Inside Niihau, Hawaii’s ‘Forbidden Island’ That Tourists Can Finally Visit
In 1864, a Scottish plantation owner purchased Ni’ihau Island from Kamehameha V for $10,000 in gold – which, in today’s economy, equates to roughly $2 million.
Since then, the island was home to only Hawaiian natives, and by 1916, Aubrey Robinson, a descendent of the original buyer, closed the land off entirely to visitors.
For over 100 years, Ni’ihau – which is only 17 miles off the coast of Kauai – has been a hermetic member of the Hawaiian chain. That is, until now.
Per Backpacking:
“Now, carefully controlled day tours — typically via helicopter — are being offered in limited numbers. These visits focus on nature, wildlife and cultural respect, rather than commercial development. Overnight stays and independent travel remain prohibited.”
With Ni’ihau and other land on Kauai, the Robinson’s are the largest land owners in Hawaii. More than Oracle’s Larry Ellison and Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg.
As for the tours, it appears they have been going for a handful of years to the “Forbidden Island.” One tour group, which has reviews dating back a handful of years, offers:
“1/2 day tours to Niihau Island. Trip includes helicopter flight from the west side of Kauai to Niihau island, an aerial tour of the island, and about 3 hours on the beach to swim, snorkel and beachcomb.”
And this experience is truly a look into the past, with strict restrictions still held by the Robinson family. For instance, per a report from Business Insider:
“The ‘Forbidden Island’ has no WiFi, running water, or electricity outside of solar panels — locals wash their clothes in streams and light their homes with kerosene lamps. There are no cars and just one truck. Most travel is done by horse or bicycle. It remains the only placeon Earth where the Native Hawaiian language is still the primary language spoken.
“Vices like drinking and drug-use are punishable by permanent exile. Visitors, even family members of those living there, are allowed on only at the Robinsons' permission.”
So, if you go, better be on your best behavior.