Island of Yesterday
Niihau sits just 17 miles southwest of Kauai (furthest from the Big Island) and is approximately 18 miles long, 5 miles wide, and the area is 90 square miles. The island is low at both ends with a high tableland. Niʻihau’s highest point is 1,281 feet. The island of Lehua is just off the coast of Niʻihau.
Niʻihau is semi-desert with no permanent streams and very little rain, though it does boast the largest lake in the Hawaiian Islands. Sheep, cattle, and honey serve as the major industries. Niʻihau is also noted for her beautiful sea shells used for lei making.
Niʻihau is politically a part of Kauai County. It is owned by the Robinson family and is not accessible to visitors. Much of the Hawaiian heritage is still kept alive. The 200+ inhabitants, probably the largest colony of Hawaiians left on the islands, speak Hawaiian as their first language.
I like the Niihua Laces
Thank you for this write-up. The sign at the Niihau Lookout at Waimea Canyon is weatherbeaten beyond legibility, and this is pretty close to what’s on the sign.