HONOLULU (KHON2) — Overnight camping at Bellows Field Beach Park will be suspended for the summer, according to the City and County of Honolulu and Marine Corps Base Hawaii.
The closure comes as the sea turtle nesting period nears and will start Wednesday, April 30, through Aug. 28.
Beachgoers will still be allowed access to Bellows during the day, but will not be able to camp overnight or use the bathroom and shower facilities.
During this season, honu use the shoreline to nest, incubate and hatch their hatchlings.
Officials said various human activities, such as illegal beach off-roading, camping fires, off-leash dogs, illegal trash dumping or the presence of artificial lighting, can threaten their safety.
If a nesting site is confirmed, the area will be sectioned off from human activity. Signage will be posted with information on the nesting site.
As of now, permitted camping is expected to return by Aug. 29, but the suspension could be extended through September if an active nesting site is seen.
Beachgoers who may witness disturbing or illegal behavior against the turtles or nests should call (808) 285-9529 or (808) 257-2123.
Check out more news from around Hawaii
Cabins and campsite rentals are still available for active-duty military, veterans and Department of Defense employees.
For more information, click HERE.