niihau day trip

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Niihau + Napali Super Tour - 7hr

Niihau & napali coast tour.

If you’re looking for the biggest, baddest, longest, strongest, wettest, and wildest of all Kauai boat tours, look no further than Holo Holo Charters’ Niihau + Napali Super Tour. This is the tour that put our company on the map and has for years been recognized as one of the most ambitious and impressive boat tours in all of America. Say yes to adventure and come aboard our sleek, sporty, efficient catamaran for an incredible 7-hour Pacific Ocean experience!

The Holo Holo Super Tour combines Kauai’s iconic Napali Coast boat tour experience with an offshore excursion—traveling 17 miles across the Kaulakahi Channel to Lehua Crater Hawaii State Wildlife Sanctuary and the neighboring “Forbidden Island” of Niihau, then back to Port Allen– all in one epic, awe-inspiring, senses-stimulating day!

It will be dawn when you come aboard Holoholo, our company’s namesake 65-foot power catamaran that was designed and built right here on Kauai, specifically for these daily trips across the channel to Lehua, Niihau, and back. Holoholo is clean, spacious, comfortable, and capable– fitted with powerful twin Cummins QSB diesel engines that make it possible for us to cover more than 60 ocean miles on this tour. Holoholo’s hull design and low center of gravity provide for a safe and secure ride with less bouncing and less rolling than on more top-heavy, double-decker boats.

We’ll enjoy a continental-style breakfast of cheesy scrambled eggs, pastries & muffins, fresh fruit, coffee, tea, and juice as we cruise along Kauai’s arid & beachy westside and towards the world-renowned Napali Coast. Your Captain will narrate the journey with history, legends, stories, and information about the island as we travel further north and get into the heart of Napali where we’ll witness her symphony of 4,000-foot sea cliffs, sea caves, sea arches, deep, rich emerald valleys, distant mountain waterfalls, up-close waterfalls that splash right into the bright blue ocean, serene beaches, glowing rainbows, light, shadows, mists, and all the other amazingness that’s somehow different and somehow magical every single day, without fail.

Of course, we’ll be keeping our eyes peeled all day for ocean wildlife including green sea turtles, Hawaii’s endemic monk seals, playful Hawaiian spinner dolphins, and seasonally (December-April) North Pacific humpback whales that have migrated from their feeding grounds in Alaska, over 3,000+ miles to Hawaii for their winter breeding and calving season.

After sufficiently exploring and basking in all the glory of the Napali Coast, instead of turning around and going back the same way, as most Kauai boat tours do, the Super Tour points it west and lets it rip—17 miles offshore we go!

The destination is Lehua Crater, an uninhabited crescent-shaped crater that’s a designated Hawaii State Wildlife Sanctuary. At Lehua, there are thousands of pelagic sea birds, including several endangered and native species, as well as a really cool “keyhole” rock formation that we’ll check out. Bring the binoculars if you have them.

After some sightseeing, we’ll find the best place to hang out, typically between Lehua Crater and the island of Niihau—Hawaii’s mysterious “Forbidden Island” that’s home to a private colony of Native Hawaiians that live there, off the grid. It’s illegal to go ashore at Niihau, however, it’s a fantastic place to anchor respectfully offshore for snorkeling and lunch!

Because of the unique underwater topography between the islands, the fact that there’s very little human and boat traffic, and due to the much drier climate, the waters off Lehua and Niihau are teeming with life! These are some of the clearest accessible waters in Hawaii and can offer 100+ feet of visibility on the best days. Here, amongst the underwater lava cathedrals, is the opportunity to see more elusive ocean species including fishes, monk seals, and manta rays, than you normally see on Kauai. Bring the GoPro!

We have all the snorkeling gear–masks, fins, snorkels, flotation devices– and our crew members will provide basic snorkeling instructions before jumping in the water with you on paddleboards to be sure everyone has a safe and positive experience. Depending on the day’s conditions, we’ll spend up to an hour snorkeling. Anyone that doesn’t want to swim is more than welcome to stretch out, relax on the boat, and simply enjoy being in nature.

Post-snorkeling, we’ll renourish with a colorful, satisfying, delicious lunch of with all the fixings to make your favorite sandwiches, a noodle salad, crisp veggies with ranch & hummus, freshly baked cookies, sodas, and juices. With lunch, we also offer a nice selection of quality domestic and Hawaii craft beers, hard seltzers, and wine spritzers that you’re welcome to enjoy for the remainder of the trip back to Port Allen.

After the tour, you should be all smiles and ready for an afternoon nap!

Holo Holo Charters has been offering offshore Kauai + Niihau boat tours since 1997, longer than any other Kauai boat tour company. For twenty-five years, our business has been modifying and upgrading our vessel, recruiting the island’s most talented captains and crewmembers, perfecting our routes, discovering the optimal snorkeling locations for every ocean condition, refining our food and drink menu, and dialing in every last detail. We’d love to have you on board and take you out for a most exciting, authentic, beautiful, and delicious Hawaii ocean experience. Let us show you how we do!

Please keep in mind that seven hours of adventuring on the water can be a bit much for some people. We want all our guests to have the best day ever, and we encourage you to consider the stamina of everyone in your party before choosing a Kauai boat tour. Please don’t hesitate to call our staff at 808-335-0815; we are more than happy to answer all your questions and assist you in selecting the most appropriate Kauai boat tour for you and your group.

• Chevron down Continental Breakfast
• Medium Roast Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate
• Breakfast Pastries
• Scrambled Eggs with Sauteed Veggies & Cheese (Vegetarian/GF)
• Fresh Fruit Salad (Vegan/GF)
• Oatmeal packets available
• Chevron down Gourmet Deli-Style Lunch
• Locally Made Bread (GF Option Available)
• Deli Meats (Turkey, Ham, Pastrami, Salami)
• Cheeses (Cheddar, Swiss)
• Sandwich Veggies (Lettuce, Tomato, Sprouts, Onion, Pickles, Pepperoncini)
• Sauces (Mayo, Mustard, Horseradish Mayo, Sriracha)
• Pasta Salad (Vegetarian)
• Veggie Crudité with Ranch (Vegetarian) and Roasted Red Pepper Hummus (Vegan/GF)
• Coconut Cookies
• Sugar Cookies

Your Tour Includes

• Lehua Crater, Niihau’s North Shore, the Napali Coast, marine life, and more!
• Continental breakfast and gourmet deli lunch
• Free beverages all day — with beer and wine served after we snorkel
• All snorkeling equipment and instruction
• The chance to see humpback whales (peak season Dec-Apr)

Tour Details

• Check in at 6:00 a.m. at our  Port Allen location (time varies by season).
• Tour length: 7 hours
• For safety, no pregnant women or children under 5 are allowed on this tour.
• Tax not included

Note that tours often fill up 2-3 weeks in advance. Booking your tour early in your vacation window is a good idea in case the weather forces us to postpone your tour.

We pride ourselves on creating fun and memorable ocean adventures for our guests. Your safety is our top priority; therefore, all tour routes, destinations, and snorkeling activities are dependent on ocean and weather conditions. If you are joining us during our winter season November – March, tours can be more often impacted by weather. Conditions around Kauai can change quickly, so our expert captains are constantly analyzing and may wait until check-in time to determine the best route for the day. If that occurs you will have the opportunity to go on the altered tour, reschedule to another day (availability permitting), or cancel your tour at no charge if it is weather-related. If you have any questions or concerns, please call us at 808-335-0815 so we can help create the best experience for you and your family!

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“ Seeing the Na Pali coast would have been enough and made the trip worth it. But then we headed over to the forbidden island for some snorkeling. I have never seen such an awesome sight. The corals and fish were so clear. We were able to see an octopus, an eel, and so many different fish. “

A Peek Inside Niihau: Hawaii’s “Forbidden Island”

Apart from exclusive tours, this living time capsule is closed to the public

We're dedicating  our July features  to the world’s most beautiful and unique beaches and islands. With many travelers finally able to take the coveted beach vacation they’ve had to put off for over a year, there’s never been a better time to celebrate the sensational coastlines and calm waters that nab a starring role in our dreams. Dive into our features to learn more about  off-the-radar beaches you should consider  for your next trip,  how one Spanish community came together to save its coastline , an ultra-exclusive Hawaiian island you might not have heard of, and  game-changing beach hacks  recommended to us by the experts.

It’s hard to imagine that just 17 miles from the beachside resorts of Kauai island , there exists a small stretch of land that has remained untouched since the days of early Hawaii. For Kauai residents, the image of Niihau island rising from the ocean horizon is an all too familiar one, though most will never set foot on its shores.

The bulk of Niihau is restricted to its 70 full-time residents and their families or to those who received a coveted invitation from the family who has owned the 69-square-mile island since 1864. There are no paved roads, hospitals, police stations, grocery stores, or indoor plumbing. Residents rely on rainwater catching systems for water and a handful of solar panels for electricity, procuring their meals from the land by hunting, fishing, or farming. This unspoiled ecosystem is a haven for many of the state’s endangered or vulnerable species, while the island’s residents contribute to preserving the Hawaiian language and culture with their dedication to living the lifestyle of their ancestors.

For those who dream of experiencing perhaps the most exclusive island destination on earth, the family that owns the island has opened up portions of Niihau to small tours. However, a visit won’t come without a hefty price tag and certainly more than a few restrictions.

Niihau's History

According to the Niihau Cultural Heritage Foundation, the history of Niihau has been passed down throughout the generations by way of traditional Hawaiian chants. The legend goes that the volcano goddess Pele made her first home on the island of Niihau before moving down the island chain to Hawaii Island . Geologically speaking, Niihau is believed to have been formed by a secondary volcanic vent after the Kauai volcano began erupting.

Niihau’s first great chief was Kahelelani, followed by Kā‘eo, and then Kaumuali‘i, born in 1790. Kaumuali‘i became king of Kauai and Niihau, the last two islands to become united under the rule of Kamehameha I in 1810.

In 1863, the Sinclair family came to Honolulu from New Zealand in search of land to purchase for ranching and were offered Niihau by King Kamehameha IV. After Kamehameha IV passed away in November of that year, his brother Kamehameha V completed the transaction in 1864 for the purchase price of $10,000, granting James McHutchison Sinclair and Francis Sinclair ownership of the entire island.

When the Sinclairs purchased the island in 1864, they committed to maintaining Niihau's Hawaiian culture. Brothers Bruce and Keith Robinson, descendants of the Sinclairs, own the island today, and they have continued to protect the island from the pressures of the outside world. In an interview with the New York Times , Keith Robinson revealed the words that Kamehameha spoke as he signed the contract in 1864: ''Niihau is yours. But the day may come when Hawaiians are not as strong in Hawaii as they are now. When that day comes, please do what you can to help them.''

Bringing alcohol, tobacco, or guns onto the island is strictly forbidden and risks eviction, and in the past, the family has required all residents to attend church on Sundays. The island first earned its “forbidden” status in the 1930s, when the Robinsons completely cut off visits to Niihau to protect inhabitants from new diseases, including measles and, later, polio. 

The Language of Niihau

Niihau is the only place in the world where Hawaiian is still the primary language; the island has its own unique dialect (Olelo Kanaka Niihau) spoken within the community that differs slightly from the traditional Hawaiian language (Olelo Hawaii). The Niihau dialect is closer to the original Hawaiian language that predates the missionary arrivals to the islands, who altered the language while documenting it.

How Residents Live

Historically, Niihau residents always had access to full-time employment through the Niihau cattle ranch, but employment opportunities became much more sparse when the ranch closed in 1999. People who couldn’t secure employment in the school turned to making and selling Niihau shell leis , a practice that has helped preserve the island's culture. Some of the pieces sell for thousands of dollars. Limited employment opportunities have resulted in a declining population; the 2010 census showed 170 full-time residents on the island, while today, the population is estimated to be around 70.

It is not uncommon for Niihauans to regularly travel back and forth between Kauai and Niihau for things like groceries and work. In fact, the island’s population is known to fluctuate pretty dramatically during the summer months when school is out, and families go off-island to travel and visit loved ones. Sometimes the population dips as low as 30 people.

Residents use solar panels for electricity and to heat their water. The island’s school installed a 10.4-kilowatt photovoltaic power system with battery storage in December 2007 so that students could learn computer skills, but Niihau still functions without internet access.

Conservation Efforts on Niihau

It isn’t just the culture of Niihau that benefits from the untouched isolation the island provides, but also the plants and animals. There, native species can live and thrive undisturbed by crowds and infrastructure, much like they did before the arrival of Europeans to Hawaiian shores in the late 1770s.

Both Robinson brothers are known as avid environmentalists. They use their influence over the island to implement programs to protect the federally endangered Hawaiian monk seals and other threatened species of flora and fauna. Monk seals are one of the world's most endangered marine animals, with a total population of only 1,400 individuals. A vast majority of those seals live around uninhabited islets in the Hawaiian archipelago. Among the main islands, Niihau has one of the largest concentrations of seals.

The island is also a critical habitat for the endangered olulu plant and the Pritchardia aylmer-Robinson (named for the Robinson family), the only palm species endemic to Niihau. Keith Robinson also manages a private botanical garden on Kauai where he maintains several Native Hawaiian plants, some of which have already gone extinct in the wild.

How You Can Visit Niihau

Although there isn't an island in the state that encompasses Hawaiian culture more than Niihau, it is not a place to vacation. There are no cars, no stores, no paved roads, no indoor plumbing, and no internet. Residents combat the arid climate—Niihau only sees annual rainfall inches in the double digits compared to Kauai's triple-digit numbers—using rainwater catchers for drinking water and get their food from hunting, fishing, gathering, or farming. Widespread tourism would strain the already-limited resources that the current community and future generations need to survive.

In recent years, however, the Robinson family has opened up parts of the islands for limited, low-impact tourism opportunities. These tours are exclusive (and pricey) because maintaining privacy and seclusion from the outside world for Niihau residents remains the highest priority. The tours won’t take tourists into the main village of Puuwai or interact with the locals in any way, but rather tours bring visitors to some of the island’s most iconic beaches and landscapes for several hours at a time.

Helicopter Tours

The family began selling half-day helicopter tours to Niihau to fund the chopper itself, which is used primarily for emergency evacuation of Niihau residents. The company, known as Niihau Helicopters Inc. , offers excursions with an aerial tour over Niihau before landing on one of the island’s pristine beaches (the chosen beach may change depending on factors like wind conditions).

After landing, visitors are given a few hours to explore the beach, swim, go snorkeling, or just relax and take in the unique surroundings. The tour also includes lunch and refreshments, as well as commentary from the helicopter pilot as you cruise over the island. Half-day tours run for $630 per person with a minimum of five people per tour, but chartered excursions are available for a flat rate of $3,150. 

Niihau Safaris

Also organized by the Robinson family, Niihau Safaris Ltd. was developed to help control the island’s wild boar and feral sheep populations, which have grown to unsustainable numbers since being introduced in the 1860s. Although they are technically an invasive species, these boar and sheep represent a vital food source for the island’s residents; however, as the full-time population of humans continues to fluctuate, the animals’ numbers have gotten out of control. Feral pigs and sheep can cause extreme damage to the environment through wallowing and rooting. They can destroy crops and habitats for native species and compete with native plants and animals for resources. The company continuously monitors the wild populations of boar and sheep, helping to maintain the balance between species throughout the island’s ecosystem.

Although booking a boat tour is the most affordable option, it won’t get you to the island itself. A snorkel or diving trip goes as far as the smaller, uninhabited island of Lehua, located just off Niihau.

Two companies offer boat and snorkel tours to Lehua Island, Holo Holo Charters and Blue Dolphin Charters . Both snorkel tours combine Niihau with Kauai’s Na Pali Coast and range from $250 to $285 per person for a seven-hour excursion. For experienced, certified scuba divers, Seasport Divers and Fathom Five Divers also visit Lehua. Tours begin from Koloa, Kauai, and take participants across the often-rough Kaulakahi Channel to Lehua.

Hawaii Marine Animal Response. " Hawaiian Monk Seals ." 2020.

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Niihau + Napali Super Tour

Duration 7 Hours

Adults $310

Children 5-12 $290

Check in at 6:00 a.m. For safety, no children under 5 allowed on this tour

Head across the channel to the “Forbidden Island” of Niihau.

Experience the adventure of a lifetime on our premier, award-winning tour that takes you up the majestic Napali Coast and across the Kaulakahi Channel to Lehua Crater off the “Forbidden Island” of Niihau—all in one amazing day! With breakfast, snorkeling, lunch, and drinks included—this unforgettable 7-hour Kauai tour to Niihau is also an excellent value. Say yes to adventure!

The adventure begins with a continental breakfast at sunrise as we leave Port Allen and cruise by Kauai’s westside to the world-famous Napali Coast—with its 4,000-foot cliffs, an abundance of waterfalls, lush emerald valleys, magical sea caves, rainbows, turtles, monk seals, and dolphins. Napali is more than a coast; she’s a force, and no trip to Kauai is complete without a visit! Your Captain will narrate the journey with the legends, stories, and history of this absolutely mind-blowing stretch of Kauai’s northern coastline. Say “cheese!”, because this is the ultimate photo opportunity!

Once we’ve sufficiently basked in Napali’s glory, it’s time to open up the engines and let Holoholo cruise across the 17-mile Kaulakahi Channel to Lehua Crater off Niihau’s coast. The crescent-shaped crater is a State Wildlife Sanctuary so there are sea birds galore, including several endangered and native species. We also love Lehua Crater’s “keyhole” rock formation, which is definitely one of the coolest things to experience.

Your captain will share the stories of this unique area and culturally significant land. There is a small population of native inhabitants on Niihau, so we never land onshore or disrupt their environment. Niihau is a fascinating place, your captain will share how it got its nickname “The Forbidden Island”, but long story short, it’s literally forbidden for almost everyone on the planet to go there. You know what that means, amazing snorkeling!

We’ll head to our snorkel location, we have several options in the area, so your captain will determine what’s best for the day based on wind, swell, currents, and other conditions. Snorkel locations are along the outside of Lehua Crater or off the coast of Niihau. A crew member will dive in, tie us off securely to the mooring, and then we’ll set you up with the right size fins and goggles. Next, we’ll go over some safety things and splash—you’re snorkeling!

The waters off Lehua and Niihau are considered some of the best in all of Hawaii and are known to offer over 100 feet of visibility on some days. Here you will have the opportunity to see endemic fish species found nowhere else in the world, endangered monk seals, manta rays, underwater lava cathedrals, and much, much more. Make sure you bring your underwater camera to capture all the moments.

Snorkel time can be up to an hour, depending on the day. Of course, if snorkeling isn’t your thing, you can always just chill on Holoholo and shoot the breeze with your fellow passengers or lay out on the nets and get your tan on!

Post-snorkeling, it’s lunchtime, woo-hoo! We’ll serve you up some ono grinds (delicious food). Water, juice, and soft drinks are available throughout the entire day, but after snorkeling—now this is the time to start cracking the cold ones for those who choose—we’ve got a nice selection of beers, wines, and seltzers for you to enjoy all the way back across the Kaulakahi Channel.

Holo Holo Charters has been offering Niihau boat tours from Kauai since 1997, longer than any other Kauai boat tour company. Over all these years, we’ve modified and upgraded our boat, refined our menu, and dialed in all the details. Come adventure with us and have the most fun, exciting, and visually stunning day of your Hawaiian vacation!

This is a full day of fun and adventure, most people can’t get enough, but for some people, seven hours may be too long on the water. We encourage you to consider the stamina of everyone in your party before choosing your adventure, we want to be sure no one is limited in their ability to have a good time! If you have questions or want to discuss further, please call our staff at 808-335-0815 so we can assist in finding the right adventure for you and your guests.

Your Tour Includes Lehua Crater, Niihau’s North Shore, the Napali Coast, marine life, and more! Continental breakfast and gourmet deli lunch Free beverages all day — with beer and wine served after we snorkel All snorkeling equipment and instruction The chance to see humpback whales (peak season Dec-Apr)

Tour Details Check in at 6:00 a.m. at our Port Allen location (time varies by season).

Tour length: 7 hours For safety, no children under 5 are allowed on this tour. Tax not included Note that tours often fill up 3 – 5 days in advance. Booking your tour early in your vacation window is a good idea in case the weather forces us to postpone your tour.

Continental Breakfast Scrambled Eggs (Sautéed Veggies, Cheese): Vegetarian Bakers Choice (Danishes, Muffins, Cinnamon Rolls, Croissants, etc.): Contains Butter + Eggs Fresh Seasonal Fruit: Vegan/GF Medium Roast Coffee Oatmeal Tea & Hot Water [Served buffet style, to be served by 1 crew member]

Gourmet Deli-Style Lunch Turkey + Cheddar Wrap or a Vegetarian GF Hummus Wrap Somen Salad: Vegetarian Veggie Crudite: Vegan/GF Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Vegan/GF Ranch: Vegetarian Chocolate Chip Cookies & Oatmeal Craisin Cookies: Contains Butter + Eggs Beer and wine available after snorkeling [Served buffet style, to be served by 1 crew member]

We pride ourselves on creating fun and memorable ocean adventures for our guests. Your safety is our top priority; therefore, all tour routes, destinations, and snorkeling activities are dependent on ocean and weather conditions. Conditions around Kauai can change quickly, so our expert captains are constantly analyzing and may wait until check-in time to determine the best route for the day. If that occurs, you will have the opportunity to go on the altered tour, reschedule to another day, or cancel your tour at no charge if it is weather related.

Disclaimer: This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It may not be suitable for individuals who are physically challenged. Those who suffer from motion sickness should take precautions. Safety and your experience are always our top priority. Ocean conditions can sometimes turn rough, therefore all tour routes and destinations are subject to change due to weather. Snorkeling depends on ocean conditions. Please review our full Passenger Policy here.

COVID-19 Statement

Holo Holo Charters knows the importance of protecting beautiful Kaua’i. Our primary goal is to ensure the safety of our guests, employees, and small island community. We look forward to providing safe and exciting ocean adventures for you, our extended ‘ohana.

We are taking additional care to minimize the risks associated with travel and group activities. We ask that all guests follow the guidelines below and practice care with health and hygiene. If you or any member of your party has been feeling ill, please let us know as soon as possible.

Guests are required to complete a digital health waiver as well as a COVID-19 health screening prior to proceeding on tour. If you or any member of your party have had symptoms related to COVID-19 including sore throat, cough, fever, shortness of breath, etc. we request that you stay home and seek medical care. Please sanitize your hands prior to entering our office and prior to boarding our vessel. Wash or sanitize your hands frequently. Please follow social distancing guidelines at all times. Maintain a distance of 6 feet between yourself and other guests who are not a part of your family/group whenever possible. Please cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Holo Holo Charters – COVID-19 Company Policies

Holo Holo Charters is taking additional steps in our daily operations by cleaning, disinfecting, and updating protocols to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our guests and employees. Our policies adhere to the U.S. Coast Guard’s COVID-19 safety requirements, CDC recommendations, and local requirements.

Our commitment to you:

We have increased our cleaning and sanitization procedures onboard the vessels to exceed CDC guidelines, including physical cleaning with EPA-approved disinfectant. Additional hand sanitizer stations are available throughout our office and the vessels for your safety. Frequent wipe-downs of high-touch common areas are performed in our office and onboard our vessels. Holo Holo checks all employee temperatures daily. Any employee having a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher will not be permitted to work to ensure the safety of our employees and guests. Each employee is required to pass a health screening before clocking in for their shift. All complimentary snorkeling gear (snorkel, mask, fins, and flotation devices), are cleaned and sanitized before and after every use, using protocols and products suggested by the CDC. All onboard meals are served in accordance with state requirements.

Boat Details

If you’re looking for a spacious vessel, Holo Holo has got you covered! This 65-foot long and 24-foot wide, agile power catamaran was built with safety and comfort in mind.

Holo Holo was designed to eliminate side-to-side rolling motion by slicing though the water, resulting in a smooth ride. Twin diesel engines provide the power to get you to the beautiful sights of the Napali Coast and Niihau faster than any other vessel.

The Niihau & Napali Super Tour is Holo Holo Charters’ signature tour, on our signature vessel. In 1997, our flagship, Holoholo, was designed by our company’s founder and built right here on the south side of Kauai, specifically to take people safely and comfortably to dramatic locations like Napali, Lehua Crater, and Niihau.

Holoholo is a powerful, sleek, and comfortable, 65-foot power catamaran fitted with twin Cummins QSB diesel engines. Our signature vessel was made for these waters, and she can comfortably cruise up to 22 knots (about 25 miles per hour), making it possible for us to cover more than 90 nautical miles during this tour. Holoholo’s low center of gravity and hull design provides for a secure, comfortable ride and spares you the extra bounce associated with some double-decker boats. Holoholo is meticulously, lovingly maintained and she’s the vessel to carry you safely on your Niihau boat tour.

While Coast Guard certified for up to 65 passengers, we don’t exceed 49, which means more room to sightsee, snorkel, relax and enjoy your time on the water. Ample seating is available throughout the vessel, the bow provides an exciting and wet ride at times, while the stern has comfortable bench seating with unrestricted views of the coastline.

The cabin area features a bar and seating at two large tables, plus additional bench seating to keep you out of the elements, as well as space to store your belongings. Two heads (restrooms) are located on deck for your convenience (no need to climb or descend a ladder to use the facilities).

When it’s time to snorkel, you’ll find a swim step at the stern for ease of entry, and a ladder below the surface for quick and easy re-boarding. After snorkeling rinse off with a freshwater shower.

Cancellation Policy

• Holo Holo Charters reserves the right to refuse service due to safety and/or health conditions.

• All tour routes and snorkel destinations are subject to change or may re-route due to weather and sea conditions.

• All no-shows or tours cancelled within 24 hours of check-in time is a 100% charge of full fare. Larger groups of 6 or more have a 7 day (1 week) cancellation policy.

• There is a late rescheduling fee (24 hours prior to check in) of $25 per person.

Wonderful experience!

Private Ni`ihau Island Snorkel Tours

Ni’ihau snorkeling boat tour and lehua crater.

Enjoy an epic day on the ocean traveling across the Kaulakahi channel to the mysterious, privately owned Island of Ni`ihau and adjacent Lehua Crater. 

Often  referred to as “The Forbidden Island”, Ni`ihau lies 18 miles to the west of Kaua’i and has a very small population.  The island is restricted to only those of Native Hawaiian descent.  Ni`ihau has its own dialect of the Hawaiian language and its own unique history and culture.  It is known for its rare Ni`ihau Shell Lei which are hand picked and crafted by the talented artisans of the Island.

Our powerful and comfortable Super Raft is able to bring us across the channel in an exhilarating 45 minutes.  Enjoy unobstructed views as we journey across the Kaulakahi channel to Ni`ihau and the wind-worn walls of Lehua Crater (a dormant volcanic cinder cone).  

There is no limit to what we might see in the channel waters between Kauai and Ni’ihau.  Our journey across the ocean may feature Pilot and Humpback Whales (seasonally) as well as native sea birds, Spotted Eagle Rays, Manta Rays, Hawaiian Sea Turtles, Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, and Hawaiian Monk Seals.   We might even come across a Whale Shark.

Once there, we enjoy the most untouched snorkeling areas of clear blue water.  While snorkeling you may encounter marine life including Hawaiian Monk Seals, Dolphins, Spotted Eagle Rays and an endless variety of colorful reef fish.  As you take in breathtaking views and world-class photo opportunities, your friendly captain and crew will fill you in on the rich history of the area. 

Read about the comforts and performance of our Luxury Super Raft here.

What to Bring

All guests are provided with a 10-Liter dry bag which has ample space for a towel, photography equipment, mobile phones, sunscreen, and other small equipment or necessary medications.  Snacks and beverages are provided.  Guests should travel light and only pack what will be needed on board.

What You Need to Know

This is a private charter for up to 28 guests.

Please contact us directly for rates and availability at (808) 651-4502.

Snorkeling:

This is a snorkeling-focused tour and guests should be comfortable in the ocean and familiar with snorkeling equipment.   Full-face snorkel masks are not permitted on board our vessel due to safety.  Full-face snorkel masks can prevent the user from communicating with the captain and crew. 

Each of our tours is dependent on the weather in terms of what we can and cannot do.  All tours, destinations, and snorkeling are dependent on weather conditions and at the captain’s discretion for safety.

If you are pregnant, have recently had surgery, or have back or neck injuries/issues, this is NOT the trip for you.  Children 7 and up are welcome.  All passengers must be able to walk onto the vessel unassisted.    Please visit our FAQ section for more information. If you have questions about accessibility, please call us at (808) 651-4502.

Ni`ihau Island & Lehua Crater Tour

Departing Port Allen Harbor

Check-in 45 minutes prior

Tour Duration:  5 hours

Includes: snorkeling gear, dry bag, snacks & beverages

*10% Early Booking Courtesy

*10% Military Courtesy

*Local Kama`aina Courtesy

Call (808) 651-4502 to Book

Ni`ihau & Lehua Crater Snorkel Tours

*Local Kama`aina

Call to Book (808) 651-4502

Private ni`ihau island snorkel tour.

Enjoy an epic day on the ocean traveling across the Kaulakahi channel to the mysterious, privately owned Island of Ni`ihau and adjacent Lehua Crater.

Our powerful and comfortable Super Raft is able to bring us across the channel in an exhilarating 45 minutes.  Enjoy unobstructed views as we journey across the Kaulakahi channel to Ni`ihau and the wind-worn walls of Lehua Crater (a dormant volcanic cinder cone).

Once there, we enjoy the most untouched snorkeling areas of clear blue water.  While snorkeling you may encounter marine life including Hawaiian Monk Seals, Dolphins, Spotted Eagle Rays and an endless variety of colorful reef fish.  As you take in breathtaking views and world-class photo opportunities, your friendly captain and crew will fill you in on the rich history of the area.

This is a snorkeling-focused tour and guests should be comfortable in the ocean and familiar with snorkeling equipment.   Full-face snorkel masks are not permitted on board our vessel due to safety.  Full-face snorkel masks can prevent the user from communicating with the captain and crew.

Rave Reviews

Epic experiences on our ni`ihau & lehua crater snorkeling tours.

Picture Perfect Day!

” My friends and I had such an amazing trip to Ni’ihau with captain J. The boat ride  was super smooth and the weather was perfect. We saw Dolphins, Humpback whales, Melon Head whales, Manta Rays, tons of fish, and big underwater arch ways and 300ft shelf drop offs. “

– Mel

Truly Epic adventure!!

” A Ni’ihau snorkel/dive was on my bucket list and I finally got there with Captain J’s!  The channel crossing is no joke if there’s a swell, but the ride was very comfortable all things considered.  When we arrived at Ni’inau, we saw monk seals, manta rays, and tons of birds. “

– Rebby

This Boat Flies!

” I had the pleasure of going to Ni`ihau on Captain Jʻs super raft.  This boat flies and rides super smooth. The water around the island is tranquil and we snorkeled with resident monk seals. Great fun – a must while visiting Kauai! “

– Jack F

NaPali Coast and Niihau Boat Tours

Come aboard with us to Kauai’s NaPali Coast! Our large 65-foot catamarans are ready to go for a fun-filled day, whether you choose our morning snorkel or afternoon sunset dinner cruise. Our exciting, heart pumping raft tours delight the more adventurous and we offer whale watching tours seasonally. We are the only NaPali boat company that guarantees dolphins.

NaPali Coast and Niihau Boat Tours Family Snorkel – Sunset Dinner Cruises – NaPali Rafting – Dolphins & Whales

Deluxe NaPali Coast Snorkel 5.5 Hrs | Morning Tour Begin your day with our most popular morning tour aboard one of our custom-built 65′ catamarans! Learn More NaPali Coast Sunset Dinner 4 Hrs | Afternoon Tour Experience the beauty of NaPali coastline and one of the most majestic sunsets in the world. Learn More NaPali Coast Raft Adventure 5 Hrs | Morning Tour Prepare yourself for the adventure of a lifetime exploring sea caves and marine life. Learn More Why Blue Dolphin Charters

Blue Dolphin Charters has been operating on the NaPali Coast of Kauai for forty years. Our family-owned and operated business has greeted generations of passengers and repeat visitors over the years.

Our spacious 65’ catamarans offer excellent views from our open and upper decks, both with outdoor seating.

Passengers of any age will enjoy the views, snorkeling, the food, dolphins, sea life, and even a waterslide for the kids and young at heart!

Environmentally Conscious

Family Friendly

Family Owned & Operated

Dolphin Guarantee

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We Guarantee Dolphins

Blue Dolphin Charters is the ONLY NaPali charter tour company to offer a guarantee that you will see dolphins on your morning adventure or you will receive another tour on us during your stay!

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12 Fascinating Things To Know about Niihau, Forbidden Island Hawaii

• Destinations
• United States

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

A privately owned island with an estimated 170 residents, Niihau, aka Niʻihau, is commonly referred to as Hawaii’s “Forbidden Island.” This invite-only destination tantalizes travelers from across the globe due to its extreme exclusivity.

Situated approximately 18 miles northwest of Kauai , Niihau extends 5 miles and has been privately owned for more than 150 years. While Hawaii’s Niihau Island remains closed to the public, the reasons why might come as a surprise. A hint: It’s not because you have to be rich and famous to visit the island.

Quite the contrary, Niihau’s owners are upholding a promise made to a former Hawaiian king Kamehameha to protect the island from the outside world and to maintain the island’s beloved Hawaiian heritage. If you’re curious about Hawaii’s Forbidden Island, here are 12 fascinating things to know about Niihau.

1. It Was Originally Bought For $10,000 Worth Of Gold

One of the most riveting facts about the Forbidden Island has to do with the story of its purchase. History has it that in 1864, Elizabeth Sinclair originally bought the 70-square-mile island from King Kamehameha V for a mere $10,000 in gold. Though this amount of money can’t even buy a small home in today’s economy, it was quite a large sum at the time.

The king’s only request was that the Sinclair family protect the island and its residents from outside influences — a promise that still rings true today.

Today, Keith and Bruce Robinson, descendants of the Sinclairs, are the sole owners of the island and are committed to its preservation and its proud Hawaiian heritage.

In a plea to state lawmakers to help protect the island, Bruce Robinson stated that “over a hundred years ago, a king asked our family to take care of the people. We’re here today for that fulfillment of that promise.”

2. It Was Deemed The “Forbidden Island” Due To A Polio Epidemic

There are various myths and legends as to why Niihau is named the “Forbidden Island,” the most popular being that you have to be invited by the Robinsons in order to visit. Though this is presently true — minus a few exceptions you will see below — this wasn’t the case when the name was originally construed.

During a 1952 polio epidemic in the Hawaiian Islands, Niihau became known as the “Forbidden Island” since you had to have a doctor’s note to visit in order to prevent the spread of polio.

In an interview with ABC News , Bruce Robinson explained, “My uncle wanted to protect the residents here from the epidemic and it was forbidden to come out here unless you had a doctor’s certificate, and there was a 2-week quarantine. And it worked. We never got polio out here.”

These words resonate today, more than 70 years later, as another virus rampaged around the world and forced governments to close the border. However, the little-known westernmost island in the Hawaiian archipelago still retains its mystique, largely devoid of Western influences and embracing its native dialect and Hawaiian culture.

3. It Epitomizes A Nearly Forgotten Past

While some may consider it a modern-day nightmare and others view it as a peaceful utopian society, Niihau has rejected the use of today’s technologies and survives without electricity, running water, internet, shops, restaurants, paved roads, cars, or hotels.

Electricity on this famous Hawaiian island is produced by the sun or a generator, as opposed to an electric utility. There are few to no cars on the island, and most people get around by bike or on foot.

Residents on this Hawaiian island hunt and fish using age-old methods passed down from their ancestors. Unfortunately, today, the island’s natural resources are in danger. Pressures from outside sources have strained the island’s ability to uphold traditions and dying cultural practices.

4. It’s Known For Niihau Shells

Named after Kahelelani, the first chief of the island of Niihau, teeny tiny kahelelani shells are used to make Ni‘ihau shell leis and jewelry. This folk art is still practiced on the island, but you don’t have to go to Niihau to find one. They are also available on other Hawaiian islands such as Kauai, Maui , and Oahu.

5. It’s Home To The Largest Lake In Hawaii

Encompassing more than 840 acres of land, Lake Halalii is an ephemeral lake. During the rainy seasons, it becomes Hawaii’s largest lake. Since Lake Halalii’s size is dependent upon rainfall, it is sometimes referred to as a playa or intermittent lake.

Lake Halalii is situated near Halulu Lake, which, according to Niihau: The Traditions of an Hawaiian Island , is the largest natural lake in the Hawaiian Islands.

6. It May Have As Few As 70 Residents… And Its Population Is Declining

There’s a lot of debate about how many Niihauans actually live on Hawaii’s Forbidden Island, mainly due to the fact that the Robinson family isn’t required to report population numbers.

The only settlement on the island is the main village of Puʻuwai, which literally translates to “heart” in Hawaiian.

While a 2010 census estimated the island’s permanent residents to be at about 170 strong, the Niihau Cultural Heritage Foundation claims this number is closer to about 70 inhabitants.

Due to factors including limited economic opportunities, few healthcare providers, and more homesites becoming available on the nearby island of Kauai , many Niihau residents are spending more time elsewhere, eventually leaving the island behind permanently.

7. Livestock And Other Animals Roam Freely

Livestock and other animals roam freely throughout the island’s kiawe trees, a species of mesquite. Sheep, cattle, and pigs are some familiar critters that can be found throughout the island’s kiawe trees, along with more exotic animals such as herds of eland, aoudad, and oryx. According to the Niihau Cultural Heritage Foundation , these animals were brought to the island from Molokai Ranch when its wildlife park closed in 1999.

8. There Are Many Rules To Follow

Established by earlier generations and upheld by the Robinsons, there are a number of rules that permanent residents of Niihau must follow.

Residents aren’t allowed to drink alcohol or own guns, and one former resident even claimed that men are not allowed to have long hair or earrings and that the entire village must attend church on Sundays. According to the New York Times , anyone caught breaking these rules can be evicted.

9. It’s Home To The Only School In Hawaii That Relies Entirely On Solar Power

Despite the fact that Niihau doesn’t utilize many modern-day technologies, residents’ practices are quite advanced when it comes to harnessing solar power.

The island is home to Hawaii’s only school that relies entirely on solar power for electricity. In December 2007, a 10.4-kilowatt photovoltaic power system with battery storage was installed at Niihau School, making it the only school in the state — and quite possibly in the entire nation — that is run solely on solar power.

10. It’s The Only Place In Hawaii Where Native Hawaiian Is The Most-Spoken Language

The Forbidden Island is “the only place left in the world where the predominant language is Hawaiian” according to the Washington Post . When the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in the late 1800s, the English language began to spread, and Hawaiian was inevitably spoken less and less.

Niihau’s isolation is one reason it was able to maintain the usage of its native tongue and preserve Hawaiian culture, and the small community has even developed its own separate dialect that’s only spoken on the Island. There is a lot I didn’t know about Hawaii until I visited.

11. You Have To Be Invited To Visit The Island…

The Robinson family is so dedicated to protecting the island from the outside world and upholding the former king Kamehameha V’s wishes that you have to be invited by either a member of the Robinson family or a permanent Niihau resident in order to visit.

Though this prevents travelers from visiting Niihau Island, there are a few exceptions to the rule.

18 miles from Niihau is another beautiful island, Kauai for which you do not need an invitation. Kauai’s official nickname is “The Garden Island” due to its beautiful and lush landscapes. Kauai is also known for its many waterfalls including Waipoo Falls which tumbles 800 feet into Waimea Canyon. Two scenic waterfalls on Kauai’s east side include Opaekaa Falls and the popular Wailua Falls (shown in the opening credits of the popular TV “Fantasy Island.”)

12. …Unless You Take One Of These Tours

If you’re looking for a way around Niihau’s travel restrictions, then you’re in luck. There are now two ways that travelers can visit Hawaii’s Forbidden Island: Niihau Helicopters and Niihau Safaris.

Helicopter Tours

Niihau Helicopters offers exclusive excursions to Niihau island on executive class twin-engine helicopters. Pilots provide a historical background of the island and guests are allowed to wander its secluded beaches — sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, looking for shells, and gazing upon beloved Hawaiian monk seals. Half-day tours cost $465 per person and group rates are available.

Hunting Safaris

The other way to visit Hawaii’s Forbidden Island is by embarking on a Niihau Safari. Niihau Safaris invites guests to a tropical and challenging safari experience, with the opportunity to hunt Polynesian boars, hybrid sheep, wild eland, aoudad, and oryx. Niihau Safaris welcomes participants of various ages and skill sets, and hunting rates are set at $3,000 per day.

How Do Residents Live on Niihau?

People on the island generally do fishing and farming. The islanders are completely dependent on rainwater for water and use solar panels for electricity and heating. Moreover, the island has no roads, no hospitals, no police stations, or grocery stores and employment opportunities are scarce because the island is cut off from the rest of the world. Recently, the family has opened a part of the island for tourism purposes but rules still apply.

Is the Niihau & Napali Boat Tour a Good Way To See The Island?

Yes, it is certainly one of the best options to visit the “Forbidden Island”. The tour is around seven hours long and it includes snorkeling equipment, breakfast, lunch, beverages, and the opportunity to see humpback whales during the right season. The tour departs from the island of Kauai and crosses the 17-mile-wide Kaulakahi Channel to see the Lehua Crater before landing on Niihau.

Why Are Niihau Shells So Expensive?

The lei jewelry is expensive because a single lei requires hundreds of tiny shells and all the painstaking and time-consuming work that the locals put into finding the shells, sorting, and organizing them, and then stringing them delicately in intricate, decorative patterns. There are four species of Ni’ihau shells that are found only on the island of Ni’ihau. The rarity of the shells also makes Ni’ihau shell lei very expensive.

What Are the Nearest Attractions to Niihau?

Visiting Niihau island could prove difficult because of the restrictions. However, numerous more accessible locations off the coast of Kauai offer similar sightseeing opportunities. One option is a boat tour along Kauai’s iconic Na Pali Coast. Or you can pay a visit to Koke’e State Park or Waimea Canyon for multiple drive-up lookouts, vantage points, hikes, and waterfalls, or Polihale Beach for shelling, long beach walks, and spectacular sunsets.

Is It Easy To Get Invited to Hawaii’s ‘Forbidden Island’ Niihau?

No, it isn’t. In reality, there have been a few invites to outsiders but this is rare. You wouldn’t be able to just get invited on a regular basis as only family are allowed to step on Niihau. Maybe it’s for the better because such a fragile ecosystem could be upset by something you may inadvertently carry on your person. People who don’t live the life we live could easily be disrupted by disease, mites, common colds, and flu.

Alexandra was first bitten by the travel bug when she studied abroad in Seville, Spain, in 2013. Since then, she graduated from Indiana University with a bachelor of arts in journalism and a double minor in Spanish and music. After graduation, she taught English abroad for four years in Spain and Thailand. Besides being a contributing writer for TravelAwaits, Alexandra has turned her passion for travel into a career as an expedition manager at National Geographic Expeditions, overseeing trips throughout Southeast Asia, Europe, and Africa.

Matador Original Series

How to Visit Niihau, Hawaii's ‘Forbidden' Island

W hen one of your friends says they’re going on vacation to Hawaii , they’re usually talking about one of the major islands. Chances are their destination is Oahu , Maui, Kauai , or the Big Island, all of which have a sophisticated tourism infrastructure. They’re probably not talking about Hawaii’s the archipelago’s westernmost isle: Niihau, Hawaii’s “forbidden island.”

At just 70 square miles and home to around 70 permanent residents, Niihau is a private Hawaiian island with no paved roads, no indoor plumbing, and, best of all, no crowds. Electricity is a relatively new development. To get around on the private Hawaiian island, residents travel by bicycle or on foot.

The island has its own unique culture and is home to the endangered Hawaiian monk seal, the most endangered seal in the world. Because it has virtually no tourism infrastructure, its beaches and natural habitats are pristine. Although it may sound mysterious and even inhospitable, it isn’t really as “forbidden” as its name suggests. Here’s everything you need to know about Hawaii’s least-visited island.

Traveling to Hawaii? Check out Matador’s guides to the best places to stay on each island: 9 of the most breathtaking Airbnbs on Maui The coolest Airbnbs on Oahu The best Airbnbs on Hawaii’s Big Island 13 stunning yet affordable Airbnbs on Kaui These Hotels on Hawaii’s Big Island Showcase the State’s Best Beaches Experience the Best of Honolulu at These Luxury Resort Hotels Kauai’s coolest hotels offer a truly relaxing beach escape

How Niihau became the forbidden island

A group of Ni’hauans, standing and sitting in front of a thatched dwelling. (Photo: Auckland War Memorial Museum )

Like an old family estate, the island of Niihau has been passed down from generation to generation for more than 150 years. The island was purchased from King Kamehameha IV for $10,000 in 1864 by Scottish widower Elizabeth Sinclair. Before the sale, however, the king requested that Sinclair always keep the best interests of the local Hawaiians in mind and to lend them assistance whenever possible. Now, the island is maintained by Bruce Robinson, Sinclair’s great-great-grandson, and the family has done its best to honor the king’s request.

When Westerners started colonizing the other Hawaiian islands, ousting the indigenous monarchy, the family rejected this colonization by secluding itself from the outside world. Aubrey Robinson, one of Sinclair’s descendants, prohibited outsiders from coming to the island in 1915, partly to protect native Niihauans from contracting foreign diseases.

Although the government of Hawaii endeavored throughout the 20th century to bring Niihau into the fold, turn it into a state park, and introduce the Niihauans to “civilization,” the Robinsons resisted state control. The fight continues to this day, but ultimately the family has been successful, and it remains the largest Hawaiian private island — and the only place in the world where the primary language of residents is native Hawaiian.

The current-day people of Niihau

As a result of its separation from the rest of Hawaii, Niihau has developed its own distinct culture and lifestyle. Most residents speak both English and the local Niihau dialect, and spend their days fishing and hunting. Modern technology is a rarity on the island, with no internet, stores, paved roads, cars, or indoor plumbing, and the school is the only one in the country to be powered entirely by solar energy. Due to the Robinson family’s strict Calvinist beliefs, there are also several social restrictions in place. Guns and alcohol are prohibited on the island, and men aren’t allowed to wear earrings or grow out their hair.

The Robinson family has kept its promise to Kamehameha IV to take care of its inhabitants. Supplies are brought to the island each week by the Robinsons from Kauai (the nearest island), and full-time work for residents is guaranteed on the Niihau Ranch. Though the ranch ceased operating as an actual ranch in 1999, it’s still part of the island’s nascent tourism program.

Niihau tours from Kauai

Photo: Suzie Dundas

Niihau’s “forbidden island” nickname sounds intimidating, but it’s not as prohibitive as you might think — though it earned the name for good reason. Due to a polio epidemic in 1952, the island was closed off to visitors to protect its residents from contracting the disease. And it worked. Niihau managed to avoid any cases — probably because the Robinson family required visitors to have a doctors note to land on the island, effectively preventing any average citizens or infected visitors from stepping ashore.

Though the nickname stuck, luckily visiting the island is no longer forbidden. But it’s not exactly simple. There are no ferry services taxiing tourists to Niihau from the other islands, and as you’d expect, no flights to Niihau, either. So you only have two options for setting foot on the island: take a helicopter tour from Kauai or reserve a spot on a hunting safari. Though there are a few other ways to get close to the island without touching it.

Helicopter tours of Niihau

You can reserve a helicopter tour (for a minimum of five people) directly from the tourism company of Niihau. Tours include your heli ride to the island, a beach landing, and several hours to snorkel or relax on the beach — plus snacks and drinks. You’ll need to contact Nihau Helicopters, Inc. to arrange your private tour, which starts at $465 per person. The helicopter office is located in the town of Kaumakani on Highway 50 in Kauai, about 30 minutes from the airport.

If you don’t want to land on the island but would prefer to just see it, you can book a tour with one of Kauai’s helicopter tour companies, which do various tours of Kauai’s coastlines (and inland sites, like the area where they filmed many of the scenes from 1993’s Jurassic Park ). Those tours are more affordable, with companies like Blue Hawaiian , Island Helicopters , and Sunshine Helicopters offering tours starting at $339, $249, and $294, respectively.

Niihau hunting safaris

Photo: padelphoto /Shutterstock

The second method of accessing Niihau is through a hunting safari (Niihau’s gun prohibition apparently doesn’t apply to hunting rifles). First, you’ll need to make sure you have a Hawaii Hunter Education Wallet Card, which you can only get buy completing a Hawaii hunter education course. Alternatively, if you already have a hunting license in your state, you can fill out an exemption request . From there, you’ll need to email the hunting safari company, run by the Robinson family, for details. Pricing varies, but the least-expensive fee is for non-hunting observers, which is around $800. Fees include transportation via helicopter from Kauai

Wild Polynesian boar and hybrid feral sheep are the island’s main game. What you’re allowed to pursue and what you’re allowed to bring back all impact the price, so be sure to email the family at [email protected] for more information well in advance of your preferred date. There’s a little information on the island’s official website , but you’ll need to contact the company regardless as all tours are private and bespoke.

If you do visit Niihau by helicopter or safari, don’t expect to encounter any local residents. Access to many parts of the island is restricted to visitors, so during your ground visit, you’ll likely find yourself on a deserted beach with little opportunity for straying very far.

Niihau boat tours from Kauai

For those eager who would like to get a taste of Niihau, but who don’t have the money or desire to book one of the above tours, there is an alternative. You can take a sightseeing boat tour from companies like Holoholo Kauai Boat Tours or Blue Dolphin Kauai , which includes a crossing of the channel to Niihau. Although landing on the coast of Niihau is forbidden, the boats usually moor just offshore, where guests can snorkel or bask in the sun with views of Niihau. Most tours also include breakfast, lunch and snacks, plus snorkeling gear, educational narration by the guides, and the chance to spot wildlife around Niihau.

Scuba diving near Niihau

Photo: SeaSport Divers

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Dive confidently with Seasport Divers, your trusted Niihau experts! Our commitment to safety and expertise makes exploring Niihau's cool underwater landscapes an extraordinary adventure. Join us for a dive like no other, where safety meets the thrill of Niihau's unique marine environment.

Welcome to the extraordinary world of scuba diving Hawaii's 'Last Forbidden Island.' Nestled just off the coast of Kauai, Niihau offers a unique opportunity to explore the untouched, vibrant, and thriving marine life that has made this remote paradise a must-visit for scuba divers. With over 37 years of experience and a deep connection to Kauai's diving community, we are the best choice for your next Niihau diving adventure.

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Due to its remote location and the type of diving conducted this dive is for experienced divers only with at least 30 logged dives or an Advanced Open Water certification.

• ✓   We'll provide light breakfast
• ✓   Large lunch will be served
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• Meeting is 6am at the Poipu store
• Bring a camera for incredible sights above and below the water.
• Sunscreen for an all day adventure (usually back at 6pm)
• Add Gear Rental - $45
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Enjoy diving with amazing underwater species found only in Hawaii.

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Take in the views as you cruise along the coast of Niihau and Lehua Crater.

Niihau, the "Forbidden Island" of Hawaii, holds a unique place in the archipelago's history and landscape. Its moniker, "Forbidden Island," emerged during a polio outbreak in the early 1900s when the island closed its coasts to protect its inhabitants. Even today, Niihau maintains a strict tourism policy, with only a handful of tour operators granted access to uninhabited areas. Overnight accommodations are unavailable, and excursions, mainly by helicopter or beach visits, are limited. In the early 1990s, the island introduced hunting safaris as a source of tourism income, permitting visitors to hunt specific wildlife while returning the meat to the locals.

The main Hawaiian Islands all have nicknames. Oahu is the “Gathering Place.” Maui is the “Valley Isle.” Kauai is the “Garden Island.” Niihau, the most western island about 18 miles northwest of Kauai, is the “Forbidden Island.”

Niihau became knowns as the forbidden island during the polio outbreak in the early to mid 1900s, when it closed it coasts and declined any visitors from coming to the island. It still has a strict tourism policy today which allows a limited number of tour operators to visit the island in uninhabited areas of the island and makes the name “Forbidden Island stick”. Overnight accommodations are not available and the current owners offer half day helicopter and beach excursions only. In the early 1990’s the island started to offer hunting safaris as a way of tourism income allowing visitors to hunt eland, aoudad, and oryx, as well as wild sheep and boars. However, any meat from the kills hunters make belongs to the locals and cannot be taken off the island.

It has been privately owned by the same family since 1864, when Elizabeth Sinclair purchased it from King Kamehameha V for $10,000 in gold. Today the island is managed by Robinson brothers, Bruce and Keith Robinson who are descendants family members of Elizabeth Sinclair. King Kamehameha V, sold the Island with the promise of preserving Niihau ways of life, traditions and their natural habitats . Wanting to leave the island relatively untouched from outside influences the new owners have turned much of the island into a conservation area, working to nurture the endemic flora and fauna. Aside from several bird species and rare plants, the island of Niihau is also home to the largest population of critically endangered Hawaiin monk seals. The islands isolated coasts offer the seals a protected and secluded grounds that produce a perfect combination for helping the monk seals breed and thrive along their coast.

The Island is approximately 6 million years old and the remnant of the southwestern slope of a much larger volcano. Niihau has a population between 160-170 residents making it Hawaii’s 7th largest populated island with the largest settlement of residents living in Puʻuwai. Even though visitors to Niihau are strictly monitored it is noted that many of the locals travel off the island frequently. Many residents travel regularly to the nearby island of Kauai for supplies and necessities. Populations has been in a slow decline from residents relocating to other Hawaiin islands for work, schooling or health care. Due to the frequent droughts that can last many months some residents are forced to evacuate to other islands and choose to remain there permanently.

Niihau is relatively free of vegetation and considered a desertic or arid Island with a lack of rainfall that is contributed to the rains being blocked in the east by the mountains in Kaua’i. It relies on the winter cyclones or Kona storms for its rainfall and spends many months in drought conditions. The Robinson’s grandfather, Aubrey Robinson planted 10,000 trees per year during much of his ownership of the island; Robinson’s afforestation efforts increased rainfall in the dry climate. The dry climate is ideal for the solar power that is used on Niihau, as they do not have electricity or running water. The Niihauan’s live off the land, growing their own food, hunting and fishing. The island is their livelihood and they protect it from the outside encroachments.

Niihau - The Forbidden Island

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• Shared 5 Hour Snorkel Niihau at The Forbidden Island (From $259.00)

Niihua – Hawaii’s Forbidden Island Offers Hunters A Traditional Hawaiian Experience

Hunters vacationing or hunting in Hawaii may enjoy a unique opportunity on the private island of Niihua, the Forbidden Island, where time is said to have stood still.

Purchased from King Kamehameha in 1864 by Elizabeth Sinclair, this island has been generally off limits to the public, preserving many of the traditional ways of life for the 200 indigenous Hawaiians living there.

Sinclair’s descendants, the Robinson family, now offer supervised day tours and day hunts on Niihau. SCI member Rick Sarkisian reports enjoying a hunt there for Polynesian boar and feral sheep this past May.

Niihua lies 18 miles from Kauai across the Kaulakahi Channel and is one of the oldest yet least modernized islands in the Hawaiian chain. Inhabitants’ primary language is Hawaiian, and they fish and hunt for their food in the traditional way with ropes, knives, spears and nets.

The island encompasses 72 square miles of an extinct volcano and features planted forests and brushy flatlands. Located in the rain shadow of Kauai, Niihua is surprisingly arid, so it does not have the lush tropical flora visitors might expect to find in Hawaii.

It is home to free-ranging wild boar, feral hybrid sheep, aoudad, eland and oryx. The pigs are decedents of those brought by the first Polynesian settlers centuries ago, but the sheep were introduced in 1864 as part of the Niihau Ranch cattle and sheep operation.

The ranch was shut down in 1999, unprofitable for most of the 20th century. The other species were more recently transplanted from Molokai Ranch. In 1992, the owners decided to allow hunting safaris as a form of income for the island and to prevent growing populations of animals from severely damaging the habitat of the island.

Sarkisian says he heard about the place while hunting on the Big Island in 2018. He researched the history and gave it try when he returned to Hawaii the following year.

Access is by a 20-minute helicopter charter from Kauai. Upon landing, Sarkisian says a local Hawaiian guide, Enoka, met him in a World War II vehicle once used as a weapons carrier.

Hunting involved driving in this truck to areas where Enoka knew the animals would be, then spotting and stalking on foot. Sarkisian says the sheep were very skittish and not at all easy to hunt.

Although the terrain where he hunted was flat, it was very brushy, making visibility difficult at times. Once he shot the sheep, he says several locals appeared to help with the skinning and butchery. He spent the rest of the morning hunting for boar. This involved having several people beating the brush to kick out boar, which tend to bed down during the day. Although they saw numerous pigs, Sarkisian says none of them had large tusks.

After a lunch break in a lean-to on the beach, they visited a waterhole that animals use in the afternoons and evenings. They watched numerous eland and other animals come to drink.

At the eleventh hour of the hunt, a large boar came to the water, and Sarkisian was able to take him as he left the pool.  Sarkisian warns that these boars are not big-bodied animals.

Polynesian pigs, he says, tend to run small with big heads and big tusks. His weighed about 150 pounds and is considered a typical island pig. His sheep, he says, is almost bare-skinned due to the brush constantly tearing at the hair on the animals there. The ram has a double curl and good mass, making it a very nice trophy.

Sarkisian is very happy with his experience. He says Enoka knew where to find animals and that he and his assistants did everything they could to get him a shooting opportunity.

Although Hawaiian is their primary language, most of the team spoke English as well. While they were mostly comfortable posing for photographs with him, Sarkisian says no one would allow him to take any video of them.

Other than that, he says they are very personable people, and he enjoyed his time with them.

Hunting on Niihau is open year-round. Hunters who do not want to travel with their firearms can rent a rifle from the operator. Sarkisian says he was provided a very accurate Remington 700 BDL in .270 with a 3-9x Bausch & Lomb scope. He says hunters should be prepared to walk a lot in hot, humid conditions and to shoot anywhere from 80 to 200 yards. He recommends the experience as a simple, fun hunt in an an unusual place.

“Anyone can do this hunt and have a good time,” he says. He only reminds fellow SCI members that these are day-hunts only. There are no accommodations on the island and all visitors must leave at the end of the day.

Helicopter charters originate from Kauai and are aboard an Augusta 109A twin engine. The cost is $2,200 per day per hunter with a maximum of four hunters at a time.

That includes one Polynesian boar, one sheep, roundtrip charter to Niihau, transportation on the island, a guide and skinners, lunch and snacks with cold drinks, trophy care in the field, packing of meat and boxing horns and skins for taxidermy. They can also handle shipping to your home if you desire.

Aoudad are another $2,700 for the trophy fee, and eland are $3,700. Rifle rentals cost $120. Hunting spouses are another $1,300; youth hunters are $1,000. Non-hunting observers are $700 and can spend the day touring, or combing the beaches, which are covered in tiny shells from which the inhabitants create beautiful shell leis and other jewelry. Some visitors choose to sun bathe with the monk seals that lay on Niiahau’s beaches.

World War II history buffs will be intrigued by the island’s past, particularly the “Niihau Incident,” which occurred on December 7-13, 1941. An Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service pilot crash-landed his Zero on Niihau after participating in the attack on Pearl Harbor.

The island residents were initially hospitable to him, in typical Hawaiian fashion, until they learned of the bombing. A struggle ensued between residents of Japanese descent trying to protect the pilot and the other residents of Niihau. Meanwhile, the pilot was trying to rendezvous with the Japanese Navy, whose intelligence had identified Niihau as uninhabited. A film entitled Enemy Within and released just this past April ( https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6525952/ ) depicts the events.

Hunters interested in visiting this island should contact Niihau Safaris at 877-441-3500 or send an email to [email protected] . More information is available at https://niihau.us .

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The Original Niihau + Napali Coast Boat Tour

Niihau Island & Lehua Crater

Niihau Island, known as the “Forbidden Island,” is one of the most mysterious of all the Hawaiian Islands, with a unique history and long-standing independence. It has been privately owned by one family for over 150 years, they enacted a closed-door policy in order to create a cultural preservation site for native Hawaiians.

Niihau was formed about five million years ago from a single shield volcano. Paniau is the remnant of the volcano, also the tallest peak on the island, once standing 4,600 feet above sea level. However, after heavy erosion, the Paniau mountain now peaks at just over 1,200 feet above sea level and 13,000 feet above the ocean floor. Niihau and Kauai are linked underwater 15 miles apart, by a channel over 2,500 feet deep called Kaulakahi channel. Niihau is about 200,000 years younger than Kauai so many geologists disagree about whether Niihau and Lehua were formed separately from Kauai.

The islet Lehua is attached to Niihau, located about three-quarters of a mile north of Niihau. It is a bare, crescent-shaped rim of a volcanic island. It is primarily composed of tuff, which is cemented volcanic ash, and contains blocks of basalt and limestone, which has created unique underwater rock formations and structures. Seabirds are abundant here, as well as whales, dolphins, monk seals and an incredible variety of fish, giving it a reputation for one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii.

Niihau in the Modern Era

In September 1863, a ship from New Zealand arrived on Kauai, carrying 13 family members, all named Robinson, Gay, or Sinclair. They were successful farmers in New Zealand, but had sold all their belongings to voyage to Hawaii in search of new opportunities. Elizabeth McHutchison Sinclair was the matriarch of the family and created lasting ties with the Hawaiian royalty. She sought to purchase land in Hawaii for ranching, and King Kamehameha agreed, knowing they were great assets to the islands.

The Robinson family was able to purchase Niihau from King Kamehameha in 1864 for $10,000. They also purchased land on Kauai at this time, making them one of the largest private landowners of Kauai County to this day. They own not just Niihau, but large tracts of agriculture land on Kauai that was used to grow sugar cane for over a hundred years.

The Robinson family decided to restrict access of Niihau back in 1864, giving it its nickname of the “Forbidden Island.” They put a policy in place to ensure that all those born on Niihau would be able to live there for their entire life with limited exposure to the outside world. 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.

Currently there is approximately 100-250 residents on Niihau, all thought to be full-blooded Hawaiians, and it is the last place in Hawaii where Hawaiian is still spoken fluently as the predominant language. The Robinson family provides residents with basic domestic and health needs. They employ most residents through the Niihau ranch, providing residents with wood-frame houses, modest salaries, and medical insurance. Although modern conveniences are not encouraged, compromises to strict isolation have been made in order to provide clothing, domestic needs, ranch equipment, and a few amenities.

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. The Niihau School serves children through the eighth grade, and has become the first school in Hawaii to become entirely run on solar panels. This has allowed students to become computer literate, demonstrating a possible trend for Niihau to slowly catch up with the modern world. The population of Niihau is consistently on the decline as students who wish to continue their education move off island and often do not return to live full time on Niihau.

The Niihau Shell Lei

Niihau is probably most famous for the Niihau shell necklaces or leis, that are handcrafted on island. There are four species of Niihau shells, or pupu Niihau . These shells are very unique, occasionally they are found on a few beaches of other Hawaiian Islands, but they are found only on Niihau with great quality and quantity. The Niihau shell leis are extremely valuable because of the painstaking detail and amount of work that goes into not just finding the shells, sorting, and organizing them, but also stringing them delicately in intricate decorative patterns. Holes are hand drilled in each tiny shell, in order to cause minimal damage.

The art of lei-making has been passed down for many generations; this is one of the few ancient Hawaiian arts still practiced today. A single lei requires hundreds of tiny shells, this time-consuming work and rarity of the shells make Niihau shell leis very expensive and has become an important source of revenue for residents of the island. The leis are considered fine jewelry and one of the only shells in the world that is insurable.

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Brittany Mahomes Takes ‘Big Day Trip’ with Daughter Sterling and Son Bronze — See the Photos!

The mom of two brought her kids along on a short getaway she shared in footage posted Saturday, April 6

Brittany Mahomes/Instagram

Brittany Mahomes is going on a day trip with her kids!

On Saturday, April 6, the mom of two, 28, posted sweet footage on her Instagram Stories of her on a “big day trip” with her 3-year-old daughter Sterling Skye , as her son Patrick "Bronze" Lavon III , 16 months, tagged along for the outing. 

In the first video shared, which she captioned, “Mama & Sterling day,” Brittany filmed Sterling as she sat on a private plane and tucked into a croissant as they made their way to their destination. 

“Cheese! Big day trip with my girl,” Brittany, who is the wife of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes , said behind the camera.

Their trip destination was revealed in a following photo as Sterling stood outdoors at a place tagged Whitehouse City Park in Whitehouse, TX. The family came, Brittany explained, to celebrate Sterling and Bronze’s cousin’s birthday there. 

“Went to mama’s old stomping grounds today to celebrate her cousin🥺🤍,” she wrote in the caption. 

Sterling sported a cute and colorful outfit for the trip as she was snapped wearing a purple and white shell-printed tee and matching purple shorts, topped off with a pair of glittery bright blue heart-shaped sunglasses.

Never miss a story — sign up for  PEOPLE's free daily newsletter  to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

The 3-year-old was next seen joined by her cousin Lexi and a couple of other young girls in a collage of photos posted as the group gathered around her cousin’s birthday cake and hung out together. 

“Happy Birthday sweet Lexi Girl🤍,” Brittany wrote in the caption, referring to her kids’ cousin. 

Bronze made an appearance next alongside his mom and sister in a second video as the trio snacked on snow cones while sitting on a bench outside.  

After feeding Bronze a spoonful, Brittany said, “snow cone approved.” She then panned the camera over to Sterling and laughed as she filmed her daughter taking a bite of hers while sitting beside the pair. 

Sterling was snapped in a final shot from the day trip standing outdoors again as she adjusted her heart-shaped sunglasses. 

“The most perfect girl in the whole wide world 🥺🤍,” proud mom Brittany added in the caption. 

Brittany and Patrick welcomed their daughter Sterling, on Feb. 20, 2021, and son, Bronze on Nov. 28, 2022. The childhood sweethearts tied the knot in March 2022.

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Exploring Ireland: Day trips worth taking from Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway

If you’re planning to go daytripping, where should you venture fionn davenport offers some suggestions.

Glendalough is one of the country’s most significant and beautifully located monastic sites. Photograph: Chris Hill

Whatever you think of the name, the concept of “daycations” is pretty straightforward: take a day to explore the region around where you live and then return to sleep in your own bed at night. It’s the chance to break up a regular routine, plus it’s a great way of engaging in a little tourism without spending a fortune on accommodation, usually the heftiest expense of any holiday.

And in Ireland, where tourist accommodation is squeezed by seasonality and availability – in the last couple of years, up to a third of all hotel beds have been tied up in public contracts – that can mean significant savings.

The idea is simple: be a tourist in your own area. Take a visit to a nearby attraction, or maybe explore some ruins. Go for a hike in the mountains, or kayak on a nearby lake. Everyone’s version of the ideal day out is different and can change depending on the season and the weather.

Here are some ideas on where to explore from the base of a number of Ireland’s largest populated areas – Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway.

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Have you ever visited Marsh’s Library in Dublin?

Of course, you could devote plenty of days to exploring without leaving the city centre: when was the last time you went to the Natural History Museum, for example? Have you ever visited Marsh’s Library or the Casino at Marino? And while we all know it’s there, have you ever actually been to the Guinness Storehouse? But there’s a lot to explore within a couple of hours’ drive of O’Connell Street – including some genuine surprises.

Brú na Bóinne, just west of Drogheda, is one of the most known neolithic sites in the world, a Unesco world Heritage attraction that draws hundreds of thousands of yearly visitors. If you have never been, you should go.

But if you like your neolithic sites without the crowds, there’s the cairns at Loughcrew , 50km to the west, near Oldcastle along the R154. Of the 32 tombs here, Cairn T is the most accessible, a 15-minute walk up the hill from the car park. Although it mightn’t seem as impressive as Newgrange, the passageway is illuminated during the spring and autumn equinoxes, and the passageway is visible when Heritage Ireland guides are present; otherwise, the key to the gate is available from the cafe at Loughcrew Gardens.

If you like your neolithic sites without the crowds, there’s the cairns at Loughcrew

Glendalough is one of the country’s most significant and beautifully located monastic sites, but it does get busy. A far less visited alternative is the Fore Valley in Co Westmeath, about 5km east of Castlepollard near the shores of Lough Lene. There’s nary a visitor here, but the setting for the ruins of St Féchín’s 7th century monastic village is stunning: a cluster of ruins huddled at the base of a beautiful valley, that is looped by a 3km walking trail. If you do visit, be sure to pick up a guide map at the Fore Abbey Coffee Shop, which will also explain the “seven wonders” of the valley – the monastery in the bog, the water that flows uphill, the tree that won’t burn, the water that won’t boil, the anchorite in a stone, the mill without a race, and the lintel raised by the prayers of St Fechin. And even if you don’t believe, it’s a beautiful place to linger.

The particularly arresting artwork in Spike Island by inmates is on display upstairs in the punishment block

Corkonians are spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do beyond the city limits. The train ride to Fota Island, for instance, is one of the most scenic in the country, as you chug past marshy Harper’s Island and over the bridges on Lough Mahon and the Slatty Water.

Fota has plenty to keep you entertained for the day with the wildlife park and, just by the tiger enclosure, Fota House , which can be visited by guided tour. Even if you don’t step inside, take time to walk around the gorgeous arboretum.

While it may lack the high-tech razzmatazz of its sister museum in Belfast, the visit to the old White Star Line building is a stirring one

Although most Corkonians are well familiar with Cobh, how many have set foot inside the excellent Titanic Experience ? While it may lack the high-tech razzmatazz of its sister museum in Belfast, the visit to the old White Star Line building (the last port of call before setting out into the North Atlantic) is a stirring one: when you enter you’re given a ticket with a real passenger’s name on it; you then go through the exhibits and find out at the end if they survived or not. Further along the seafront is the dock for Spike Island , whose 1300-year history is told in compelling detail; particularly arresting is the artwork by inmates upstairs in the punishment block.

Cork has no shortage of terrific hikes, including the wonderful cliff walk that starts at Knockadoon Pier, 45km east of the city on a headland looking out over Capel Island. The 7km-long looped cliff walk is stunning, taking you along the coastline past the old signal tower (which dates from 1803) and back to the pier, which is a popular spot for a swim. About 500 metres offshore, Capel Island is an uninhabited bird sanctuary; you’d need permission from Birdwatch Ireland to visit.

King John’s Castle has stood on the banks of the Shannon for 800 years, but when was the last time you went inside? Photograph: Eye Ubiquitous/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

There’s a lot to see in Limerick these days, from the relatively new to the very old. The wonderful International Rugby Experience opened in 2023 and tells the story of the sport as well as providing a chance to test your kicking skills. King John’s Castle has stood on the banks of the Shannon for 800 years, but when was the last time you went inside? If it’s been a while, you might enjoy the primer on Irish history (there’s a lot of gore) and the chance to try some medieval games in the courtyard, like a proper game of hopscotch.

What about experiencing Limerick from the water? Nev Sail has kayaking tours that start just behind the Hunt Museum and take you up and down the river, under the bridges and up close to the sturdy walls of the castle.

If you’re looking for more watery adventures outside the city, head north to Killaloe, where Aoife O’Mara’s My Next Adventure has a range of kayaking tours: the Brian Ború Experience is a two-hour trip through 1000 years of history (and 13 of Killaloe’s stone bridges) as far up as Lough Derg. The Full Moon Kayaking takes you right out into the middle of Lough Derg at sunset before returning to Killaloe.

For an even more active day out, the Ballyhoura Mountain Bike Trails are, at 98km, the largest of its kind in Ireland, weaving in and out of thick forest and gorgeous mountain views – and they’re only a 45km drive south of the city, just beyond Kilmallock. There are five loops of varying length and difficulty, from gentle, family-friendly slopes to rugged speed tracks designed to challenge the most intrepid riders (you might even catch world champion rider and local lad Oisin O’Callaghan going for a spin). If you don’t have a bike, you can rent everything – including helmets and protective pads – from the Ballyhoura Mountain Bike Centre at the base of the mountain. If you prefer to do your wandering on two feet, the waymarked Ballyhoura Way wends its way through 90km of forest trail, field paths, moorland and tarmac road.

Outside of Galway city, a journey around Lough Corrib is a fantastic day trip option

With Connemara, the Aran Islands and the Burren on its doorstep, Galwegians have no shortage of day trip options from the City of the Tribes. But even within the city there are some interesting ways to discover, not least with a tour that takes full advantage of Galway’s reputation as a capital of fine food.

Galway Food Tours is a local outfit that operates a range of food tours where you get to sample lots of different local produce, from sushi to chocolate. Day tours start outside McCambridge’s on Shop Street include six food and drink stops and you finish in the Soul Garden at the back of Massimo’s in the West End (where you bid farewell with a goody bag). They also offer whiskey and craft beer tours as well as a food and cycling tour that uses e-bikes.

Outside of the city, a journey around Lough Corrib is a fantastic day trip option. Just before you get to Oughterard, Aughnanure Castle was once home to the “fighting O’Flaherty’s”; these days the six-storey tower house on a rocky outcrop overlooking the lake is open to visitors. If you fancy getting out on to the lake, Corrib Cruises has twice-weekly summer sailings from Oughterard that take you out to explore the monastic ruins of Inchagoill, the largest island on the lake.

The bridge at Maam, Connemara, Co Galway, used in the 1952 film The Quiet Man. Photograph: iStock

Just beyond Oughterard is the Quiet Man bridge, the idea of which has raised collective eyebrows since the 1950s film starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara became part of the Irish-American cultural lexicon, but there’s no denying that it’s an absolutely gorgeous spot. In Cong, there’s the Quiet Man Museum (strictly for the hard-core fans) but far more interesting is the 3km forest loop walk that brings you to Leonard’s Tower, aka the Guinness Tower, on the grounds of Ashford Castle. Climb the 85 steps to the top for views and a decent leg workout. One final stop, on the eastern side of the lake, are at the ruins of Ross Errilly Friary, just beyond Glencorrib, the most complete Franciscan monastic ruins in the country. From here, it’s 27km back to Galway City along the N84.

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