The island is designated as critical habitat for Brighamia insignis, an endemic and endangered species of Hawaiian lobelioid.
The island is generally off-limits to all but relatives of the island's owners, U.S. Navy personnel, government officials and invited guests, giving it the nickname "The Forbidden Isle."
Beginning in 1987, a limited number of supervised activity tours and hunting safaris have opened to tourists. The island is currently managed by Bruce and Keith Robinson.
The two brothers inherited Niihau, and have turned down all offers to sell including $1 billion from the U.S. Government. Can you imagine all the things you could do with your own island?
