The most uniquely Hawaiian souvenir you can send
No box. No envelope. Just a coconut with an address written on it. USPS will deliver it anywhere in the United States. It's one of Hawaii's most fun and memorable souvenirs.
Pick up a coconut from a local market, ABC Store, or souvenir shop in Waikiki. Husked (brown, hairy) coconuts work best — they're lighter and easier to write on. Many shops sell coconuts specifically prepared for mailing.
Using a permanent marker (Sharpie works great), write the recipient's full mailing address directly on the coconut husk. Include the return address too. Write clearly and make sure the ink doesn't smudge.
Many people decorate their coconuts with drawings, stickers, or messages like "Aloha from Waikiki!" Some souvenir shops sell pre-decorated coconuts ready to mail.
Take your coconut to any of the three Waikiki post offices. The postal clerk will weigh it and apply the correct postage. No box or packaging is needed — just hand them the coconut!
Postage is based on weight. A typical husked coconut costs about $8 - $15 to ship domestically via USPS Ground Advantage or Priority Mail. The clerk will stamp it and off it goes!
Yes! USPS has been delivering coconuts from Hawaii for decades. It's USPS Fact #1057. The Postal Service delivers tens of thousands of coconuts from Hawaii each year.
No! That's the fun part. The coconut itself is the package. Just write the address directly on the husk. No box, no envelope, no wrapping required.
Typically $8 - $15 for domestic shipping, depending on weight and shipping speed. A husked coconut usually weighs about 1-2 pounds. Priority Mail will get it there in 2-3 days; Ground Advantage takes about a week.
International mailing of coconuts is more complicated due to agricultural customs regulations. Many countries restrict importing plant materials. Domestic shipping within the U.S. (including to all 50 states) is straightforward.
ABC Stores (there are dozens in Waikiki), souvenir shops along Kalakaua Avenue, and some grocery stores sell coconuts. Some shops sell pre-decorated "mail-ready" coconuts with stickers and designs already on them.
Any of the three Waikiki post offices can handle coconut mail. The main Waikiki Post Office on Saratoga Road is the most popular choice. The Waikiki Shopping Plaza location is also very convenient if you're on Kalakaua Ave.