The Waikiki Aquarium is the only aquarium in Hawaii where you can observe a variety of marine life.
Opened in 1904, it is also the second-oldest public aquarium in the history of the United States!
You can see endemic Hawaiian species, rare coral reefs, and over 400 types of fish that inhabit the South Pacific. It is particularly popular with families with children as a place where you can learn about marine life while having fun.
Incidentally, free audio guides are available to use, so you can enjoy a deeper educational experience during your visit.
It is one of the most useful sightseeing spots on rainy days, so please check it out as one of your options.
Top 3 Popular Areas at Waikiki Aquarium
Hawaii has undergone its own unique evolution, meaning there are many endemic species that cannot be seen anywhere else.
We have picked out the areas you definitely want to see when you visit, so please use this as a reference.
Area That Perfectly Recreates the Hawaiian Ocean
The world of the Hawaiian ocean actually seen by divers is recreated inside the tanks.
It feels like the seas of various parts of Hawaii, such as off the coast of Koko Head and Kaneohe Bay, are compacted together!
You can feel as if you are swimming in the sea, seeing not just fish and coral reefs but also the underwater topography.
Since opportunities to dive in the Hawaiian ocean can be rare, this is very informative.
Area Where Hawaiian Endemic Species Are Exhibited
The area where you can see endemic species such as the Hawaii state fish Humuhumunukunukuapuaa and the giant Ulua fish is the biggest highlight of the Waikiki Aquarium!
They also have an activity where you can receive a sticker if you find all the rare fish, so children search for the fish very seriously. Haha.
It is also a great place for social studies where you can gain living knowledge.
Actually, 30% of the creatures on display are endemic to Hawaii, so it may be full of creatures you have never seen before.
Hawaiian Monk Seal Area (Exhibit Currently Suspended)
The Hawaiian Monk Seal is a seal with only about 400 individuals living around the Hawaiian Islands.
Even with ongoing conservation efforts, there are only about 1,600 in the world, and they are said to be the most endangered seal in the world.
You can sometimes see them on the beaches of Oahu, but they are actually very precious creatures!
As they are a symbol of Hawaii, you can also meet them at the Waikiki Aquarium.
They are the most popular stars at the Waikiki Aquarium, so please go and meet them.
Top 3 Recommended Creatures at Waikiki Aquarium
We will introduce popular and rare creatures you should see when visiting the Waikiki Aquarium.
There are many rare species that you do not often get to see, so please try to find them!
Seahorses & Seadragons
Known as charming fish, seahorses are popular in Hawaii too!
It is quite rare to encounter them in the ocean, so you definitely want to observe them closely at the aquarium.
Because they resemble dragons, they have been widely loved as lucky creatures since ancient times.
Clownfish
Clownfish became famous instantly thanks to the movie Finding Nemo.
They actually inhabit the waters near Hawaii and show off their charming, cute appearance!
Since they live in symbiosis with sea anemones and do not move around much, you can observe them closely.
Jellyfish
The jellyfish tanks are actually very popular at the Waikiki Aquarium.
Several types of jellyfish, centering on the classic moon jellyfish, swim elegantly in large tanks!
Baby shrimp are given as food three times a day, so you can also observe the jellyfish feeding time.
Basic Information for Waikiki Aquarium
| Name | Waikiki Aquarium |
| Address | 2777 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 |
| Map | |
| Hours | 9:00 – 16:30 |
| Admission | Adult (13–64): $12 Senior (65+): $5 Child (4–12): $5 Infant (3 and under): Free |
| Holidays | Honolulu Marathon Day (2nd Sunday in December) Christmas (December 25) |
| Duration | 1–2 hours |
| Restrooms | Available |
| Parking | Available (Free for up to 2 hours) |
Recommended Transportation to Waikiki Aquarium
Biki (BIKI) – Share Bikes for Easy Travel in the Honolulu Area
Waikiki Trolley – Large Buses Specialized for Sightseeing at Standard Spots
Surrounding Areas of Waikiki Aquarium
[Complete Guide] Recommended Popular Sightseeing Spots in Hawaii Oahu Waikiki & Ala Moana Area