Multiple sources report that the Pilikahakai Foundation and West Maui resort managers have unveiled a plan to restore Kaanapali Beach, one of Maui’s most iconic shorelines. The proposal aims to reverse significant erosion caused by rising sea levels and increased wave energy by redistributing offshore sand back onto the beach. The project would restore the shoreline to conditions last seen in 1988, when the beach extended 40–50 feet further offshore.
- The Pilikahakai Foundation and resort managers are proposing a large-scale beach nourishment project for Kaanapali Beach.
- The plan calls for moving 75,000 cubic yards of sand from the nearshore area back onto the shoreline.
- Approximately 50,000 cubic yards of sand would be placed between Hanakaoo Beach Park and Hanakaoo Point, widening the beach by 41 to 78 feet.
- An additional 25,000 cubic yards would be added between Hanakaoo Point and Puu Kekaa, raising the beach berm elevation by about 3.5 feet.
- The project also includes creating stabilizing protodunes and planting native vegetation along the restored shoreline.
- Over 30 years of scientific monitoring data documents the accelerating erosion and increased wave energy affecting the area.
- Project supporters say the restoration would deliver both economic and community benefits for West Maui.
Sources
- KHON2: West Maui nonprofit unveils plan to restore Kaanapali Beach
- Yahoo: West Maui nonprofit unveils plan to restore Kā’anapali Beach as erosion worsens
Share this article
