Where Marine Science Connects
The Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB) is a preeminent marine science institute located on Moku o Lo‘e (Coconut Island), surrounded by living coral reef. We leverage our unique Hawai‘i hub and year-round access to tropical ecosystems to transform local research into global ocean solutions. Across diverse labs, our ‘ohana (family) of over 200 faculty, staff, students, and volunteers studies diverse marine life and the vital connection from ridge to reef.
Our Island Lab
HIMB's tropical island setting and unique cultural history set it apart. The journey to Moku o Lo‘e is taken by shuttle boat, and once on the island, researchers are steps from the coral reefs, marine organisms, and ocean habitats they study.
Connect to UH & SOEST
Established in 1951, HIMB is an organized research unit within the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology at University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.
What Happens Here
Research Excellence
From marine microbes to megafauna, HIMB leads scientific exploration that advances fundamental research and addresses the urgent challenges impacting Hawai‘i, the Greater Pacific, and the world’s oceans. We transform local research into global solutions.
Transformative Education
Surrounded by a living coral reef that is teeming with marine life, HIMB offers a learning environment like no other. We directly engage students, educators, and community members with our research, sparking a passion for science and its many pathways. From grade school to graduate studies, HIMB inspires the next wave of ocean stewards.
Community Engagement
HIMB forges and fosters meaningful partnerships with coastal communities, and we draw from diverse bodies of knowledge to find lasting strategies for stewarding and sustaining our coastal resources. Our research extends from mauka (ridge) to makai (reef), and we are piloting programs to inspire other island communities to do the same.
Dive Into Our History
The Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB) is a world leader in tropical marine research and education, uniquely situated amid living coral reef on the culturally significant island of Moku o Lo‘e. Our history is a testament to the enduring relationship between people, place, and the ocean.
Ready to dive into our past? Experience the Moku o Loʻe StoryMap to uncover a timeline of culture, change, and discovery.
Support the next wave of marine science
Our research is advancing and evolving to meet the needs of our changing world. We invite you to join us in curiosity, discovery, learning, and stewardship.
