Chapter 3- Settlement and Population

There are no known written records of the first settlers to Kauai, although its is believed that the first inhabitants of Hawaii may have reached the islands as early as 400 AD from the Marquesa Islands. Contact with and settlement by Tahitians began about 1000 AD.  The early Hawaiians lacked a written language so their culture was entirely oral.  Hawaiian culture had rich roots in myth, legend, and practical knowledge, especially of animals and plant life.

The material life of the island was hindered by the lack of metal, pottery, or beasts of burden, but there was great expertise in the use of wood, shell, stone, and bone, and the huge double and outrigger canoes were technical sensations.  Navigational methods were well developed, and there was an intricately developed calendar.

Captain James Cook

In 1778, British explorer Captain James Cook landed in Kauai’s Waimea Bay for the first time. Cook’s discovery of what he called the “Sandwich Isles,” named after the Earl of Sandwich, introduced Hawaii to the world. A statue of Captain Cook stands today in Waimea Town.

During this era of western discovery, King Kamehameha I tried one's hand to unite the Hawaiian Islands under his rule. Kauai and the small neighboring island of Niihau (part of Kauai county) were the only islands to prevent his efforts. Eventually, Kauai’s King Kaumualii decided to peacefully unite with Kamehameha and join the rest of the Kingdom of Hawaii.

Today, the population of Kauai is over 67,000 people.  The population density is about 94 people per square mile.  It is the least populous of the major islands of Hawaii.  The biggest towns in Kauai include Kapaa, Lihue, Wailua, and Wailmea.  Kapaa is a town known for its shopping, eateries and available water activities.  It appeals to tourists because of the variety of attractions.  Lihue is the center for business and transportation, but still home to beautiful beaches including Kalapaki Beach.  

Kalapaki Beach