If you find yourself wandering through a park or recreational area in Maui and spot a sign that says, “Beware Falling Ulu (Breadfruit) Please Be Cautious,” take it seriously—because those ulu (breadfruit) don’t mess around!

Photo taken along a morning walk in Keōpūolani Regional Park

Now, we get it. Maui has a lot of things to be cautious about—strong currents, sunburns, and the occasional overeager chicken crossing the road. But dodging rogue falling breadfruit? That’s next-level island survival.

What’s the Big Deal About Ulu?

For those unfamiliar, ulu is a starchy, delicious fruit that Hawaiians have been cooking up for centuries. It’s amazing when roasted, fried, or mashed, but before it becomes a tasty snack, it starts as a massive, rock-hard projectile hanging precariously from a tree. These things can grow up to 10 pounds, and when gravity does its thing—well, let’s just say you don’t want to be directly underneath.

How to Survive the Falling Ulu Zone

Look Up Before You Park – A gentle thud on your rental car might make for a funny story, but let’s avoid unnecessary dents.

Wear a Hat? – Not that it’ll help much, but hey, at least you’ll look stylish while bracing for impact.

Catch It, If You Dare – If you happen to snag one mid-air, congrats! You’ve just unlocked expert-level ulu skills. Now find a local auntie to teach you how to cook it.

So, while you’re cruising around in your Kihei Rent A Car, keep an eye out—not just for waterfalls and rainbows, but for the lurking threat of falling fruit. Stay safe, stay cautious, and if an ulu does hit you, at least you’ll have a legendary Maui story to tell!