Rising above the remote shores of Midway Atoll, the Sand Island Aviation Light stands as a silent sentinel of Pacific aviation history. Originally constructed to guide aircraft across the vast ocean, this decommissioned tower served a critical role during Midway’s strategic military era.

Though no longer active, the lighthouse remains a striking landmark against the atoll’s flat terrain. The tower is not open to public climbing, and access to Midway Atoll itself requires special permits through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Photography is best during golden hour, when the tower silhouettes dramatically against Pacific sunsets. Nearby attractions include historic WWII sites, the remarkable albatross colonies, and pristine beaches teeming with endangered Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles.

Explore Nearby

• Winslow State Park — State Park in New Hampshire
• Willey House Historic Site sits within Crawford Notch State Park — State Park in New Hampshire
• White Mountain Trail — Scenic Byway in New Hampshire
• Kancamagus Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in New Hampshire
• Stoney Morrell Bridge — Covered Bridge in New Hampshire