Hawaiʻi residents voice concern over beach, hiking access

HONOLULU (KHON2) — When KHON2.com’s Unfit Adventurer embarked on trekking up the Kuliʻouʻou Ridge Trail, we met some unique characters.

None more interesting than local neighborhood board member and business owner Kevin Mulkern.

Mulkern is becoming more and more concerned over access to Hawaii’s gorgeous landscape and how it will impact the quality of life for residents.

He shared his insights on the changing landscape of Oʻahu and the challenges faced by residents due to increased tourism and outdoor activities.

Mulkern reminisced about living on Ke Nui Road on Oʻahu’s North Shore, where international surfing contests at Ehukai Beach Park brought unimaginable traffic and challenges.

“People have no idea what traffic is until you’ve lived next to Ehukai Beach Park when the surf’s up,” he said.

He mentioned that the city purchased his property to expand the park by 30%, addressing the need for additional space.

Mulkern understands the frustrations of residents near the Kuliʻouʻou trailhead and the Haʻikū Stairs.

He believes that providing more access, bathrooms, water and garbage cans could reduce most of the problems, similar to the approach taken at Ehukai Beach Park.

He suggests that the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority could use part of its $60 million budget to offer free shuttle services from city bus stops to alleviate parking issues.

He also pointed out how residents on Paiko Drive are following Lanikai’s example of banning parking on weekends to manage the influx of visitors.

At the end of Kuliʻouʻou Road, a locked gate prevents access to the Piko Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary.

Despite the city purchasing property to ensure public access, nothing has been done to make it accessible.

Mulkern praised the Makapuʻu Lighthouse public park as an excellent example of prioritizing spending, public safety and investments in native plants.

However, he highlighted the mismanagement of funds, where $250,000 was spent on public bathrooms, yet a similar amount was wasted on dead plants due to a lack of maintenance.

Mulkern emphasized the importance of basic amenities like bathrooms, adequate parking and trash receptacles. He expressed concern for families crossing busy streets, especially in low light conditions, which poses a significant risk.

Mulkern believes that improving public access to outdoor areas requires thoughtful planning and investment in essential infrastructure.

His experiences and suggestions provide valuable insights into managing the balance between tourism and resident well-being on Oʻahu.