Is Hawaii Safe? A Comprehensive Guide to Safety in the Aloha State

When it comes to Hawaii, people think about beautiful sandy shores, adventurous water activities, green woods, and friendly people. However, before any Hawaiian traveler or anyone planning to move to Hawaii asks themselves, 'Is Hawaii safe to travel'?

This guide offers everything one needs to know about whether Hawaii, the 50th state in the United States of America, is safe. We will look at crime, natural calamities, health risks, and many other factors to assist you in deciding whether Hawaii is the place for you.

Is Hawaii Safe? Safety Overview

Hawaii is one of the most secure states in America and is not frequently the scene of violent crimes. FBI crime statistics show that Hawaii has the lowest violent crime and property crime incidence among all the states. Murder, rape, and assault are very low and are significantly lower than in large metropolitan areas of the United States.

If you are wondering if it is safe to travel to Hawaii right now, there is a crime, but it is more in the form of property crime, most of which are not very serious, such as pickpocketing, rather than breaking and entering or carjackings.

Hawaii's isolated location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean acts as a natural deterrent to crime, so the question of how safe Hawaii is ruled out completely. Its relatively small population spread out over several islands means there are few high-density urban areas with crime problems. Tight-knit local communities where neighbors support one another also promote safety and deter criminal activity.

Is Hawaii Tap Water Safe to Drink?

Most tap water in Hawaii is safe to consume directly from the tap without any prior boiling or filtering. Hawaii's year-round warm climate means groundwater aquifers that supply tap water do not freeze over in winter. This allows high turnover rates that prevent stagnation and growth of harmful bacteria.

Additionally, all municipal water supplies in Hawaii's major population centers undergo filtration and disinfection treatment, such as chlorination, before being piped to homes and businesses. Regular ongoing testing shows that Hawaiian tap water meets all EPA safety standards for drinking.

In rural areas, old homes and buildings may have antiquated plumbing systems with lead or bacterial contamination. Always check first before drinking tap water. Properties using rainwater catchment systems with storage tanks are prone to contamination if improperly maintained. Water from these systems should be boiled or chemically disinfected before drinking.

Is Hawaii a Safe Place to Live?

From its stunning scenery to welcoming culture, Hawaii is considered one of the top US states to live in. A major factor contributing to its desirability is that it is among the safest states in the country.

Low population density outside of Oahu means fewer dangerous high-density urban areas. Hawaii's location in the middle of the ocean isolates it from many of the safety issues facing mainland states.

According to FBI statistics, Hawaii has the lowest rates of rape, assault, murder, and other violent crimes in the United States. Property crime is also lower than the national average. The Aloha spirit of friendliness and community prevails across the islands.

Oahu is the most populated island. It does have some dangerous areas around Honolulu and urban spots affected by homelessness. But overall, the island is very safe, especially in communities like Kailua, Kaneohe, and the North Shore.

If you're still concerned about your safety in Hawaii, you might want to think about installing a battery-powered security camera around your property. The new Reolink Altas PT Ultra features 4K continuous recording and full-color night vision, making it a great choice for both day and night monitoring.

How Safe is Hawaii? Safety Concerns to Be Aware of in Hawaii

While quite safe overall, Hawaii does have some specific safety issues that visitors should be aware of:

• Natural Disasters - Hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis are the main environmental threats. Adhere to all evacuation orders and emergency protocols.
• Water Safety - Large waves, strong rip currents, and sharp reefs pose hazards, especially on north-facing shores. Only swim at lifeguarded beaches.
• Sun Safety - Hawaii's subtropical climate means intense sun exposure. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and limit exposure during peak hours.
• Ocean Safety - Rogue waves, sharks, and jellyfish require caution in Hawaiian waters. Heed warning signs and flags at beaches.
• Road Safety - Narrow, winding roads with limited shoulders warrant extra defensive driving. Drive slowly, and don't drink or drive.

Being mindful of these unique island hazards will help keep you safe on your Hawaiian adventure. Checking weather and surf conditions, swimming only at patrolled beaches, wearing sun protection, and taking roads slowly are key to staying secure.

How to Stay Safe When Travelling in Hawaii

To make sure your Hawaiian vacation is safe as well as fun, follow these tips:

Check Weather Conditions Before Starting

Check forecasts for storms, floods, surf, and potential natural disasters. Avoid venturing out in hazardous conditions, and give yourself extra transit time if conditions are less than ideal.

Wear Sun-Blocking Clothing Outdoors

Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, hats, and sunglasses during extended sun exposure. Seek shade between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.

Keep Valuables in Secure Places

Don't leave your belongings unattended on the beach while swimming or hiking. Keep valuables secured in your room or hotel safe when not being carried. Leaving enticing items visible in rental cars also attracts thieves.

Swim at Lifeguarded Beaches

Only swim where there are lifeguards who can identify rip currents, rogue waves, and other ocean hazards and assist if needed. Avoid remote shorelines.

Choose Well-Lit, Populated Areas

Avoid isolated areas and poorly lit streets after dark. Stick to well-lit roads and venues with people around. Ask your hotel for safety tips about surrounding neighborhoods. Exercise added caution when alone.

Follow Local Traffic Laws

Drive defensively as locals do. Allow extra stopping distance on curvy roads. Yield carefully to pedestrians and cyclists. Don't drink alcohol before driving, and avoid distractions like mobile phones.

Drink Bottled or Boiled Water

Drink only bottled, boiled, or chemically treated water to avoid bacterial or viral illness. This includes water used for brushing teeth, making ice, and washing fruits and vegetables.

FAQs on Hawaii Safety

How safe is it to vacation in Hawaii?

Hawaii is extremely safe. Its low crime rates and violent incidents are very rare, especially compared to major US cities. Exercise basic precautions and avoid high-risk areas.

Which Hawaiian island is safest?

Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Lanai, and Molokai are considered the safest islands, with low crime rates and isolated communities. Avoid poor areas of major cities.

Are Hawaiians friendly to tourists?

Yes, Hawaiians are very welcoming to tourists. The island's economy depends on tourism, so locals are usually happy to help visitors and ensure a safe, enjoyable trip.

Conclusion

Hawaii is a small island group, and despite this, it remains one of the safest places to visit and live in the United States of America. There is virtually no violent crime, but theft cases are not uncommon.

Preventing natural disasters, ocean perils, the sun, and roads will keep you safe if you follow smart precautions. This is true because Hawaii has always been known for its safety and warm hospitality. If visitors are careful, they will have a wonderful Hawaiian vacation without endangering their lives. Have you visited Hawaii? We’d love to hear about your experience—share it with us in the comments below!