The Big Island is home to the iconic volcanoes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The vast majority of the island is safe from active volcanoes, but it’s always a good idea to check for updates before you visit.
Hawaii is a modern, developed country that has plenty to offer visitors. It’s easy to get around, has plenty of entertainment, and great healthcare.
Crime
The Big Island is a popular vacation destination, with active volcanoes and crystal clear waters. It’s also a great place to visit for families with kids.
If you’re considering a trip to Hawaii, learning more about how safe it is is important. This will help you make the most of your time there and stay protected while away from home.
Even though the state’s crime rate has fallen dramatically over the last decade, there are still a few places you should avoid at all costs. For example, the town of Pahoa is known for its high sex crime rate.
Its crime rate is also much higher than the national average for both violent and property crimes. If you’re traveling to this city, it’s best to stay out of unfamiliar areas at night and install a security system. Otherwise, you could find yourself being a victim of theft and burglary.
Water Safety
Big Island beaches offer a variety of activities and a chance to get up close to nature. But it’s important to be aware of the ocean’s power.
Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional death in Hawaii for children 1-17 years old. So be sure to follow the water safety rules and never enter the ocean without supervision from a lifeguard.
Be aware of sharp coral, ragged lava rock, prickly sea urchins and sudden shifting surf. These and other hazards can ruin your day at the beach and lead to injury or even death.
Watch for warning signage, placards, and labels on the beaches to know when it’s safe to swim or snorkel. And be aware of rip currents and hidden rocks.
Road Safety
A traffic crash happens every day in Hawaii, often causing fatalities. That’s no secret to anyone who’s driven or taken a ride around the island.
That said, the Big Island is surprisingly safe for main roads. It’s also home to many unpaved rough roads that get bulldozed through lava flows and on muddy canyon walls that aren’t designed for the typical big island jeep rentals.
In addition, road shoulders can be soft and deep, especially during inclement weather, so drivers should always keep their eyes out for pedestrians. And don’t forget to use your headlights! Distracted driving remains a huge safety problem on our roadways and is a contributing factor in many fatal crashes.
Safety Tips
Whether you’re travelling to the Big Island with kids or alone, there are some basic safety tips that can help make your trip safer. The good news is that crime rates are low on the Big Island, which means that if you follow these simple tips, you can rest easy knowing your family will be safe during their stay.
Water safety is an important concern on the Big Island, especially when visiting beaches with strong rip currents or shore breaks. Obedience to warning signs and spending some time watching the ocean before jumping in can help prevent accidents and injury.
Travelers should also be aware of their belongings when out and about. Theft of bags and valuables from rental cars is a common issue in Hawaii, so it’s a good idea to keep them secure or hidden away.
It’s also a good idea to take care when visiting national parks or wilderness areas. The animals here are wild and unpredictable, so it’s important to always use caution.