Pōhaku, 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.
What happens if you take lava rocks 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!
Is it illegal to take volcanic rocks?
In summary, taking lava rocks from Hawaii's national parks or other protected lands is illegal and culturally insensitive. Lava rocks hold deep spiritual meaning for native Hawaiians as physical embodiments of Pele.
Can you take lava rocks back to Hawaii?
So if you have a lava rock you want to return, just know that you're not alone. Thousands of pounds of lava rocks are returned to the Islands of Hawai'i each year. Federal law prohibits removing anything from Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, but I've never heard of anyone being punished for taking a lava rock.
Can you take lava rock from Volcano National Park?
Is it legal to take lava rocks from Iceland?
Although it's illegal to remove actual lava rocks from their habitat, you can find jewelry made with Icelandic volcanic rock to take home for yourself or your loved ones.
Can you take dead coral rocks from Hawaii?
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.
Are you allowed to take black sand from Iceland?
Can you bring sand back from Iceland? It's not illegal to take black sand from Iceland's beaches, but generally, it's best to leave Iceland's nature alone. The old motto 'take only photos, leave only footprints' certainly applies here.
Can you take rocks and sand from Hawaii?
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.