They will tell their friends at home of an unspoiled oasis of greenery, brackish water ponds, great surf and sand in a lava covered desert. These ponds once provided fish in ancient times and recreational swimming opportunities for adults and keikis on days the surf is too rough at the beach. These waters are now foul smelling and uninviting. We could hire a lifeguard to help make this beach a safer place. The County Council recently hosted a presentation by experts from UH Manoa on beach erosion, beach preservation and restoration.
Preservation is the most economical and environmentally friendly.
Paving this beach is one of the most destructive ways to treat this treasure. It is also one the most costly roads to take in the long run. Those responsible for maintaining the road said it would be very costly and difficult to maintain. When I have spoken with Public Works staff, they also talked of paving a foot trail on the beach if no road is built. I suggested that, this too, isn't a sensible idea.