Navigating the pristine ocean-side trails of Kaena Point State Park -- where the land is dotted with native vegetation, and sand and rock meet the oftentimes turbulent ocean -- offers one of those "a-ha" experiences only found in Hawaii.
Unfortunately, this nearly three-mile stretch of coastline has been under siege -- no thanks to the increasing number of four-wheel-drive, off-roading activities that have damaged the area's fragile ecosystem. As a result, future access to the park is in doubt in an effort to preserve the area.
Military personnel are encouraged to take proactive measures to protect this fragile ecosystem, and avoid off-roading in this area.
Only people who have an approved vehicle access permit are able to drive on designated roads within the park. The state's Department of Land and Natural Resources manages the permit system.
Permits are available during regular working hours at the Division of State Parks office at 1151 Punchbowl Street in Honolulu. Permits are valid 24-hours a day, 365-days a year unless the park is closed for emergency reasons. Visit http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/kaena-point-state-park/ for more information.