The only place in Hawaii where traditional Polynesian life remains strong is on the private island of Niihau off the west coast of Kauai. Here, the 300 inhabitants speak native Hawaiian, grow native foot crops, make domestic tools from plants and steer clear of modern consumables. To visit, one must either have a private invitation or take a brief helicopter tour from Kauai.

Other places where traditional life remain strong are between Waipio Valley and Hilo along the north and east coasts of the Big Island and on the north coast of Kauai where large taro plantations can be seen in the valleys around Hanalei.

kamokila village

taro plantation

kilauea church

waipio valley

On Kauai, a reconstructed traditional Polyneisan village has been developed on an old village site by the traditional landowners at Kamokila on the banks of the Wailua River. Here you can walk around the ancient village site to see thatch houses, a temple and petroglyphs with guided interpretations. A more commercial village style set up has been created at Waimea Falls Park on the north shore of Oahu, just a few miles north of the large Polynesian Culture Centre at Laie, another tourist development showcasing traditional dance and culture for the mass market.

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