Is theft on the beaches common?

Question

My husband and I are looking to hike down to Cook’s monument and snorkel. We would also like to drive to some quiet beaches if there are any. We will not be leaving car keys, phones, or anything of value on the beach while we snorkel, but I would hate to lose my shoes, towel, etc, while we are snorkeling. The hike up would be tough without shoes. How common is theft on the beaches? Would an insulated bag with our lunch, towel, and shoes be safe? Any recommendations for snorkeling and great swimming beaches are appreciated. This is our first visit so recommendations on any nature oriented activities are welcome.

Answer

Theft on Hawaii’s beaches is generally not rampant, but it can happen, especially at more isolated or less trafficked beaches. Most locals and visitors take precautions such as leaving valuables at home, in the car (locked and out of sight), or using waterproof dry bags that can be kept close by. An insulated bag with your lunch, towel, and shoes is usually fine if you keep it within sight, but it is not completely risk-free if you leave it unattended while snorkeling or hiking.

Some tips to keep your belongings safe:

Keep shoes and towels in a brightly colored bag and place it where you can see it from the water, if possible.
Bring a waterproof dry bag or mesh backpack that you can bring into shallow water or leave secured on a large rock or under your body while in the water.
Avoid leaving items in your car overnight at trailheads or beaches, as break-ins, while not common, have occurred.
If you are at a popular beach, choose a spot closer to other families or groups, which can deter opportunistic theft.

For snorkeling and swimming on the Big Island, some highly recommended spots include:

Kealakekua Bay / Captain Cook Monument: Excellent snorkeling with tropical fish and coral. Accessible by kayak, boat tour, or the hike you mentioned.
Hapuna Beach: Wide sandy beach, great for swimming and sunbathing. Generally safe and family-friendly.
Mauna Kea Beach: Beautiful white sand, calm waters, and good snorkeling near the rocky edges.
Kahalu’u Beach Park (Kona side): Easy access, calm waters, excellent snorkeling with plenty of fish and occasional sea turtles.
Two Step (Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park): Popular snorkeling spot with clear water and reef fish. Easy entry from a lava rock platform.

For nature-oriented activities beyond snorkeling and beaches:

Hiking: Pololu Valley, Waipi’o Valley, or trails on Mauna Kea.
Waterfalls: Akaka Falls State Park and Rainbow Falls near Hilo.
Volcano exploration: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for lava flows, craters, and hiking trails.
Stargazing: Mauna Kea summit tours (requires acclimatization and sometimes guided tours).

Overall, the Big Island offers many quiet beaches and natural sites, but taking basic precautions with belongings will help ensure a worry-free experience while snorkeling and hiking.

Is theft on the beaches common?

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