Niihau - The Forbidden Island

Niihau is the Forbidden Island of Niihau which is twenty miles west of Kauai. The island is rich in legend and shrouded in mystery. The water on the island is clear and pristine with tropical fish and Monk Seals thriving in water that is so clear.

Visiting this island is only allowed on a limited basis as the island is private and has remained unburdened by outside influences, there are no restaurants or hotels or even roads. Helicopter tours visit the island with permission from the villagers.

This island in 17 miles of the west coast of Kauai and is the smallest of Hawaii's inhabited islands. On this island is the last sign of true Hawaiian culture, there is no electricity or plumbing in this area and Hawaiian is the primary spoken language.

Niihau Island was purchased in 1863 by Elizabeth Sinclair, today her descendants continue her commitment to the island and the Hawaiian culture. Life on the island is simple, tranquil and uneventful. The island is low and dry meaning that the land is used mainly for raising cattle, the residents work on the Robinsons' ranch along with each family tending their own gardens which supplement the beef that are raised. The island is also famous for their rare shells, which have been valued at hundreds and even in some cases, thousands of dollars.