Officials in South Maui are intensifying efforts to address rising issues of illegal camping and trespassing at Po’olenalena Beach Park, a popular spot also known as “Chang’s Beach.” Over recent months, complaints have mounted regarding an influx of homeless individuals setting up encampments, exacerbating existing challenges.
Local resident Crystal Aregi acknowledged the hardships faced by those camping at the park, attributing their presence partly to the high cost of living in Hawai’i. “It’s definitely a big struggle here right now,” she remarked, highlighting the financial pressures even for those employed full-time.
In addition to homelessness, concerns over criminal activities have surfaced, with reports of trespassers cutting locks on parking lot gates. Tom Cook, councilmember for the area, expressed frustration over the difficulty in enforcing park rules, noting that personnel are unable to secure gates if vehicles remain unattended after closing hours. Coordination efforts with Maui Police and the parks department are underway to address these issues, including plans to tow vehicles left overnight.
Moreover, the unauthorized rental of mobile campers by visitors has further complicated matters, prompting Cook to urge the public to use designated campgrounds instead. Po’olenalena Beach Park operates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with ongoing efforts aimed at maintaining safety and order amidst mounting challenges.
Efforts to manage these issues underscore the complex balance between public access and enforcement of regulations in Maui’s cherished coastal areas.