Lisianski Island
Island Remote Hawaiian atoll and protected wildlife refuge
Part of the Northwestern Hawaiian chain, Lisianski Island is a remote coral islet in the Papahānaumokuākea marine reserve; access is by special permit or expedition, sought for seabirds and snorkeling.
Lisianski Island is a small, uninhabited island in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, administered as part of the State of Hawaii. It is largely a coral and sand island with low dunes and sparse vegetation and is notable for its wildlife and reef systems.
The island and surrounding waters form part of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, a U.S. protected area that conserves breeding seabird colonies, marine habitats and endangered species. There are no permanent residents and access is regulated to protect sensitive habitats.
Lisianski lies northwest of the main Hawaiian Islands, within the chain of atolls and reefs that extend across the north central Pacific. The nearest significant human settlements are many hundreds of kilometres to the southeast on the main Hawaiian Islands, and visits are normally by research, conservation or regulated expedition vessels.
- Protected status: Part of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and included within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument for conservation of marine and bird life.
- Ecology: Uninhabited and composed mainly of sand, coral and low vegetation, the island is important as habitat for seabirds, turtles and marine species.
How to Get to Lisianski Island #
There are no commercial transport links. Access is by special-permit vessels organized through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for research or sanctioned expeditions. The island is remote-expect multi-day sea transits from Honolulu and strict biosecurity and permitting requirements.
Tips for Visiting Lisianski Island #
- Lisianski Island is part of a wildlife refuge-access is strictly regulated; any visit requires federal permits from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
- If a permitted trip is arranged, be prepared for a primitive experience-no services, no facilities, and strong seabird colonies.
- Bring seabird guides and a good telephoto lens; the island is important for nesting seabirds and marine life.
Best Time to Visit Lisianski Island #
Best attempted May-October when Pacific conditions tend to be calmer; access always subject to federal permitting and weather.
Weather & Climate near Lisianski Island #
Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and warm winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 18°C to 29°C. Abundant rainfall (1203 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 18°C. Significant rainfall (164 mm) and breezy conditions.
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February
February is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 18°C. Regular rainfall (99 mm) and breezy conditions.
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March
March is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 19°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 20°C. Moderate rainfall (55 mm).
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May
May is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 21°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm).
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June
June is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 23°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm).
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July
July is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 24°C. Moderate rainfall (78 mm).
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 25°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm).
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September
September is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 24°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm).
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October
October is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 23°C. Significant rainfall (114 mm).
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November
November is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (112 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 20°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (182 mm).
