Waikīkī Aquarium
Waikīkī, Honolulu
A Small University-Run Aquarium Beside Kapiʻolani Park
The Waikīkī Aquarium, at 2777 Kalākaua Avenue next to Kapiʻolani Park, is run with the University of Hawaiʻi and describes itself as Hawaiʻi's window to the sea. Its exhibits focus on Hawaiian and Pacific reef life, including a living reef, and a mobile audio guide comes with admission. Hours are 9 AM to 4:30 PM daily (the facility closes at 5), with special hours on Thanksgiving and New Year's Day and closures on Honolulu Marathon Day (December 13, 2026) and Christmas.
Admission is $12 for adults, $5 for children 4–12, seniors 65+ and people with disabilities, and free for children 3 and under; Hawaiʻi residents, students and military pay $8 with ID. Visitors under 18 must be with an adult. The aquarium's own site carries a notice that it is open while undergoing renovations, so some exhibits may be affected.
Why Roamwise recommends this
A cheap, air-conditioned stop in Waikīkī that works on a hot or rainy day and suits kids.
Best for: families, a one-hour indoor break, learning about Hawaiian reef life before snorkeling.
Insider tip: pair it with Kapiʻolani Park and the Honolulu Zoo across the way, and check the site for renovation notices first.
- Safety notes:
- The aquarium's site says it is open while undergoing renovations — confirm which exhibits are open.
- Price tier:
- $
- Cost:
- $12 adults; kids 4–12, seniors and people with disabilities $5; Hawaiʻi ID holders $8. (checked October 2026)
Reviews: Google MapsYelp
Local tips
- •Adults $12
- •kids 4–12 $5
- •Hawaiʻi ID holders $8.
- •Open 9 AM–4:30 PM daily
- •closed Dec 13 and Dec 25, 2026.
- •A mobile audio guide is included with admission.
- •The site says the aquarium is open during renovations
- •some exhibits may be limited.
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