If you’re dreaming of sunny days on Kauaʻi’s famous shores, there’s a new rule you should know before hitting the beach. In an environmentally landmark move, Kauaʻi County Mayor Derek SK Kawakami signed Bill no. 2976 on December 10, 2025, which will ban the sale, rental and distribution of disposable polystyrene foam bodyboards islandwide.
This may sound like a small policy change, but for locals, visitors, business owners and ocean lovers alike, it marks a significant shift in how Hawaii’s communities are choosing to protect their beaches and marine ecosystems.
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Kauai Country Press Release
What is prohibited
Under the new ordinance, disposable styrofoam bodyboards, which are the cheap, lightweight boards commonly sold at beach shops, will no longer be able to be sold, rented or surrendered anywhere in Kauaʻi County. The ban does not go into effect immediately, but will begin one year after the bill is passed, giving local businesses and vendors time to adapt and transition to alternative products.
Foam was previously banned in January 2022 for all food-related uses, including cups, plates and bowls (with exceptions for food prepared off-island and shipped in, and for containers used to pack raw or butchered meat, poultry, fish and eggs). After this ban occurred under Act 2775, all four counties in Hawaii had official Styrofoam food bans, making Hawaii a “foam-free” state, one of only five in the US.
The law creates a new environmental section in the Kauaʻi County Code aimed at reducing pollution and protecting coastal habitats. It also establishes civil penalties for violations, including increasing fines for businesses that do not comply once the law takes effect. Law enforcement is expected to be handled by the county’s Public Works Solid Waste Department, with further legal action possible through the County Attorney’s Office.
“This ordinance reflects our responsibility to care for Kaua’i’s environment. By encouraging sustainable alternatives, we reduce waste, protect marine life and ensure our islands remain beautiful for generations to come,” said Councilwoman Fern Holland, who introduced the bill.
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Why Kauaʻi is taking this step
At the heart of the ban is concern for the island’s environment. Disposable Styrofoam boards, often inexpensive and popular with casual beachgoers, are usually only used a few times before being thrown away. But that lightweight foam material doesn’t just disappear. Over time, these plates can break into tiny fragments, which are then carried by wind and waves into the ocean, on shore, or in landfills.
Once in the environment, these tiny particles, often referred to as microplastics, pose a real threat to wildlife. Seabirds, fish, turtles and other marine animals can mistakenly ingest this debris, resulting in digestive problems, starvation or even death. Fragmented foam can also entangle wildlife and contribute to larger pollution problems that harm reefs, beaches and even water quality.
Mayor Kawakami summed up the rationale succinctly: “Disposable bodyboards may seem small, but their impact has been anything but small. By eliminating Styrofoam boards from stores and rentals, we are protecting our beaches, ocean and wildlife that call Kaua’i home.”
Unsplash – Luke McKeown
Alternatives I can use on the beach
Just because disposable bodyboards are on the way out doesn’t mean you have to give up on beach fun altogether. In fact, Bill 2976 itself encourages more sustainable alternatives.
Instead of polystyrene boards, the ordinance recommends bodyboards made of higher-density, more durable materials, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene. These materials are more durable, meaning they don’t break down as easily and have a smaller environmental footprint over their lifetime.
Many experienced riders already prefer these more robust boards because they offer better performance, last for years instead of days, and can even be rented or resold. Local surf shops and rentals on Kauaʻi are expected to adjust their inventory to stock these greener options before the ban goes into effect.
For tourists, this could also be an opportunity: Hotels, vacation rentals and tour companies may start offering board rentals or lending guests sustainable boards, making it easier to enjoy Kauaʻi’s surf without contributing to pollution.
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A sustainable tourism model
Kauaʻi’s bodyboard ban might seem niche, but it reflects a broader shift in how coastal communities manage tourism and natural resources. As beaches around the world face increasing pollution and climate pressures, local governments are increasingly looking for balanced solutions that protect nature while allowing people to enjoy outdoor recreation.
By phasing out cheap, disposable beach gear and promoting longer-lasting alternatives, Kauaʻi hopes to set an example for sustainable beach culture in Hawaii and beyond.
So the next time you visit, don’t be surprised if that classic foam bodyboard you once knew is gone. But with the right board in hand and a little more awareness, you’ll help protect the waves, wildlife, and wonders that make Kauaʻi’s beaches truly special.
This story was originally published by TravelHost on December 15, 2025, where it first appeared in News. Add TravelHost as a preferred source by clicking here.