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Discover the Waikiki Aquarium
Waikiki Aquarium
is one of the popular things to do in Oahu amongst the many Honolulu
attractions for visitors in
Oahu. Located next to a living
coral reef, this award
winning aquarium in Waikiki will delight you with multi-colored
tropical fish,
monk seals, reef sharks, live corals, and much more!
Recognized as the 2nd
oldest aquarium in the United States,
the Waikiki Aquarium was first built in 1904. 2024 marks the
120th anniversary of the Honolulu Aquarium. It is
part of the
University of Hawaii today and has been designated as the Coastal
Ecosystem Learning Center for the Pacific Island Region of the Coastal
America Partnership.
The exhibits at this Honolulu aquarium consist of about 3500 marine
animals, and is visited by over 350,000
visitors per year.
All programs are focused on Hawaiian and tropical Pacific
aquatic life.
Make sure to check out the new Sea horse
exhibits.
There are 9
displays of these precious and rare syngnathid species, including the
popular sea dragons, pipefish, and other beautiful and colorful types
of exotic seahorses. A couple sea horse nursery tanks are currently on
display.
The Waikiki Aquarium
Jellyfish exhibits
are quiet peaceful and
mesmerizing. I could spend all day in front of their circular
roundabout filled with Moon Jellyfish. Lagoon Jellies are on
display as well.
Also new on display are the Green
Sea Turtle Exhibit,
and the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Exhibit. Don't miss one
of
the rarest fish in the ocean that happens to be on display, the Pepperment Angel Fish.
A fun element of this century old aquarium are the different
types of
exhibits that have evolved over the years.
Take time and explore all the exhibits. You might
even find a
scuba diver attending to the tanks from time to time.
The Outdoor Exhibits
Not many aquarium facilities around the world offer an outdoor
experience. Because of the tropical environment and available
land, the Waikiki Aquarium is able to feature a few exhibits, including a 7,500 gallon tide
pool, a
Hawaiian Monk
Seal Exhibit, a Giant Clam Exhibit, and an expansive grass
field
where events are held, including Hawaiian concerts during the summer
time.
Edge of the Reef
is a fun
hands-on experience at a large tide pool with many of the characteristics of a natural ocean tide pool. Here you'll find and interact with starfish,
sea
cucumbers, sea urchins and coral fish.
The Hawaiian Monk Seal Habitat is probably the most popular exhibit at the aquarium. And why not...they are so adorable and fun to watch!
Currently
there
are 2 housed rescue pups. The Hawaiian Monk Seals are an
endangered species, and protected not only by our state and government,
but by volunteer groups as well.
The Waikiki Aquarium is an inexpensive Honolulu attraction, which is a quick, fun experience for the whole family! It's easy to find, usually not crowded, and offers a nice break from the beach and other activities.
Summer Concert Series
Inquire about their summer music concert series,
known as "Ke
Kani O Ke Kai", where they feature popular local Hawaiian
bands. Enjoy
the performances in the backyard area where the bands typically play during the ay and into the
sunset. It's also a great way to experience an outdoor
concert
right next to the ocean!
Summer Music Concert Series
Special sunset concerts take place on the aquarium's great lawn area during the summer months. A schedule and lineup of Hawaiian music groups and artists for June, July and August is usually posted mid to late spring. Keep an eye out for the next music event schedule.
Gift Shop
The aquarium gift shop has lots of unique items for sale, including books, artwork, toys, and many things representing our Kai (ocean). Make sure to stop by and purchase a memento to take home or a gift for someone.
The proceeds help fund the costly maintenance of this fun Honolulu Attraction!
Visitor Information
Current Aquarium Schedule
Regular
Hours:
- Open 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., daily
- Close 5:00 p.m.
Holiday Hours:
Thanksgiving Day - 9:00 a.m.
to 2:30 p.m.
Close at 3:00 p.m.
New Year’s Day - 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Close at 5:00 p.m.
Scheduled Closures:
- Honolulu Marathon Day
- Christmas Day (December 25th)
Admission Fees
General Admission for Adults - $12
Kama’aina (with proof of residency),
Active Duty Military (with military ID) - $8
Seniors (65+ with ID),
Persons with a Disability - $5
Junior Admission (4-12 yrs old with an adult) - $5
Children 3 and Under (with an adult) - FREE
Getting There
Waikiki Trolley
The Waikiki Trolley visits many Honolulu Attractions including the Waikiki Aquarium. There are 4 different routes to explore including: Scenic Tour, Historic Tour, Shopping Tour, and the Island Tour. The Green Line will get you there. Tickets start around $9 for a child day pass, and go up to $25 - $49 for an Adult 7 day pass.
The aquarium is located at 2777 Kalakaua Avenue, along the shore in Kapiolani Park. It is an easy walk from Waikiki towards Diamond Head. Tel Number (808) 923-9741
For temporary and permanent exhibits, events, and educational classes, you may visit the Waikiki Aquarium Website for more information.
In the Waikiki Aquarium Area
Honolulu Zoo
Has the Waikiki Aquarium got you pumped up to see more animals? Walk across the street through Kapiolani Park, and you will discover the Honolulu Zoo.
This Waikiki Zoo Exhibit include a Tropical Forest, African Savanna, Bird Sanctuary, Pacific Islands Exhibit, and a Keiki (Kids) Zoo.
Diamond Head Trail
Look up when you're at the aquarium, and you'll see Diamond Head in
clear view ...including hikers who made their way up to the
top!
You could begin the hike up Diamond Head from the aquarium which will add a couple miles each way to your trek, or take a short drive or bus ride around the other side of the mountain, and start from inside the crater.
Diamond Head Beach Park
What's on the other side of Diamond Head? How about a
long, beautiful, local beach! Diamond Head Beach is one of Oahu's most affluent, oceanfront neighborhoods. Residents, surfers, and quiet sunbathers
looking to escape busy Waikiki find respite and an off the beaten path delight at this beach!
Give yourself some time to stroll Diamond Head Beach, gawk at the palatial beach
houses, and explore the many tide pools.
Hau Tree
This right-on-the-beach Waikiki Restaurant is
located in the New Otani Hotel at the base of Diamond Head, and next
door to the Waikiki Aquarium. They are open for breakfast and
dinner only, so take advantage of the opportunity if
you're around!
It's been recently renovated and the food and ambiance have been elevated and definitely worthy of a try!
Discovering Waikiki
Discover more of what Waikiki
has to offer in between 150 hotels, and
well over 1000 restaurants. There
are over 70,000 tourists that
visit this city daily to soak up all the fun, including
beautiful
beaches, famous spots, endless shopping and dining, and explosive nightlife!
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Aloha & Enjoy!
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