Hawaii is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, tropical climate, and rich culture. However, not all places in the Aloha State are equally safe and peaceful. According to a list compiled by 24/7 Wall St., based on data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report, there are four towns in Hawaii that have high rates of violent crime and property crime, making them among the most dangerous towns in the US. Here are the four towns and the reasons why they are considered risky.
Wahiawa, Oahu
Wahiawa is a town located in the central part of Oahu, surrounded by mountains and pineapple fields. It is home to the Schofield Barracks, a major military base, and the Dole Plantation, a popular tourist attraction. However, Wahiawa also has a dark side, as it ranks as the most dangerous town in Hawaii, and the 13th most dangerous town in the US. Wahiawa has a violent crime rate of 19.5 per 1,000 residents, and a property crime rate of 61.7 per 1,000 residents. Some of the factors that contribute to the high crime rate in Wahiawa are poverty, drug abuse, and gang activity.
Kahului, Maui
Kahului is the largest town and commercial center of Maui, the second-largest island in Hawaii. It is where most visitors arrive and depart, as it hosts the island’s main airport and harbor. Kahului also offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as access to some of the island’s natural attractions, such as Haleakala National Park and Iao Valley. However, Kahului is also plagued by crime, as it ranks as the second most dangerous town in Hawaii, and the 15th most dangerous town in the US. Kahului has a violent crime rate of 18.3 per 1,000 residents, and a property crime rate of 56.6 per 1,000 residents. Some of the reasons for the high crime rate in Kahului are homelessness, drug trafficking, and theft.
Hilo, Hawaii
Hilo is the largest town and county seat of Hawaii County, which encompasses the Big Island of Hawaii. It is a historic and cultural hub, as well as a gateway to some of the island’s natural wonders, such as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, and Mauna Kea. Hilo is also known for its annual Merrie Monarch Festival, a celebration of Hawaiian culture and hula. However, Hilo is not without its problems, as it ranks as the third most dangerous town in Hawaii, and the 18th most dangerous town in the US. Hilo has a violent crime rate of 17.6 per 1,000 residents, and a property crime rate of 54.8 per 1,000 residents. Some of the causes of the high crime rate in Hilo are poverty, unemployment, and domestic violence.
Kailua, Oahu
Kailua is a town located on the windward coast of Oahu, known for its scenic beaches, such as Kailua Beach and Lanikai Beach. It is a popular destination for water sports, such as kayaking, surfing, and windsurfing. Kailua also has a charming downtown area, with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. However, Kailua is also affected by crime, as it ranks as the fourth most dangerous town in Hawaii, and the 20th most dangerous town in the US. Kailua has a violent crime rate of 16.8 per 1,000 residents, and a property crime rate of 52.9 per 1,000 residents. Some of the factors that contribute to the high crime rate in Kailua are tourism, burglary, and vandalism.
Conclusion
Hawaii is a beautiful and diverse state, with many attractions and activities to offer. However, it also has its share of challenges and dangers, especially in some of its towns. The four towns mentioned above have the highest crime rates in the state, and are among the most dangerous towns in the US. Visitors and residents should be aware of the risks and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Hawaii is still a paradise, but not a perfect one.