Downward Angle Icon An icon in the shape of a downward angle. The Haiku Stairs on the Hawaiian island of Oahu have long attracted tourists who climb them illegally. Authorities have decided to remove the landmark, which has become famous on social media, due to concerns about over-tourism. Last week, five people were arrested as visitors who flock to see the staircase before it disappears.
At least five people have been arrested and dozens more issued warnings as tourists flock to Hawaii’s World War II-era landmarks that are being destroyed by overtourism.
The Haiku Staircase, also known as the “Stairway to Heaven,” climbs nearly 4,000 steps along the ridge of Oahu’s Koolau Mountains. The U.S. Navy built a steep metal staircase leading to the 800-foot peak to reach the Naval Radio Station during World War II.
Previously open to authorized climbers, the Haiku Staircase was permanently closed in 1987. However, some people continued to climb the stairs illegally.
In recent years, the place has become even more popular among tourists, with videos posted on TikTok and Instagram of people illegally climbing the stairs and telling others how to get to them.
In August 2021, the Honolulu City Council voted to remove the Haiku Staircase, despite resistance from some local residents who advocated preserving the structure. Reasons for the removal include trespassing on the stairs, causing a nuisance to local residents, and the city’s liability.
Hikers climb the Haiku Staircase, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, on Oahu, Hawaii.Agariza/Getty Images
When Hawaii officials announced that they would begin removing the Haiku Stairs in April, there was a renewed rush of tourists rushing to get there before they were gone forever.
On April 23, Honolulu police arrested five people and issued citations to 11 people for stair trespassing, local Hawaii News Now reported. CNN said another 60 people were given warnings.
Honolulu police did not immediately respond to Business Insider’s request for more information.
The stair removal project is expected to cost more than $2.5 million and take at least six months.
In the past, people climbing the stairs illegally have required dangerous rescues. In September, a woman and her dog were rescued after falling 50 feet while hiking the Hike Stairs Trail.
In October 2022, local broadcaster KHON2 reported that 118 people have been rescued from the Haiku Stairs since 2010.
