Although Maui was voted TripAdvisor's favorite island in 2016, it is also known for its terrible weather. Beautiful sunsets, an endless summer, and crisp air come with some very real dangers. Here are ten potential dangers on Maui that you should try to avoid at all costs:
Animals and plants and bugs
Mosquitoes, centipedes, and houseflies were once completely absent from Maui. Scary animals came to Maui hidden in people's shoes, rugs, and clothing as they fell in love with the island and decided to stay forever. Since then, these beasts have also made paradise their permanent home.
Creatures as terrifying as centipedes can grow to be a foot long, while flying cockroaches and cane spiders can each grow to be three and four inches in length. Cockroaches and cane spiders on Maui only bite if they feel threatened. Still, some people are susceptible to panic attacks because of the anxiety they cause. Centipedes, on the other hand, are the demons of the Hawaiian paradise, as they bite and won't release go until they're dead.
You should also be cautious around the plants of Maui. There are many poisonous plants on the island, despite the fact that some of the fruit-like plants look delicious. Avoid putting your health at risk by tasting anything unless you know for sure it is safe.
Finally, avoid contact with and feeding of wild animals. To these defenseless animals, you, too, are a dangerous human. It is illegal to interact with certain marine animals, such as the dolphins, geese (Nene), and turtles (Honu). These may seem like innocuous activities, but they put Hawaiian turtles at risk of contracting diseases when they come into contact with humans. The number of geese being killed because they no longer fear cars is shocking.
Jump Off a Cliff
Locals and visitors alike like going cliff diving in Maui. Maui's "Black Rock," on the northern end of Kaanapali Beach, is a popular cliff diving spot. Black Rock is the site of a daily ritual: after sunset, a "professional" diver dives into the Pacific Ocean. Kahekili, Maui's final chief, is commemorated in this event to demonstrate his virtuous character. However, be wary of demonstrating your spiritual fortitude by cliff diving, as the shifting tides can quickly reposition undersea debris. This means that if you aren't careful, rocks, branches, or even scuba divers could end up right under your feet. Those who aren't confident swimmers should also stay away from the region because the water depth increases rapidly.
Basic Grocery Items
Due to the island of Maui's remote location in the middle of the Pacific, much of the food and other goods sold there must be sent in from the continental United States. So even something as simple as a bag of potato chips has to cross an ocean to get to the island. Get ready to be astounded by the fact that half the air in your bag of chips will be added to your shipping bill. Maui may have higher grocery prices than the mainland, but the abundance of locally grown fresh fruits and veggies more than makes up for it.
Meet-Ups with Sharks
Many tourists have the wrong idea about how common shark attacks actually occur. There were just ten fatal accidents in Hawaii between 1958 and 2014. However, tourists should still respect posted rules and stay away from the water if they see sharks in the area. Avoid swimming in murky water, as this is a breeding ground for smaller fish, which in turn attract larger predators. Don't risk your safety by going swimming before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. Great places to go snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and other ocean activities can be found all throughout the Hawaiian island of Maui. Listen to the advice of officials, locals, and lifeguards; they have all been trained and know what they're talking about.
Coconut Disasters
Death by coconut actually exists, and it's no joke. There are more chances of being killed by a falling coconut than by a shark, according to multiple sources. About 150 individuals every year lose their lives to coconuts, making them ten times more likely to cause your demise than a shark. Five to fifteen people are killed by sharks every year around the world. So, before you rest or set up camp in that wonderful shady area on Maui, make sure no deadly coconuts are waiting in the branches above you to unleash their natural horror.
Waterfall Conundrum
Taking a photo of yourself in front of one of Maui's stunning waterfalls and posting it to social media is a surefire way to get a lot of attention. Swimming next to the waterfalls is one of the most memorable things you can do on Maui, whether or not you care about being famous online. You might be wondering why taking such a measure is necessary. Having a boulder fall on your head from one of Maui's towering waterfalls is not the most ideal way to end your island trip. Instead of worrying about what other people think of you on social media, focus on your own happiness by taking a dip in the pool next to the waterfall.
Sun Exposure Dangers
Before re-exposing your skin to the sun's warmth, you should always liberally apply sunscreen. The risk of sun poisoning is real. Mistakenly thinking it's safe to spend time at the beach without protection after being cooped up for months. The sun's rays are amplified by the water, causing severe sunburn to occur rapidly. If you can, try to schedule your lunch or your shopping for outside of the high-energy-consumption hours of 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Don't ruin your trip to Maui by stressing out over not getting a tan in the short time you'll be there. The pain of a sunburn lasts much longer in the mind than a month-long tan does.
The Curse of Pele
Famous for her fury and curses, Pele, the Goddess of Fire and Volcanoes, is feared by any who steal her children from the islands. Visitors to Maui and the other Hawaiian islands often send back souvenirs of volcanic rocks and sand that they took while vacationing elsewhere. These unsuspecting tourists return Pele's children in an effort to reverse the terrible luck that has befallen them ever since they stole rocks from Hawaii. Taking any rocks or sand from the Hawaiian islands is now grounds for confiscation by airport security.
Dangers Associated with Dehydration
Hiking is a favorite pastime of both Maui natives and visitors. Who wouldn't want to go hiking in Hana's beautiful jungles or visiting Maui's Haleakala volcano? The greatest threat is dehydration, which might occur if you don't pack enough water. For example, the high altitude of Haleakala makes it imperative to drink water frequently to avoid serious safety risks like dehydration.
Buying or Using a Round-Trip Ticket
The most dangerous thing you can do on Maui is to think about leaving. Maui is such a beautiful place, it's hard not to fall in love with it. Maui's breathtaking sunsets, double rainbows, and crystal clear oceans can make it difficult to say goodbye. But know that Maui's hospitality and appeal will remain even after you've left.
