Following multiple setbacks, the National Park Service recently announced that reopening is “closer than ever.” Efforts are now focused on creating a thoughtful and respectful approach to welcoming visitors back to this historic Hawaii site.
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30 thoughts on “Forbidden Hawaii Destination May Soon See Visitors”
How long until the criminal homeless-like they’re doing on Kauai-and entitled tourists just screw the place up again?
As a kama’aina who was fortunate to experience a brief visit to kalaupapa, including kalawao, in the early 2000s, idk if a national park is best option for opening the place up to the public. Unless access is strictly controlled and limited, the beautiful and spiritual essence of kalaupapa may be ruined. Like others have mentioned, also respect for the remaining and former residents/patients, including family and descendants, and their experiences and opinions should be of paramount importance. This tragic chapter of hawaiian history is clearly demanding kid-glove handling. Although perhaps the national park status is a done deal, I would vote to keep a lower-level park status, like reserve or preserve, if it would limit access and traffic. I would not open kalaupapa to the public before requiring all visitors to be educated similar to what has been established at Hanauma Bay. And please don’t allow it to become monetized, where only the affluent are allowed access.
Hawaii and the people that reside there are unique and fascinating. Remember to respect and honor them both when visiting. Keeping it a paradise depends so much on those who visit. My opinion is it is the most special place on earth.