The Honolulu Museum of Art is often acclaimed as one of the most beautiful art museums in the United States.
As Hawaii’s premier art museum, it houses a collection of approximately 50,000 works, including world-renowned masterpieces like Monet’s Water Lilies and Picasso’s cubist pieces.
It began when art collector Anna Rice Cooke opened her private collection to the public, and today it is a highly valued site designated as a Hawaii State Historic Place.
The museum features several courtyards inspired by different parts of the world, creating an exotic atmosphere that makes you feel as if you’ve been transported far from Hawaii.
While enjoying Hawaii’s beaches and shopping is great, visiting places where you can learn about the local culture and history is another wonderful way to enjoy your trip!
It might not be on everyone’s must-see list, but it’s truly a spot that exceeds expectations, and we highly recommend it!
Honolulu Museum of Art: Hours and Events
Please note that the Honolulu Museum of Art is closed every Monday and Tuesday!
The museum also opens a bit later in the morning at 10:00 AM, so there’s no need to arrive too early.
The most popular event is on the third Sunday of every month, when admission is free for Hawaii residents.
This day features activities for both adults and children, such as crafts, drawing contests, and museum scavenger hunts, attracting large crowds. If you’re visiting as a tourist, you might want to avoid this day.
By the way, admission is free for all visitors under 17, so it’s a great place for families to visit!
Honolulu Museum of Art Café
When you visit the Honolulu Museum of Art, a must-see spot is the Honolulu Museum of Art Café.
It’s a popular spot even with locals, offering a menu featuring salads and sandwiches made with organic Hawaiian vegetables.
We recommend the “Piadina,” a sandwich made with fresh vegetables, cheese, and prosciutto wrapped in an Italian flatbread.
Another popular dish is the “Salade Niçoise,” which features impressive seared ahi tuna!
Please note that the café is only open for lunch from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Wednesday through Sunday.
The gift shop sells original Honolulu Museum of Art merchandise as well as Hawaiian crafts, making it a great place to find souvenirs.
Admission is not required if you are only visiting the café and gift shop, so feel free to stop by just for a meal or some shopping!
The Honolulu Museum of Art’s Shangri La Tour
The Honolulu Museum of Art also offers a special, lesser-known tour.
It’s a chance to experience Shangri La, one of the largest private homes in Hawaii.
This dream-like mansion is filled with Islamic art from around the world and is sure to amaze anyone who visits!
By the owner’s wishes, the building is now under the jurisdiction of the Honolulu Museum of Art, which means it can only be visited through the Shangri La tour organized by the museum.
The Japanese-language tour departs from the Honolulu Museum of Art at noon, so we recommend exploring the museum in the morning and then heading straight to Shangri La.
By the way, we have a separate article about Shangri La, so please check it out if you’re interested.
Basic Information about the Honolulu Museum of Art
| Name | Honolulu Museum of Art |
| Address | 900 S Beretania St., Honolulu, HI 96814 |
| Map | |
| Hours | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun) 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Fri) |
| Admission | Adults (18+): $25 Ages 17 and under: Free |
| Closed | Mondays, Tuesdays |
| Estimated Time | About 1 hour or more |
| Restrooms | Available |
| Parking | Available (paid) |
| Website | Official Website |
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