Hawaii’s large coastline, world-class beaches, ample sunshine, good weather, and many hiking routes to explore the island’s visual splendor and old cultural treasures make living there a great experience. Despite these benefits, life in Hawaii has cons like anywhere else. Some struggle to afford the high expense of living. Urban regions have traffic problems, and “island fever” can make visitors restless after a short time on the islands.
Cautionary Areas After Dark
Hawaii has experienced a significant reduction in robbery, burglary, arson, and violent crime over the past decade, as reported by the Crime Prevention and Justice Assistance Division.
While the state boasts few incidents of violent crime, property crimes remain a concern.
Highlighting areas to avoid after dark, the National Drug Intelligence Center, AreaVibes.com, NeighborhoodScout.com, and SafeWise.com provide cautionary information.
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11 Dangerous Spots in Hawaii Once the Sun Sets
1. **Wahiawa, Oahu:** Known as Hawaii’s “armpit of Oahu,” Wahiawa grapples with a drug problem and ranks 10th in the state for crime, with rates exceeding the state average by 20%.
2. **Kapaa, Kauai:** Identified as a riskier area in Kauai, Kapaa sees a 1 in 28 crime likelihood, surpassing Hawaii’s average by 3%.
3. **Kahului, Maui:** Despite a statewide decline in crime, Kahului maintains steady rates, with 34.12 crimes per 1,000 residents—safer than only 11% of U.S. cities.
4. **Makaha, Oahu:** As the leeward Oahu census-designated area with the highest per capita crime rate, Makaha witnesses a crime every 12 hours and 20 minutes.
5. **Honokowai-Maui:** This northern Maui region, with over 6,700 residents and 10% in poverty, experiences 19.38 common property crimes per 1,000, just 6% below Hawaii’s average.
6. **Honolulu:** Categorized as the state’s “primary transshipment point for drugs,” Honolulu has areas like Kalihi and Chinatown deemed unsafe at night in a city with diverse neighborhoods.
7. **Pahoa, Hawaii:** High rates of sex offenders, with one per 23 residents, accompany crime rates 46% higher than the state average in Pahoa.
8. **Ewa Beach, Oahu:** Noteworthy for methamphetamine use, Ewa Beach carries a 1 in 27 chance of being a crime victim, per AreaVibes.
9. **Waipahu:** With a 36-per-1,000 crime rate, this impoverished Oahu city exceeds the national average due to prevalent methamphetamine use.
10. **Hanamaulu, Kauai:** Despite rapid growth in 2017, Hanamaulu on Kauai’s eastern shore contends with crime rates 31% higher than the national average.
11. **Kailua-Kona, Hawaii:** Despite its scenic resorts, Kailua-Kona reports 23.02 crimes per 1,000 residents, emphasizing caution in this picturesque location.
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