Niihau, Hawaii the “Forbidden Island,” is a small Hawaiian island with an approximate land area of 70 square miles. It is the least populated of the eight inhabited islands, Hawaii Island, Maui,Kahoolawe, Lanai, Molokai, Oahu,Kauai, and Niihau. Niihau is particularly intriguing with its preservation of the Hawaiian culture, Hawaiian continues to be the island's primary language.
Niihau is privately owned and managed by Bruce and Keith Robinson, descendents of Elizabeth Sinclair. Sinclair originally purchased the island in 1864, paying $10,000 to Kamehameha V. Life on the island is tranquil and amazingly simple. Niihau residents are few in number, about 160, and reside in the small town of Puuwai. These islanders live primarily off the land, fishing, hunting, and gardening to grow their own fresh vegetables and fruits. There are no airports, no hotels, no restaurants, few cars, no running water, and only solar or generator-produced electricity, an environment without modern development and busy crowds. While visiting Hawaii, tourists should not miss the extraordinary opportunity to visit beautiful Niihau. Half-day tours are available by Niihau Helicopters, a company owned by the Robinsons. The helicopters are boarded on the neighboring island, Kauai. The ride to Niihau is 18 miles across the Kaulakahi Channel. The helicopter lands on the island, depending on wind conditions, and stays for several hours. Tourists are free to swim, walk along the beach, snorkel, sunbathe, relax and enjoy lunch and refreshments that are included in the tour. On some occasions, tourists may see an endangered monk seal while viewing the abundant sea life.
During a stroll along the beach or sunbathing, pick up some Niihau shells. They are tiny shells, various colors and sizes, that populate the beaches on the island. These delicate shells are collected and hand-sewn into leis. Each shell lei is unique and often sells for hundreds of dollars. While other Hawaiian islands have their beautiful flower leis, Niihau has its magnificent shell leis.
For a more challenging adventure, tourists can experience the thrill of a hunting safari. Due to the island's arid conditions, Niihau, Hawaii wildlife is plentiful. Hunting is available for the Polynesian boar, hybrid sheep, and limited hunting for the wild eland, aoudad, or oryx. Youth and family hunts are also provided to encourage most ages and various hunting abilities. Good game management and humane hunting methods are emphasized.
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Periodic issues- Free advice and suggestions for making your next travel adventure more enjoyable.
