Howland is an equatorial island with scant rainfall, constant wind, and burning sun.
Low-lying, nearly level, sandy, coral island surrounded by a narrow fringing reef, with a depressed central area. It is almost totally covered with grasses, prostrate vines, and low-growing shrubs, with a small area of trees in the center. It is primarily a nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for seabirds, shorebirds, and marine wildlife.
Public entry is by special-use permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service only, and generally restricted to scientists and educators.
An airstrip was constructed in 1937 for Amelia Earhart to use as a refueling stop. It is no longer serviceable.
There is one small boat landing area along the middle of the west coast.
There is no economic activity on Howland Island.
'''Earhart Light''', near the middle of the west coat. The famed American aviator Amelia Earhart and her navigator Fred Noonan disappeared en route from Lae, Papua New Guinea to Howland Island, which was to be one of the last refueling stops on Earhart's round-the-world flight in 1937 (Hawaii and California were next on the itinerary). This "day beacon" (an unlit landmark built for navigation purposes) was named after her. It was partially destroyed during World War II, but has since been rebuilt.
There is no accommodation on Howland Island.
There are no natural sources of fresh water on Howland Island.