Overview

Midway Islands are a group of little islands located in the Pacific Ocean. It is an unorganized and unincorporated territory of the United States. The region comprising Midway Islands consists of a circular barrier reef and two main landmasses covering a total area of about 1,500 acres. The area is inhabited by about 60 non-locals.

The Midway Islands were discovered in 1859 by Captain N.C. Middlebrooks, and they were formally claimed by Captain William Reynolds of the USS Lackawanna in 1862. During the World War II, the location of the Midway Island in the Pacific became significant to the military. It was also an important halt for the Navy ships. On June 4, 1942, the naval battle of Midway occurred, where the US defeated the Japanese naval fleet. By 1988, the naval base at Midway was decommissioned and on April 22, Midway was classified as a National Wild Life Refuge.

Activities & Attractions

The two main attractions of the Midway Islands are the decommissioned naval bases, which are placed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the surrounding barrier reef. Wildlife on the island includes the Laysan Rail and Laysan Finch that constitute almost 73 percent of the world's Laysan Albatross population. The island is also home to nearly five million birds belonging to 17 different species. The lagoon, Hawaiian monk seals, spinner dolphins, and green sea turtles are also found on the island. There are some strict rules to be followed by the visitors to protect the wildlife on the island and prevent the introduction of new species.

Snorkeling, scuba diving, and other nature viewing activities are available to the visitors on the island. The Midway Islands contain a number of memorials and artifacts belonging to the 1942 Battle of Midway. Another historical site that is worth visiting is the original Cable Building, which was erected in 1903. The White Coral Beach is another fascinating attraction, where the water is clear and the sand is fine white coral.

Lodging

The Midway Islands make up a wildlife refuge and a historical site. As a result, there is no lodging available on the island for the visitors. There are about 60 residents on the Midway Islands and most of them reside in the Clipper House. It also serves as their main galley where most of the meals on the island are served, not only for residents, but also for the visitors.

Transportation

Transportation on the island is possible by bicycle and golf cart rental service providers. In order to visit the island, visitors need to apply for a permit from the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument well before the intended visit. The non-profit Oceanic Society offers tours of the islands. Other means include cruise ships. The usual route of reaching Sand Island, which is the only populated island of Midway, is via Henderson Field Airport.