City to host
brunches on
Waikiki Beach

It is hoped the monthly
events will be a shot in
the arm for tourism

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By Gordon Y.K. Pang
gpang@starbulletin.com

A monthly "brunch on the beach" will close a section of Kalakaua Avenue in front of Kuhio Beach beginning July 15.

The program, to take place on the second Sunday of each month, will feature food booths and local entertainment sponsored in large part by members of the Waikiki Improvement Association.

Three of the four lanes of Kalakaua Avenue, from Kaiulani to Liliuokalani avenues, will be blocked off for umbrella-shaded tables and chairs. The remaining lane will be open for emergency vehicles only.

Administration officials were not available to comment on how long the street will be closed during each event.

"It will be kind of like a hoolaulea," said Sam Bren, chairman of the Waikiki Neighborhood Board.

Bren said the program is just the latest in a series of improvements proposed by Mayor Jeremy Harris to promote Hawaii's main tourism destination.

He cited restoration of the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium and the Kapiolani Park Bandstand and the widening of Kuhio Beach as other examples.

Locals, he said, are already coming to to watch city-sponsored torch-lighting ceremonies each night at Kuhio Beach.

Bren said Waikiki residents are already used to the closing of Kalakaua for various parades and block parties.

Rick Egged, president of the Waikiki Improvement Association, said the program hopes to draw residents to the area while giving visitors another activity.

"And then we'll be able to feature some of the good food we have in Waikiki," Egged said.