Court upholds decision
on Hanauma fees

An appeals court yesterday affirmed a federal judge's 2002 decision that allows the city to legally charge out-of-state visitors to visit Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, even if local residents get in free.

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals said the fee, which is currently $5 for tourists, serves a significant public interest and meets constitutional requirements.

It also recognized the popular snorkeling spot as "a place of rare natural beauty, a treasure to be cherished."

"Our efforts to preserve and protect this fragile marine environment have been met by one protest after another over the years," Mayor Jeremy Harris said.

"There has been an incredible effort to stop this project when all we have wanted to do was to protect this natural wonder for generations to come."