Visit The Monument

Visiting Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge

Laysan Albatross are abundant at Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge. Credit: Kittipong

The Refuge and National Memorial serve as the "window" to Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, the only site within the Monument open to the public. All activities at Midway require a Monument Permit. Groups interested in conducting educational or recreational tours are welcome to apply for a permit. Numerous provisions of the permit ensure the protection of Midway's wildlife and historic resources while allowing visitors to learn about and experience this unique ecosystem.

There are several companies that have applied for permits for the 2012 visitor season. The following is a list of those companies, with links to their websites where you can find additional information regarding scheduled dates and costs:

Midway Visitor Services Plan

The Visitor Services Plan for Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, the Battle of Midway National Memorial, and the Midway Atoll Special Management Area is part of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument Management Plan and was approved on December 10, 2008.

The Visitor Services Plan authorizes small groups of visitors to learn about and experience Midway Atoll's unique ecosystems, including the largest albatross nesting colony in the world and beautiful coral reefs, as well as its remarkable historic resources. Wildlife observation; photography; environmental education; interpretation; participatory research; limited outdoor sports such as swimming, volleyball, bicycling, and jogging; and amateur radio use are authorized. The approved plan and associated compatibility determinations may be downloaded via the links below.

Visitor Program Market Analysis and Feasibility Study (pdf 1.87MB)
Visitor Services Plan (pdf 1.97MB)
Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge Appropriateness Findings and Compatibility Determinations (pdf 6.73MB)

Historical Walking Tour of Midway

Click Here for Sand Island Self-guided Historical Tour (you will be directed to a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website).