Homeless Issue

Question

The amount of homelessness was quite surprising to me in Kihei. My morning strolls on the beach has me coming across a lot of homeless people. Are they allowed to sleep on the beach? Is this something that should be reported or is it not illegal? There are signs along the shore forbidding it, but it doesn't appear it is enforced.

Answer

Hawaii, including Maui, has a visible homelessness issue, especially in areas like Kihei where beachfronts are popular. While signs may prohibit sleeping on the beach, enforcement can be inconsistent, and in many cases, camping or sleeping in public spaces is considered a civil matter rather than a criminal offense.

Here’s a more detailed overview:

Legal context: Maui County has ordinances prohibiting sleeping on public property overnight, but enforcement is limited and usually occurs in designated high-traffic areas. Many officers prioritize safety and outreach over immediate removal.
Reporting: If you encounter homeless individuals in distress, or if there is a safety concern, you can contact the Maui County non-emergency line (808-244-6400) or the Maui Police Department. Reporting purely because someone is sleeping on the beach without a threat or emergency is usually discouraged, as these situations are often better addressed by social services.
Support resources: There are organizations on Maui that provide shelter, food, and medical aid to the homeless. Examples include:

Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Center – provides temporary shelter and social services.
Maui Food Bank – offers food support and community resources.
City and County of Maui Outreach Team – coordinates with police and social workers to assist unsheltered residents.

Practical advice for visitors:

Be respectful of individuals experiencing homelessness; avoid confrontation.
Focus on your safety and belongings, especially on the beach early in the morning or late at night.
If you want to help, consider donating to local shelters or supporting volunteer programs.

In summary, while sleeping on the beach is technically against local ordinances, it is not heavily enforced in most areas like Kihei, and the focus tends to be on support rather than punitive action. Reporting should be reserved for situations involving immediate danger or medical emergencies.