Although visible from the south side of Kauai, Ni'ihau is a world apart. The island was purchased in 1864 from the Hawaiian King Kamehameha V by the Sinclair family of New Zealand for the purposes of ranching. Today the island remains privately owned and is stewarded by their descendants, the Robinsons.

Although a more simple way of life exists here than on the other Hawaiian islands, modern conveniences have made there way to Ni'ihau. Wooden houses replaced native Hawaiian grass houses in the early 1900's, and the village of Pu'uwai has it's own Ni'ihau school and church. The barge from Kauai brings over supplies, including diesel fuel for electric generators. These generators power radios and TV, keeping the people connected with their families on Kauai.

Still, a more traditional way of life exists here. Hawaiian is the primary langauge. People still fish regularly for what they need. Ni'ihau salt is evaporated from sea water in the old way. The island remains home to the last community of indigenous Hawaiians.

It is possible to visit Ni'ihau today thru Ni'ihau Helicopters, managed by the Robinson family. They offer half day trips and are the only company which can land you on the island. Although you cannot visit the village, or interact with Ni'ihau families, you get a circle island tour and a chance to land near a pristine beach for lunch and a swim. You'll find a link to their site on our "Links" page. We encourage you to consider Ni'ihau Helicopters if you wish to visit the island.

Lately a number of boat tour operators have begun snorkeling off the coast of Ni'ihau. Be aware that they cannot land you on the island, and that no portion of the price you pay goes to benefit the Ni'ihau people.