A sign on Waikiki Beach could cost a catamaran company $10K

WAIKIKI (HawaiiNewsNow) - The Department of Land and Natural Resources is suggesting the maximum fine against a catamaran company over illegal beach advertising.

In October 2017, DLNR DOCARE officers found a sign advertising catamaran rides on Waikiki Beach. The state says the sign was located on the sand near the Moana Surfrider Hotel — a violation of Hawaii's advertising laws that prohibit beach advertising.

The sign belonged to Manu Kai Catamaran, and advertised tour types, prices and booking information.

When DOCARE officers noticed the sign on Oct. 4, they informed employees it was a violation of state law and instructed them to remove it.

After initially refusing, employees complied and removed the sign.

But when DOCARE officers checked back shortly after, the sign was back up. Officers then filed a report.

The land board will take up the case against company owner John Savio. He may be fined $10,000, the maximum fine allowed, for the violation.

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