In anticipation of the upcoming annual sea turtle nesting period, the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation and Marine Corps Base Hawaii will suspend overnight camping at Bellows Field Beach Park from April 30 through Aug. 28.

Permitted camping will return Aug. 29, however, the suspension of overnight camping may extend through September if there is an active honu nesting site along the stretch of Waimanalo Beach. Updates will be provided as the popular Labor Day weekend approaches.

The suspension also applies to twilight use of the bathroom and shower facilities.

Regular weekend day-use will continue, as will weekday military training exercises with proper protection measures put in place at identified nesting sites to restrict use of those areas. Once a nesting site is confirmed, the area around it will be marked with cordons to keep people away.

DPR officials say the suspension and restrictions are necessary to ensure the safety of the federally protected, culturally significant endangered species as they nest, incubate and hatch along the shoreline.

Human activities that threaten the safety of the nesting turtles such as illegal beach off-roading, camping fires, off-leash dogs, illegal dumping of trash, and the presence of artificial lighting have been documented by members of the community, military and park officials.

The community is asked to report any disturbing or illegal behavior against the turtles or nests by calling 808-285-9529 or 808-257-2123.

Honu nesting sites have been documented along this particular stretch of shoreline since 2020, coinciding with pandemic park closures when restrictions kept people away from the beach.

DPR operates 17 campgrounds throughout the island. Visit the DPR camping reservation webpage for information on the other 16 campgrounds and how to apply for a camping permit.