Why can't you bring back lava rock from Hawaii?


Why can't you bring back lava rock from Hawaii? It's not only illegal to take lava rocks from Hawaii, but it's also considered bad luck. Known as Pele's Curse, taking lava rocks from the islands is said to bring bad luck and misfortune upon the thief. So if you're planning on visiting the islands anytime soon, leave the rocks behind and enjoy your vacation!


Can you bring back lava rock?

It is illegal to take lava rocks from Volcano National Park. Not only that it can bring very bad luck as its an insult to Pele. Hundreds of lava rocks get sent back to Hawaii because of this well known kapu(taboo) on snatching parts of Pele the Goddess of the Volcanos!


Why is it illegal to take sand from Hawaii?

In order to protect the delicate ecosystem of Hawaii's beaches, the state has strict regulations in place that prohibit the removal of sand. These regulations are aimed at preventing erosion, preserving the natural habitat of marine life, and maintaining the overall balance of the coastal environment.


What is the curse of Haleakala?

Hundreds of people have returned lava rocks to Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and Haleakala National Park because they fear the “curse of Pele.” The legend is that the goddess of fire and volcanoes will bring rock thieves bad luck and misfortune.


What is illegal to take from Hawaii?

If you're short on time, here's a quick answer to your question: It is illegal to take home black coral, sand, lava rocks, certain feathers and shells, and indigenous plants and animals from Hawaii without proper permits and approvals.


What happens if a piece of lava touches you?

Lava won't kill you if it briefly touches you. You would get a nasty burn, but unless you fell in and couldn't get out, you wouldn't die. With prolonged contact, the amount of lava coverage and the length of time it was in contact with your skin would be important factors in how severe your injuries would be!


Is it illegal to take shells from Hawaii?

Collecting beach glass and shells is still allowed. But if you're collecting shells for the purposes of commercial activity, a Commercial Marine License is required per HRS §189-2,3 and Hawai'i Administrative Rule §13-74-20.


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.


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.


What happens if you accidentally take sand from Hawaii?

And that's a very risky endeavor, as taking sand from any beach in Hawaii is punishable by fines upwards of $100,000. This includes Papakolea Beach, also known as Green Sands Beach, and Punalu'u Beach, which is famous for its black volcanic sands.


Can you walk up to lava in Hawaii?

If the park determines that access to the flow is safe you can go on a hike to see the lava. Because viewing conditions change on a daily basis you should look up the most recent information about the active surface flows shortly before you plan to see the lava yourself.


Categories