Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge

Sailing and Boating 

With prior approval, privately owned vessels are permitted access to the atoll for up to seven days to see and enjoy the natural resources of the refuge. A maximum of two vessels are allowed at one time and no more than six vessels may visit in a single month. As no dumping of any kind is allowed within the refuge, private vessels must have sufficient holding tanks for all black and gray water to accommodate their needs throughout the entire length of stay. Vessels are required to provide documentation of a hull bottom inspection and cleaning showing the absence of any marine organisms that is dated within two weeks of their departure for the refuge. Additional documentation of an inspection citing no signs of a rodent presence detected must be completed within 48 hours of departure for the atoll.  The refuge is only open for visitation when an USFWS manager is present. Contact the refuge manager to discuss times the refuge will be open to visitors. No pets (e.g. dogs and cats) are allowed on the refuge even if they remain aboard the vessel.

Wildlife Viewing 

There are excellent snorkeling and bird watching opportunities within the atoll. For those bringing their own equipment, SCUBA diving may also be permitted under certain conditions. Additionally, paddle boarding and kayaking are also excellent ways to view wildlife within the lagoon. 

Photography 

Perhaps the fastest growing activity on national wildlife refuges has been wildlife photography. That’s not surprising – the digital camera population explosion and cell phones with ever-improving picture-taking abilities are increasing the number of nature photographers at a rapid rate. You don’t need to purchase expensive equipment or have any experience to get started. A small camera or basic cell phone will do just fine for most visitors. 

Nearly 12 million people visit outdoor areas each year to photograph wildlife, and national wildlife refuges naturally are at the top of the list. Wildlife photography is a high-priority activity in the refuge system. We welcome all levels of photographers to record their outdoor adventures while at Palmyra.   

Fishing 

Due to the sensitive nature of Palmyra's ecosystem and the high abundance of apex predators, recreational fishing opportunities are very limited. Permits for catch and release bone-fishing will only be issued to groups who are led by a resource monitor already familiar with the atoll's environment and refuge regulations who is approved by the refuge manager.