(Photo courtesy of Visionary Video)

Hawaii 24/7 Staff

Residents aren’t see a change, but visitors now are paying to park at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area.

Hapuna’s 62-acres draw scores of swimmers, bodyboarders, picnickers and campers. It is one the Big Island’s most popular sandy beaches among residents and visitors.

Operated by Republic Parking, the parking booth began collecting fees Monday, April 1 from visitors who arrived via vehicle and commercial vehicles. The fee is $5 for visitors and up to $40 for tour buses.

“Visitors are happy to pay and really enjoy the park here, state residents everything is the same continue to enjoy the park as you always have,” said Ben Wesley, Republic Parking regional manager.

Wesley said the funds will help offset costs to maintain the park area. The fee is expected to generate up to $200,000 annually.

Meanwhile, the Division of State Parks spends more than $700,000 annually operating Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area — including $254,178 for personnel and utilities, and $465,785 to the county for lifeguard services.

The Big Island’s Akaka Falls, Nuuanu Pali Lookout on Oahu, and Iao Valley on Maui already charge visitors, generating approximately $700,000 a year.

Those funds are divided between all state parks to pay for operating costs.

The state also is considering charging fees at Haena and Kokee parks on Kauai, and at Makena Beach Park on Maui.

Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is open 7 a.m.-8 p.m. daily.

— Find out more:
www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/hawaii/index.cfm?park_id=44

(Photo courtesy of Visionary Video)

(Photo courtesy of Visionary Video)