Baker Island (US) / Baker Island
Baker Island (US)
Explore the Untouched Wilderness of Baker Island
Baker Island is a tiny, uninhabited atoll in the central Pacific Ocean, situated just north of the equator and about halfway between Hawaii and Australia. This isolated coral island, part of the United States Minor Outlying Islands, is distinguished by its stark, windswept landscape, low-lying vegetation, and stunning coastal views bordered by white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Baker Island is unspoiled by urban development and is primarily known today as a National Wildlife Refuge, serving as a critical nesting ground for seabirds and turtles. The island's remoteness and lack of fresh water or infrastructure have preserved its natural environment, making it an important research site for biologists and conservationists. Its deserted airstrip, relics of World War II, and traces of 19th-century guano mining are silent witnesses to its brief episodes of human activity. For travelers, Baker Island represents one of the most inaccessible and pristine destinations on the planet.
Safety
Baker Island is uninhabited and landing is strictly controlled by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The biggest safety concerns are environmental hazards, such as sharp coral, intense sun, and lack of fresh water or shelter.
Visas
As a U.S. unincorporated territory, entry is subject to U.S. regulations. Special permits are required, and general tourism is not permitted.
Customs regulations
Respect for the environment is paramount; all visitors must adhere to Leave No Trace principles and wildlife protection guidelines. Removing artifacts or disturbing wildlife is strictly prohibited.
Prices
Travel to Baker Island is highly specialized and costly, typically arranged as part of scientific or official missions. There are no commercial services or tourism infrastructure, so standard travel costs do not apply.
People and nationalities
There is no permanent population on Baker Island. Visits are limited to scientific teams and occasional U.S. government personnel. The island’s history includes short-lived American settlements and a World War II military presence.
Weather
The climate is equatorial, hot, and sunny year-round, with minimal seasonal variation. Temperatures typically range from 29°C to 32°C (84–90°F), and there is little rainfall. The best (and only) time to visit is during permitted scientific expeditions, typically in the drier months from December to April.
Health
There are no medical facilities on the island. Emergency evacuation is the only option for serious health issues, so visitors must bring their own medical supplies and be self-sufficient.
Food
Self-Supplied Provisions
There are no food sources or culinary traditions on Baker Island; all visitors must bring their own packaged and non-perishable food supplies.
Desalinated Water
Due to the lack of freshwater sources, all drinking water must be brought in or generated via portable desalination units.
Transport
Private Charter Boat
Access to Baker Island is possible only by sea, with private or government-chartered vessels making the multi-day journey from Hawaii or other Pacific ports.
Helicopter (Occasional)
On rare occasions, helicopters may be used for official visits or emergency evacuation, though there are no regular services.
On Foot
Once on Baker Island, all movement is by foot across rough coral terrain, sandy beaches, and low vegetation.
Regions
Baker Island (US)
Unincorporated Territory
Howland Island (US)
Unincorporated Territory
Jarvis Island (US)
Unincorporated Territory
Johnston Atoll (US)
Unincorporated Territory
Kingman Reef (US)
Unincorporated Territory
Midway Islands (US)
Unincorporated Territory
Navassa Island (US)
Unincorporated Territory
Palmyra Atoll (US)
Unincorporated Territory
Wake Island (US)
Unincorporated Territory
What to visit?
History
Baker Island was claimed by the United States under the Guano Islands Act for its rich deposits of guano, which was mined until the late 19th century.
Guano mining operations were abandoned, leaving behind some ruins and relics.
The American Equatorial Islands Colonization Project established a small settlement called Meyerton to reinforce the U.S. claim to the island.
During World War II, the U.S. Army built a landing strip and briefly stationed military personnel on the island.
Military occupation ended, and Baker Island was left uninhabited once more.
Baker Island was designated as a National Wildlife Refuge to preserve its seabird and turtle populations.
The island became part of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument, further enhancing its protected status.
Activities
Wildlife Observation
Observe nesting seabirds and endangered sea turtles in their natural, undisturbed habitat.
Historical Exploration
Explore remnants of the abandoned airstrip, World War II structures, and guano mining relics scattered across the island.
Beachcombing
Wander along pristine sandy beaches, collecting shells and observing driftwood on untouched shores.
Scientific Research
Participate in biological or ecological research projects focused on the island’s unique flora, fauna, and marine life.