Are There Private Islands In Hawaii? Discover The Hidden Paradise

Is there private ownership of any Hawaiian Islands? Yes, there is. Niihau, located approximately 18 miles northwest of Kauai, is a unique case among the Hawaiian Islands. It has been privately owned for over 150 years, with its ownership remaining within the same family. As of July 11, 2022, Niihau continues to maintain its private ownership, making it distinct from the publicly owned and managed Hawaiian Islands.

The reason why two Hawaiian Islands, Niihau and Kahoolawe, are forbidden to visitors stems from historical decisions made by local families and government authorities. In 1864, the Robinson family, who owned Niihau, implemented a strict access restriction, earning the island its renowned moniker, the “Forbidden Island.” The Robinsons enacted a policy that guaranteed lifelong residence on Niihau for its native-born inhabitants, limiting their exposure to external influences. This decision was primarily intended to preserve the traditional Hawaiian way of life and culture on the island. Similarly, Kahoolawe, another Hawaiian island, was also closed to the public in the 1940s due to its military use as a bombing range, further restricting access for safety reasons. These measures were taken to safeguard the unique cultural and environmental attributes of these islands, and while they remain intriguing mysteries to outsiders, they continue to be cherished and protected by those who call them home.