closures “don’t really affect me, I just surf.”

The next few weeks will be tough for Honolulu residents. After all, spending time in the beautiful outdoors is a key component of the slowed-down, low-stress island lifestyle. Let's hope that the closures will help to stop the spread of COVID-19 in Honolulu and that residents will be able to return to their beloved beaches, parks, and trails soon.