Can you take rocks from the Big Island?


Can you take rocks from the Big Island? Packing a few lava rocks or a handful of sand for a remarkable keepsake is harmless, right? Not so. Possessing or removing any natural mineral is illegal and could cost you some hefty fines. Hawaii is big on the preservation of natural resources.


What island are you not allowed on in Hawaii?

Niihau, also known as the Forbidden Isle, is a beautiful small island in Hawaii spread across 180 sq km. The island is off-limits to outsiders and only the Robinson family, their relatives, invited guests, government officials and US Navy personnel are allowed here.


Can you take rocks and coral from Hawaii?

The taking, breaking or damaging of any stony corals or live rock is prohibited under sections 13-95-70 and 13-95-71, Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR), unless authorized by a permit (Special Activity Permit or SAP) issued under section 187A-6, Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS).


Should you say Aloha back?

Aloha means both “hello,” and “goodbye,” and is used as a greeting when seeing someone for the first time and wishing them well at parting. If someone says “Aloha” to you, say it right back. Mahalo means “thank you.” If someone does you a kindness, don't be shy about saying, “Mahalo,” to them.


Where can I return lava rocks in Hawaii?

We will still be happy to take care of returning them for you! Of course, you could just send the lava rocks back to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park direct, however, many people like being able to give the return of the rocks a little extra attention, and to do so you can send them to us right here in Volcano.


Can you take rocks from Volcano National Park?

Pohaku, or rocks, are sacred in Hawaiian culture. It's also illegal and inappropriate to take them from the national park. “Always follow Leave No Trace principles when exploring national parks - make sure to take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints,” park rangers said.


Can airport security detect sand?

Soon would be the first lesson in bringing home beach: a gallon size bag of very powdery white sand in your carry-on will likely get you a second look at airport security. Fortunately for me – and my husband – TSA was able to confirm, after a thorough luggage inspection, it was not some other illegal contraband!


Can I stack rocks in Hawaii?

Don't stack rocks Whatever you do, don't pile rocks – especially volcanic rocks. Altering the natural setting of the Hawaiian landscape is a violation of federal law.


What not to bring back from Hawaii?

Common Items from Hawaii NOT ALLOWED into the U.S. Mainland or Alaska
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables, some exceptions are those listed below as permitted.
  • Berries of any kind, including fresh coffee berries and sea grapes.
  • Cactus plants or cactus plant parts.
  • Cotton and cotton bolls.
  • Fresh flowers of jade vine, and Mauna Loa.


Is it OK to take sand from Hawaii?

Division of Aquatic Resources Removing them can possibly upset the natural balance of each location they are removed from. In addition, it is illegal to take sand, dead coral, or coral rubble statewide per Hawai'i Revised Statute (HRS) §171-58.5 and §205A-44. Collecting beach glass and shells is still allowed.


Do people mail back rocks from Hawaii?

But apart from being illegal, legend has it that taking volcanic rocks from Hawaii is bad luck. Because of the myth, many people who take the rocks end up shipping them back to the island with notes of apology.