The Honolulu Zoo is a treasure trove of adorable animals, attracting about 750,000 visitors annually.
Spanning a vast 42.5 acres, the zoo is home to around 900 species of animals, including endangered ones, all living in a relaxed environment!
What began in 1914 as an animal collection project “for the children of Hawaii” started with only a monkey, a bear, and an African elephant. Today, it has grown into a truly bustling zoo.
As the only zoo in Hawaii, it’s a fantastic choice for families on vacation.
It’s conveniently located within walking distance from Waikiki, so feel free to drop by for a casual visit.
Top 5 Popular Animals at the Honolulu Zoo
While the Honolulu Zoo has a wide variety of animals, here are the top 5 must-see residents.
Be sure to look for these animals during your visit.
Flamingos
When you visit the Honolulu Zoo, the first animals you’ll see near the entrance are the flamingos.
Their vibrant pink color and their habit of standing on one leg are sure to catch your eye!
It looks like they could fly away over the simple fence, but they seem content to stay.
Even in Hawaii, known for its rich birdlife, the Honolulu Zoo is the only place you can see flamingos, so be sure to check them out.
Giraffes
The African Savanna area, where the giraffes live, is by far the most popular section of the zoo!
Designed to resemble a savanna, this area provides a near-natural habitat for animals like zebras, elephants, lions, and cheetahs.
Among them, the giraffes stand out as what you might call a classic zoo favorite.
The enclosures are designed for close viewing, so you’ll surely be impressed by the sheer size and presence of the giant giraffes right before your eyes.
Galapagos Tortoises
The Galapagos tortoises at the zoo enjoy a relaxed life in a spacious enclosure.
They are the largest land tortoises on Earth, weighing up to 300 kg (about 660 lbs).
A few were brought to the zoo in 1928, and incredibly, some of those same tortoises are still alive today!
Although they are listed as an endangered species, the zoo has successfully bred them, and many of their offspring have been moved to the mainland U.S.
Perhaps Hawaii’s laid-back environment is one of the secrets to their long lives.
Komodo Dragon
Known for its fearsome reputation, the Komodo dragon can grow up to 3 meters (about 10 feet) long and weigh 100 kg (about 220 lbs)!
This carnivorous reptile has sharp teeth and is actually venomous, making it the world’s largest lizard.
In fact, they are incredibly ferocious creatures, capable of taking down prey larger than themselves, like buffalo.
They are one of the top-ranked animals to see when visiting Hawaii.
Nene
The Nene is Hawaii’s endemic state bird.
Nene is actually its common name in Hawaiian; its official name is the Hawaiian Goose.
They were once on the brink of extinction, but conservation efforts have helped their population increase to around 3,000.
While still classified as a threatened species, their numbers are gradually recovering.
The Keiki Zoo at Honolulu Zoo
Within the Honolulu Zoo, the “Keiki Zoo” is highly recommended for families with small children.
Keiki means ‘child’ in Hawaiian, and this area is specially designed for young children to enjoy.
It’s packed with fun features, including a petting zoo with small animals like goats, sheep, and piglets, as well as a kids’ playground and interactive panel quizzes.
With ample lawns and play areas, families can have a great time without having to walk around the entire vast zoo grounds.
It’s an especially recommended spot for those with elementary school-aged children or younger—a truly satisfying place for both play and learning.
Kapahulu Market at the Honolulu Zoo
If you get a little hungry inside the zoo, you can easily enjoy snacks and lunch.
They offer plenty of kid-friendly menu items like hamburgers, french fries, and pizza.
Being a tourist attraction, the prices are a bit high, but the food is reputed to be quite good.
However, you’re also allowed to bring your own food, and many visitors seem to enjoy having a picnic on the zoo’s lawns.
It might be a wonderful way to enjoy a relaxing day in Hawaii.
The Honolulu Zoo Gift Shop
Right near the entrance and exit of the Honolulu Zoo, there is a large gift shop.
It sells a variety of items, including stuffed animals and local crafts.
Stroller and wheelchair rentals are also handled at the gift shop.
While there might not be many items that appeal to adults, there are plenty of treasures that are sure to capture a child’s heart.
Honolulu Zoo General Information
| Name | The Honolulu Zoo |
| Address | 151 Kapahulu Ave. Honolulu, HI 96815 |
| Map | |
| Hours | Daily 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Last exit at 4:00 PM) |
| Admission | Adults: $21 Children (3-12): $13 Toddlers (2 and under): Free |
| Closed | Christmas Day |
| Recommended Visit Time | Approx. 1-2 hours |
| Restrooms | Available |
| Parking | Available (Paid) |
| Website | Official Website |
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