Who owns the island of Ni'ihau?

Ni'ihau is unique among the Hawaiian islands in that it is privately owned. The island has been in the possession of the Robinson family since 1864, and they are descendants of native Hawaiians. The ownership of Ni'ihau has remained in the family, which has cultivated a lifestyle that emphasizes traditional Hawaiian culture, language, and practices. This exclusivity has resulted in very limited public access, making it quite different from the other Hawaiian islands. Visitors are largely restricted to special tours or invitations by the owners, maintaining the island's preservation and private character.

The other options mention state or corporate ownership or public accessibility, which are not accurate representations of Ni'ihau’s status. The island remains a special place that exemplifies the cultural richness of native Hawaiian communities, thus reinforcing its unique claim to private ownership.