Once owned by Royalty, Niihau was purchased from King Kamehameha in 1864 and up to 1987, visits to the island were typically restricted to the owners and their guests, or government officials, which is how it gained its moniker; “The Forbidden Island”.
Who has been invited to Niihau?
Niihau, also known as the Forbidden Isle, is a beautiful small island in Hawaii spread across 180 sq km. The island is off-limits to outsiders and only the Robinson family, their relatives, invited guests, government officials and US Navy personnel are allowed here.
Has anyone been to Niihau?
What is life like on Niihau?
Residents typically rely on fishing and farming for most of their food. The only inhabited village is Puuwai, where residents live a simple life, getting around by walking, or riding horses and bicycles.
What is a fun fact about Niihau?
Residency on Niihau is restricted to Hawaiians, and tourism is prohibited; in 1959 it was the only island to vote against statehood. Although English is taught, Hawaiian is the preferred language. Niihau is mostly arid lowland, which supports sheep and cattle ranching. The U.S. Navy uses the island for weapons testing.
How do you get invited to Niihau?
No one is allowed to land on Niihau unless you are a resident of the island, a member of the Robinson family, or an invited guest. The Robinson family permits helicopter tours, but contact between the visitors and natives is not allowed. Fishermen and sailors may visit the island by sea, but are not able to land.