File photo of Kua Bay in Kailua-Kona

HAWAII ISLAND – A number of popular beach parks in West Hawaii have closed early for New Years Eve.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources shut down Hapuna, Kiholo and Kekaha Kai (both Mahaiula and Kua Bay sections) at 5 p.m. on New Year’s Eve before the celebrations begin.

“We are closing the parks early to discourage use of fireworks, which are prohibited in state parks, and to protect the public and natural resources of the area,” said DLNR Chairperson Suzanne Case in a media release.

The parks will resume normal hours on Friday, Jan. 1, 2016 – Kekaha Kai (Mahaiula and Kua Bay sections) will open at 8 a.m. and Hapuna and Wailea from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.