Niihau, the seventh smallest of the eight populated Hawaiian Islands is generally off limits for casual visitors except by arranged tour. The island has been privately owned by the Sinclair-Robinson family since 1864 and is home to about 200 residents. The inhabitants lack many modern amenities, like electricity, but have made a commitment to preserving the Hawaiian culture. Hawaiian is still used as their primary language. Niihau lacks the tropical vegetation common on the other Hawaiian Islands but is noted for a wealth of tiny Momi Shells which are strung into leis. - AsNotedIn