Access Restrictions
The island is a strict nature reserve and generally closed to the public; access is typically limited to scientists and conservationists with permits.
U.S. Outlying Islands
Nature Reserve·Remote, Wild, Untouched
Howland Island is an elongated coral atoll located in the central Pacific, roughly halfway between Hawaii and Australia. As a strict nature reserve managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, it provides a vital sanctuary for diverse species including frigatebirds, boobies, and green turtles. The island is most famously recognized as the destination Amelia Earhart was searching for during her ill-fated 1937 world flight attempt. While it remains uninhabited with no economic activity, visitors can find historical remnants such as the Earhart Light stone tower and ruins from a 1930s colonization project.
Howland Island is an elongated coral atoll located in the central Pacific, roughly halfway between Hawaii and Australia. As a strict nature reserve managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, it provides a vital sanctuary for diverse species including frigatebirds, boobies, and green turtles. The island is most famously recognized as the destination Amelia Earhart was searching for during her ill-fated 1937 world flight attempt. While it remains uninhabited with no economic activity, visitors can find historical remnants such as the Earhart Light stone tower and ruins from a 1930s colonization project.
You might want to ask
Highlights
Earhart Light stone tower memorial.
Nesting grounds for frigatebirds and boobies.
Pristine coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
Historical remains of the 1930s colony.
Before you go: Howland Island essentials
No permanent inhabitants or modern infrastructure.
Extremely remote location with no harbors or docks.
Protected status as part of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument.
Historical Context
Research the 1930s American Equatorial Islands Colonization Project to understand the ruins found on the island.
Best For
History buffs and wildlife conservation researchers.
Currency
USD $
Languages Spoken
English
Wildlife Observation
The island is a major nesting site for seabirds like boobies and frigatebirds, making it a critical conservation area.
Best time to visit Howland Island
Year-round for conservation (restricted)
Spring
Access is restricted year-round; conservation visits are scheduled by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Summer
The island is equatorial and hot; visits are rare and strictly for research purposes.
Fall
Weather remains tropical; no commercial travel is available to this remote atoll.
Winter
The island remains a quiet sanctuary for migratory birds and marine life.
Location
Howland Island, U.S. Outlying Islands