tumblr tracker
ALOHA! Subscribe today to receive free Oahu Updates!

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!

Waikiki Aquarium

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.

Sea Dragon Fish

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.

Waikiki Aquarium Exhibit

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.

Waikiki Aquarium Exhibit

A fun element of this century old aquarium are the different types of exhibits that have evolved over the years.

Waikiki Aquarium Exhibit

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.

Waikiki Aquarium Outdoor Exhibit

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!

Hawaiian Monk Seal

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!

Waikiki Aquarium Summer Concerts

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

Waikiki Aquarium 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

Waikiki Aquarium Fish

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

Waikiki-Trolley-Tours

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.

Purchase your pass now

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

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

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

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

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

Waikiki Strip

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!


Return to Honolulu Attractions

Return to Best of Oahu Home Page

Aloha & Enjoy!

Subscribe to receive Best of Oahu updates on events, updates, and new articles.  It's the closest way to paradise while you are away...

We will never sell or spam your information, and we'll respect your email privacy.