Honolulu Zoo
Discover over 900 animals across 42 lush acres at the Honolulu Zoo, a vibrant oasis in Waikiki perfect for families and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & fewer crowds
Honolulu Zoo
Best Time
Cooler temps & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover over 900 animals across 42 lush acres at the Honolulu Zoo, a vibrant oasis in Waikiki perfect for families and nature lovers.
"This wasn't the same zoo from my childhood, place was fantastic. Lots of animals!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim to arrive 15-30 mins before opening for the best chance at parking in the main lot.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Bring your own food and drinks to save money and enjoy a meal with a view.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
African Savanna
African Savanna
Encounter majestic giraffes, rhinos, and zebras in a spacious, naturalistic habitat.
Primate Island
Primate Island
Watch playful monkeys and gibbons swing through trees, a favorite for many visitors.
Reptile and Bird Exhibits
Reptile House & Aviary
Marvel at diverse reptiles and impressive, sometimes human-sized, exotic birds.
Orangutan Encounter
Orangutan Enclosure
See Rusty, a long-time resident orangutan, and other fascinating primates.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Picnic Power-Up
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim to arrive 15-30 mins before opening for the best chance at parking in the main lot. +1
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Bring your own food and drinks to save money and enjoy a meal with a view.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring refillable water bottles; there are fountains available. Sunscreen and hats are a must!
🚶♀️ Stroller Friendly
The zoo is great for strolling with babies and toddlers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim to arrive 15-30 mins before opening for the best chance at parking in the main lot. +1
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Bring your own food and drinks to save money and enjoy a meal with a view.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring refillable water bottles; there are fountains available. Sunscreen and hats are a must!
🚶♀️ Stroller Friendly
The zoo is great for strolling with babies and toddlers.
🌙 Twilight Tours
Experience the zoo after dark with a guided tour to see nocturnal animals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Honolulu Zoo for its well-maintained exhibits, healthy and active animals, and friendly staff. Many highlight the impressive bird and reptile collections, as well as the spacious enclosures for larger animals. The zoo is considered a great family-friendly outing with plenty of shade and resting spots, though some note it can get hot. Parking can be a minor challenge if not arriving early.
"Amazing zoo! Great half off Veteran and Military discount. Get there early because it can be hot and lots to see!
The monkeys, tigers, and little foxes were my favorite. Amazing date idea if you have some down time in Oahu or need some laid back to do in walking distance."
Dominic Petersen
"It was a great experience, got to see rusty an orangutan that has been with this zoo for awhile. All the staff was friendly. Zoo was kept really clean so was animal exhibits. Animals looked healthy and chill. Loved the new additions to the zoo also. Definitely recommend going again with ohana."
Justice CK
"This wasn't the same zoo from my childhood, place was fantastic. Lots of animals, the most impressive was their bird exhibits, there were some African birds that were as big as humans, scared the shit out of me. Layout was also great, food and drink options and a nice play area for the kids in the center of the zoo. Only negative- It was hot but lots of shade, benches to take a break with the kids, it was obvious they put some thought into this. Highly recommend."
Kapeli Odood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Honolulu Zoo is located at the east end of Waikiki, making it accessible by car, bus, or even a pleasant walk from many Waikiki hotels. If driving, there are paid parking lots available, but arriving early is recommended.
There are two main parking options: the main paid lot directly north of the zoo, and the free Waikiki Shell lot to the south. Parking has been easier since COVID, but arriving before 9:30 AM is still advised for the main lot. +1
Yes, TheBus operates routes that stop near the Honolulu Zoo, making it a convenient option if you're staying in Waikiki or other parts of Honolulu.
The Honolulu Zoo is at the very end of Waikiki, making it a walkable distance from many hotels. It's a pleasant stroll along the beach or Kalakaua Avenue.
Walking from your Waikiki accommodation or taking a short bus ride are good options. The zoo is stroller-friendly, so bringing one is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary for adults and children. Check the official Honolulu Zoo website for the most current pricing. Discounts may be available for military personnel.
Yes, purchasing Honolulu Zoo tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons.
The zoo offers discounts for military personnel and veterans. It's always a good idea to check their website or inquire at the entrance for any available promotions.
The Honolulu Zoo typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. Check the official website for exact daily hours, as they can vary seasonally.
Absolutely! The Honolulu Zoo allows visitors to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages, which is a great way to save money.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors often rave about the orangutans, giraffes, rhinos, tigers, and the diverse bird and reptile exhibits. Don't miss the chance to see Rusty the orangutan!
Yes, the Honolulu Zoo is very family-friendly, with a children's playground, stroller accessibility, and engaging exhibits that appeal to all ages. +1
The zoo offers special 'Twilight Tours' on Saturdays, providing a unique opportunity to see animals active at night.
Most visitors spend around 3 hours exploring the zoo without rushing, allowing time to see most exhibits and enjoy the grounds.
Yes, the zoo has plenty of shady spots with benches, making it comfortable to rest, especially during warmer parts of the day.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the zoo has food vendors, many visitors opt to bring their own food. If you do buy food, consider nearby options like Timmy T's Gourmet Grinders for sandwiches.
Yes, there is a purified water fountain located near the gift shop and restrooms, perfect for refilling reusable water bottles.
Food prices at zoos can be high. Packing a picnic is a popular and cost-effective strategy for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The diverse animal enclosures, lush gardens, and unique bird exhibits offer great photo opportunities. Early morning light can be ideal.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of posted rules and avoid using flash that might disturb the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The diverse animal exhibits, from playful primates to majestic African animals, are sure to captivate young minds. Don't miss the chance to see Rusty the orangutan! 💰 Budget Travelers
Consider utilizing public transportation like TheBus to reach the zoo, which is more economical than parking fees and ride-sharing services. 💑 Couples & Date Nights
The zoo's lush grounds and diverse animal encounters provide plenty of conversation starters and memorable moments.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Parking at Honolulu Zoo
Alternatively, there's a free parking lot at the Waikiki Shell, located south of the zoo, which is a short walk away. Some visitors have also found success using public parking garages nearby, such as the one at the Aston Waikiki Sunset hotel. Since the pandemic, parking has generally become easier, but early arrival remains the safest bet.
It's worth noting that some visitors have experienced issues with parking meter extensions not being communicated via text, leading to potential tickets. Always double-check your parking duration and any notification systems to avoid unexpected fees.
Making the Most of Your Visit with Little Ones
Visitors often highlight the zoo's engaging exhibits, such as the primate island and the children's playground, as major draws for kids. The presence of ample shady spots and benches provides comfortable places for parents to rest and feed their babies. Bringing a picnic is also a highly recommended tip for families, making the experience more affordable and convenient.
For a unique experience, consider the Saturday Twilight Tours, which offer a different perspective on the animals as they prepare for bed or wake up for the night. This can be an exciting adventure for curious toddlers and preschoolers.
Experiencing the Honolulu Zoo After Dark
During these tours, guests can observe the bedtime routines of some animals while others are just beginning to stir for the night. It's a chance to see nocturnal creatures and experience the zoo's atmosphere when it's cooler and quieter. Popular areas like the African Savanna, Primate Island, and the Reptile House are often included in these special tours.
Twilight Tours are a great way to see animals that might be less active during the day and offer a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Booking in advance is recommended as these tours can be popular.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit