Areas in West Maui that tourists should avoid include Lahaina, Napili, Kaanapali, and Kapalua, according to a press release from the Hawaii Tourism Authority.
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Safest Areas of MauiOverall, Maui is an incredibly safe place to visit, with a lower than average crime rate versus the U.S. national average. Violence and property crimes are low on average here, but the safest areas of Maui are Upcountry, South Maui, and the North Shore.
Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach located on Maui is known to have rough water and is reported to be one of a handful of red sand beaches around the world. Makena Beach in Maui has the nickname of “breakneck beach” because the surf breaks right on the shore, making it very dangerous to swim in.
General SafetyDon't go into any city park at night unless there's an event that attracts a crowd. Generally speaking, you can feel safe in areas where there are many people and open establishments. Avoid carrying valuables with you on the street, and don't display expensive cameras or electronic equipment.
Don't enter the water at dawn, dusk or night when sharks are most active and/or moving closer to shore to find food. Be aware that some shark species, like tiger sharks, are always active, no matter what time of day.
Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach located on Maui is known to have rough water and is reported to be one of a handful of red sand beaches around the world. Makena Beach in Maui has the nickname of “breakneck beach” because the surf breaks right on the shore, making it very dangerous to swim in.
There's plenty of time to swim and jump from waterfall ledges into deep freshwater pools and learn about the island along the way. Fun, easy, and great for families, or if you are limited on time. Swim (optional) in pools under two waterfalls—10 and 20 feet high.
After heavy rains, stay out of the ocean until the water clears. Don't swim in the mouths of rivers or streams or in any murky areas. Murky waters attract predators (think “shark”), and you don't want to be mistaken for a fish or turtle when they are looking for a snack. You'll find more Maui ocean safety tips here!
The leeward beaches tend to have more sunshine, gentler waves, and soft golden sand. Kamaole Beach Park on the southern edge of Maui features three of the best beaches on the island, particularly Kam I and Kam II. The western side has Keawakapu Beach and Napili Beach which are also well worth visiting.
Wailea: For high-end lodgings, look no further than Wailea. This area includes several incredible beachfront resorts, condo complexes, a lovely outdoor mall, and several quality restaurants. Our favorite luxury resorts include the Four Seasons Maui, Hotel Wailea, the Wailea Beach Marriott, and the Grand Wailea.
General SafetyAlthough tourist areas are generally safe, visitors should always stay alert, even in laid-back Maui (and especially in resort and beach areas). It's wise to ask the island tourist office if you're in doubt about which neighborhoods are safe. Avoid deserted areas, especially at night.
Nighttime temperatures are slightly cooler, but you should be comfortable with a light sweater or jacket. Weather can change quickly and sometimes unpredictably, switching from a warm breezy morning to a refreshing (albeit comfortably humid) afternoon drizzle.
Maui is a warm, island destination with a thriving tourist industry, so people generally dress casually. It's not uncommon to have a bathing suit on under your clothes while grabbing lunch or shopping for souvenirs. Even at a sit-down dinner, you'll see a lot of floral prints, cotton, and sandals.
If you want to avoid your biggest chance of having a shark encounter on Maui, just avoid the ocean during the early and late hours. A Few More Tips: Do Not urinate in the ocean, and Do Not enter the ocean while bleeding or while having any open wounds. Natural Resources website.
If you go to the higher elevations on Maui and the Big Island, be prepared for cold temperatures. Temperatures above 10,000 feet will only reach the 40s to near 50 during the day and drop into the 20s at night. At elevations above 12,000 feet it is still possible for snow to occur, even into early May.
Water Temperatures in MauiIn June and July, when temperatures are at their highest, the water is generally about 78°F/25°C, making it perfect or Molokini snorkeling. In August and September, when temperatures may slide back a few degrees, the water has gotten really warm and may be 80°F/26.6°C.