Palmyra

Palmyra Atoll, a modest uninhabited coral atoll near the center of the Pacific Ocean, is part of the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument and hosts over 150 coral species — double the number recorded in Hawaii. A U.S. territory administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service, it receives a small rotating population of researchers and scientists rather than conventional tourists. The atoll's three lagoons, extensive reef, and World War II-era airstrip are accessible only by boat or private arrangement.

• Nearest water from center0.7 km