There are awesome places in Maui where the economic, housing, and safety of living prospects are good, but there are some areas one must avoid because of its high crime rate, or weather problems.
No matter where you live, the dangers of roaming about some areas should not be overlooked.
If you are thinking of Maui, there are some places you should avoid for your safety. Below we detail what you need to know.
Is Maui a Crime-free Island?
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Maui has the highest crime rates amongst the four major Islands of Hawaii.
The total crime index in 2019 was 3,244, a reduction in total crimes from the previous year.
So, no, Maui is not crime-free. Though, with over 3 million visitors to the island in 2019, it’s almost inevitable that Maui would see some crime.
Which Places In Maui Has High Crime Rates?
Kahului, Maui:
Kahului is a census-designated place (CDP) in Maui County of Hawaii with a population of 30,164. For every 100,000 residents, 12.18% of crimes occur daily in Kahului.
Although crime has decreased gradually throughout the Island, it hasn’t made much difference in Kahului.
Violent crime has a record of 371 per 100,000 people while property crime records 3650 per 100,000 people.
The total crime in Kahului is more than the national average by 54%.
The total crime record is an estimated value of 3967 per 100,000 residents as the nation records 2580 per 100,000 people. So if you are looking for a smooth sailing place to pass time in Maui, Kahului is not the place.
Napili-Honokowai, Maui:
With a population of just over 6,700, at least 10% of people are living below the poverty line. Property crime is all too common in Napili-Honokowai.
An average of 19.38% of property crimes occur per 1,000 residents. That may seem high but the average crime rates here are 6% lower than Hawaii’s average. Although its crime rate is much lower than that of Kahului..
Happy Valley, Maui:
Many people say the ironic expression “Happy Valley is not happy at all.” Happy Valley is known as one of the most dangerous places and a base of criminals in Maui.
The area isn’t functional economically because of its extreme illegal activities such as prostitution, vandalism, gang-related crimes, drug dealing, and violence.
Residents are not so friendly to locals, so don’t expect them to be friendly to visitors. And if you happen to make a wrong turn into the area, make a U-turn at Takamiya Market and go back the way you came.
Pakuz, Maui:
Pakuz is about half the size of Happy Valley, and it is located in the suburbs of Wailuku Town just off of Lower main street. This area is known for its low income and drug dealing activities.
One might think this area is a sanctuary of beautiful beaches because of its proximity to the ocean but don’t be deceived. The beach around this area also has dangerous powerful undercurrents.
Lower Main Street/Wailuku Industrial area, Wailuku Maui:
This area lies just above Pakuz, and it’s as dangerous as other areas. It’s home to hostess bars, establishments that charge a high fee for their drinks in exchange for female companionship.
This area is most dangerous at night because of drunkards, especially drunk drivers. So, you better avoid this area at night times to avoid accidents and harassment.
Harbor Lights:
Harbor Lights is a condo complex located between Maui College and Kahului harbor, and is infamous for drug activities and prostitution.
Confrontations and violence frequently ensue.
How To Avoid Being A Victim Of Crime In Maui?
Maui is generally a safe place, but you still need to take precautions to stay safe in Maui. Below are a few precautions you need to take to avoid being a Victim:
- First and most importantly, avoid the areas listed above as bad parts of Maui.
- Do not talk to suspicious strangers.
- Avoid walking around alone at night.
- If you happen to wander into these dangerous areas, go back to where you came from gently and quietly.
- Avoid interaction with strangers that move in groups in a secluded area.
If you notice that you are in danger and you have the chance to make a quick phone call, call the 911 emergency line.
