What Tourists In Hawaii Don’t Realize Is Actually Illegal

Hawaii is a paradise filled with beautiful beaches, amazing wildlife, and friendly locals. But before you pack your bags and head to the islands, you should know that some common tourist behaviors can actually land you in serious trouble with the law.

Many visitors break rules without even realizing it, which can lead to hefty fines or worse.

1. Touching or Harassing Protected Wildlife

Getting too close to Hawaii’s incredible wildlife might seem harmless, but it’s actually a serious crime. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, monk seals, and humpback whales are all protected by federal and state laws.

You must stay at least 50 feet away from these animals, and touching or feeding them is strictly forbidden. Breaking these rules can result in fines up to $50,000 and even jail time.

These laws exist to protect endangered species from stress and harm caused by human interaction. Respect the wildlife by observing from a safe distance and never attempting to pet or feed them.

2. Taking Sand, Lava Rocks, or Coral

Many tourists think grabbing a small rock or some sand makes a perfect free souvenir. However, removing any natural materials from Hawaii’s beaches and parks is completely illegal.

This includes lava rocks, black sand, coral, and even small pebbles. Authorities enforce these laws strictly to preserve the islands’ unique ecosystems and natural beauty for future generations.

Violators face significant fines and may be required to return the items. Some believe taking lava rocks brings bad luck according to local legend, but the legal consequences are very real regardless of superstition.

3. Using Non-Reef Safe Sunscreen

Hawaii became the first state to ban sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemicals that severely damage coral reefs. These ingredients cause coral bleaching and disrupt marine ecosystems.

While you can technically bring banned sunscreen into the state, using it in sensitive areas is illegal without a prescription. Most stores now only sell reef-safe alternatives that protect both your skin and the environment.

Check your sunscreen labels before your trip and switch to mineral-based options with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide instead. Your skin stays protected while keeping Hawaii’s reefs healthy.

4. Drinking Alcohol on the Beach

Sipping a cold beer while watching the sunset sounds perfect, but it’s against the law throughout Hawaii. All public beaches and parks prohibit alcohol consumption, unlike some mainland beach destinations.

Police regularly patrol popular tourist areas and issue citations to violators. Fines can be substantial, and getting caught can put a damper on your vacation mood quickly.

Save your tropical drinks for restaurants, bars, or private properties with permission. The beaches remain beautiful and enjoyable without alcohol, and you’ll avoid unnecessary legal trouble during your island getaway.

5. Hiking on Certain Unofficial or Closed Trails

Instagram-worthy trails like the Haiku Stairs, known as Stairway to Heaven, attract countless tourists despite being permanently closed. Trespassing on these restricted trails results in fines up to $1,000.

Many popular hiking spots are closed due to safety hazards, environmental damage, or private property concerns. Authorities have increased enforcement and even installed security measures to catch trespassers.

Stick to legal, maintained trails instead, which offer equally stunning views without legal risks. Hawaii has plenty of legitimate hiking options that won’t result in expensive tickets or potential injury on dangerous, unmaintained paths.

6. Texting While Crossing the Street

Honolulu made headlines by becoming one of the first cities to ban distracted walking. Looking at your phone while crossing any street or highway can earn you a ticket ranging from $15 to $99.

This law applies to all mobile electronic devices, including tablets and handheld gaming systems. Officers actively enforce this rule, especially in busy tourist areas like Waikiki.

Wait until you reach the sidewalk before checking your phone or taking photos. The law exists to prevent pedestrian accidents, which have increased dramatically with smartphone use in recent years.

7. Taking Certain Produce or Plants Out of the State

Packing fresh mangoes or pineapples in your suitcase seems like bringing home a taste of paradise. Unfortunately, strict agricultural quarantine laws prohibit most fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants from leaving Hawaii.

These regulations prevent invasive species and agricultural pests from spreading to the mainland. Violators face confiscation of items and potential fines at airport inspections.

Only certified and treated products can travel, so purchase pre-approved items from stores or ship commercially packaged goods instead. Agricultural inspectors check bags thoroughly, so don’t risk losing your souvenirs or facing penalties.

8. Smoking or Vaping in Public Parks and Beaches

Hawaii raised the legal age for tobacco and e-cigarette use to 21 statewide, making it the first state to do so. Additionally, smoking and vaping are completely banned at all state parks and beaches.

These restrictions protect the environment from cigarette litter and safeguard public health in shared spaces. Enforcement is taken seriously, with violators receiving citations and fines.

Designated smoking areas exist in some locations, but beach and park properties remain smoke-free zones. Respect these rules to avoid tickets and help keep Hawaii’s natural spaces clean and healthy for everyone.

9. Leaving Valuables Visible in a Rental Car

Car break-ins targeting tourists have become epidemic in Hawaii, particularly at popular beaches and hiking trailheads. Thieves specifically watch rental cars, knowing tourists carry valuables like cameras, wallets, and electronics.

While leaving items visible isn’t technically illegal, the theft itself is rampant and often goes unsolved. Many visitors lose passports, credit cards, and expensive equipment within hours of arriving.

Take everything with you or use hotel safes instead of your vehicle. Even hiding items under seats doesn’t work since professional thieves know all the hiding spots tourists use regularly.

10. Camping or Sleeping in a Vehicle on Public Property

Sleeping in your rental car or camper van at beach parks sounds budget-friendly and convenient. However, vagrant camping laws make it illegal to sleep in vehicles on public property between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

This includes roadways, streets, highways, and beach parking lots throughout the state. Police regularly patrol these areas and issue citations to violators.

Use designated campgrounds with proper permits instead, which offer facilities and legal overnight stays. These laws address homelessness concerns but also apply to tourists, so plan your accommodations accordingly to avoid fines.