PapahĀNaumokuĀKea Marine National Monument
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Hawaii.
Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument is the single largest conservation area under the U.S. flag, and one of the largest marine conservation areas in the world. Extensive coral reefs can be found below the water surface, housing over 7,000 marine species. Many of the islands and shallow water environments are vital habitats for species such as the threatened green turtle and the endangered Hawaiian monk seal. Land areas also provide a home for unique bird species, including the world's most endangered duck, the Laysan duck. In addition to the importance to marine wildlife, this sanctuary has significant cultural importance to Native Hawaiians. Visitors can enjoy this cultural and marine conservation site with activities such as snorkeling, diving, and interactive educational exhibits in the visitor center. To learn more about this sanctuary, visitors should stop by the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center.
Nearby Activities
- Diving
- Historic & Cultural Site
- Interpretive Programs
- Photography
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Visitor Center
- Wildlife Viewing
Directions
The monument begins approximately 140 miles northwest of the main Hawaiian Islands, and continues northwest for more than 1,200 miles. The outer boundaries of the monument include marine waters in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands extending out approximately 50 miles on both sides of the chain of islands.
Additional Information
- Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument
- Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument Facebook page
- Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument Map
