There is no visitor center at Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument itself, but the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center in Hilo, Hawaii, serves as its interpretive center and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM.
There is no entrance fee for Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, as general public visitation is currently not allowed.
From Honolulu, take H-1 Highway to the coast, then board a charter flight or research vessel to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, a journey to one of the world’s most remote and pristine marine ecosystems.
There are no parking options or parking lots at Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, as it is a remote, largely uninhabited area off-limits to most visitors.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
In the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, northwest of the Hawaiian archipelago, lies the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, a realm of unparalleled natural and cultural significance. This expansive marine sanctuary, spanning 583,000 square miles, is the largest fully protected conservation area under the U.S. flag and one of the world’s most substantial protected areas.
Here, the ocean’s depths are home to an extraordinary array of marine life, including the highly endangered Hawaiian monk seal and threatened green turtles. The waters are dotted with ten islands and atolls, each holding ancient secrets and archaeological remains that speak to the pre-European settlement of the region. Nihoa and Mokumanamana islands are particularly notable for their historical sites, embodying the deep cosmological and traditional significance of this area for Native Hawaiian culture.
The landscape is a tapestry of pelagic and deepwater habitats, with seamounts, submerged banks, extensive coral reefs, and tranquil lagoons. This ecosystem, teeming with life, is a testament to the monument’s importance in maintaining the biological diversity of the ocean.
While physical visits to the monument are limited due to its protected status, researchers, conservationists, and select visitors can experience the area’s majestic beauty through carefully managed expeditions. The recent designation of Papahānaumokuākea as a National Marine Sanctuary in 2025 further underscores its importance, offering opportunities for community engagement, education, and research.
For those drawn to this unique and sacred place, the experience is akin to stepping into a living, breathing sanctuary where the boundaries between nature and culture blur. It is a place where life originates and where spirits return, a true embodiment of the Hawaiian concept of kinship between people and the natural world. Though it may not be a traditional travel destination, Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Pacific, an odyssey that promises to leave an indelible mark on all who have the privilege to experience it.
- Area (mi²)
- 582578
- Established year
- 2006
Top 3 Facts about Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument
This monument is home to the world’s deepest and northernmost coral reefs, and it encompasses extensive pelagic and deepwater habitats, including seamounts and submerged banks, providing a refuge for hundreds of endangered and endemic species.
In this vast marine sanctuary, coral reefs teem with sharks, ulua, and endangered sea turtles like the hawksbill and green sea turtle. The waters are home to Hawaiian monk seals and over 14 million seabirds, including Laysan and black-footed albatross. On land, rare species like the Laysan duck and Nihoa finch thrive, while ancient Hawaiian gold corals and unique benthic flora like cyanobacteria and macroalgae flourish in the deep, dark habitats. This ecosystem, where 25% of species are found nowhere else, is a testament to natural and cultural richness.
In the vast expanse of the Pacific, a realm of untouched beauty awaits. Here, 3.5 million acres of vibrant coral reefs, teeming with sharks and large fish, thrive in waters that stretch over 3,000 feet deep. The landscape is punctuated by seamounts and submerged banks, while the surface is dotted with low-lying islands and atolls, home to millions of seabirds and ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites. The waters are a dazzling array of blues, from the pale turquoise of the coral lagoons to the deep indigo of the abyssal depths. This is a world where apex predators dominate, and ecosystems remain virtually intact, offering an unparalleled dive into the heart of the ocean’s grandeur.
Family programs
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Self-guided Tours
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
- Virtual Junior Activities.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a week-long trip during the calm summer months to fully explore this vast marine monument. Attend the annual Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count in February. Fly to Honolulu, then take a charter boat. Pack meals and stay hydrated, as amenities are limited. Anticipate rugged, rocky terrain and plan for regular rests.[@National Geographic Magazine]
Pack Appropriately
Pack lightweight, quick-drying clothing, waterproof gear, and a dry bag for water activities. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses. Include a power bank, first aid kit, and a collapsible tote for essentials. Check the weather for potential rain gear.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain 100 yards from monk seal mom-pup pairs and humpback whales, 50 yards from other marine mammals. Observe turtles from a distance, use binoculars, and avoid feeding or harassing wildlife. Operate boats at slow speeds and emit noise to avoid surprising animals. Respect seasonal breeding grounds.
Stay Informed
Keep a safe 50 yards from marine mammals, use binoculars for close views. Monitor weather and tide conditions, and contact park authorities at 808-397-2651 for emergencies.
Seasons
In spring, temperatures range from 70-85°F, with mild weather ideal for exploring. Join the Ala ʻAumoana Kai Uli expedition in April-May to discover deep-sea habitats and interactive live streams, a unique spring experience.
Explore pristine ecosystems in summer’s mild 70-85°F temperatures. Witness sea turtle nesting from June to October. Limited access, but unparalleled cultural and scientific experiences. Ideal for adventurous travelers seeking untouched nature.
Experience the fall in a tropical paradise with temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. Witness the Ocean Exploration Trust’s annual expedition, exploring marine ecosystems from September to November. Ideal weather and fewer tourists make autumn an optimal time to visit, though general public access is currently limited.
Visit from November to April when sea temperatures range from 64°F to 82°F. Cooler winters bring unique marine life and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for an exclusive, immersive experience amidst dramatic seasonal changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument is Honolulu, which is located on the island of Oahu in the main Hawaiian Archipelago. This city is roughly 1,000 miles southeast of the monument.
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Pets are not permitted inside the monument to protect the unique and sensitive ecosystem. This regulation helps prevent the introduction of invasive species and maintains the conservation goals of the area.
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You cannot visit without a permit, as all activities within the area are either prohibited, exempted, or regulated and most require a permit. You must meet specific criteria and follow best management practices to be allowed entry. Permitted personnel must also attend a pre-access briefing before entering.
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Visiting for general tourism is not allowed. The area is strictly protected for conservation and is off-limits to most visitors, with access only permitted for specific purposes like research, cultural practices, or law enforcement, and these require special permits.