Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Park
National parkAbout
Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument is a vast marine sanctuary located in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. It encompasses over 1,508,870 square kilometers, making it one of the largest marine protected areas globally. The monument is home to over 7,000 marine species, with about 25% being endemic to the Hawaiian Archipelago. It provides critical habitat for endangered species like the Hawaiian monk seal, green sea turtles, and Laysan ducks. The area includes extensive coral reefs, seamounts, and deep-water habitats, supporting a rich ecosystem with apex predators such as sharks and giant ulua. Papahānaumokuākea is also significant culturally, holding sacred sites for Native Hawaiians and historical resources from World War II. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, recognizing both its natural and cultural values. The monument's management involves strict conservation efforts to protect its unique biodiversity and cultural heritage.
