The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will close Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area early on New Year's Eve to discourage use of fireworks in the park.

The Hapuna recreation area, including the Waialea Bay section, will close at 6 p.m. tomorrow. The Kekaha Kai State Park-Kaulana-Mahai'ula and Manini'owali sections are normally closed all day on Wednesdays.

Fireworks are prohibited in state parks, and the early closing is meant to protect the public and the area's natural resources, said DLNR chairwoman Laura H. Thielen.

Normal park hours will resume Thursday with Kekaha Kai State Park open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.