Waikiki Aquarium
Discover Hawaii's vibrant marine life at the Waikiki Aquarium, featuring over 3,000 Pacific species in engaging exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Waikiki Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Hawaii's vibrant marine life at the Waikiki Aquarium, featuring over 3,000 Pacific species in engaging exhibits.
"A charming glimpse into Hawaii's underwater world, perfect for families and marine enthusiasts."
💰 WIC Discount Available
If you have WIC, you might get a voucher for $5 entry per adult! Ask your local WIC office.
🚶♀️ Walkable from Waikiki
It's about a 20-minute walk from many Waikiki hotels. Enjoy the scenic stroll along the coast.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mesmerizing Jellyfish
Indoor Exhibits
Watch these ethereal creatures drift and pulse in their tanks. A truly captivating display of marine beauty.
The Majestic Grouper
Main Tank
Witness the impressive size and aggressive colors of the giant grouper. A powerful presence in its habitat.
Vibrant Clownfish
Reef Exhibits
Spot Nemo and his friends darting amongst anemones. A classic and always delightful sight.
Delicate Sea Stars
Touch Pools/Exhibits
Observe these fascinating echinoderms up close. Learn about their unique feeding habits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Size and Scope
Renovations & Monk Seals
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 WIC Discount Available
If you have WIC, you might get a voucher for $5 entry per adult! Ask your local WIC office.
🚶♀️ Walkable from Waikiki
It's about a 20-minute walk from many Waikiki hotels. Enjoy the scenic stroll along the coast.
🐢 Monk Seals on Loan
The monk seals are currently on loan to a research facility. Check for updates before your visit.
🎟️ Kama'aina Discount
Hawaii residents and military get a discounted admission price. Bring your ID!
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 WIC Discount Available
If you have WIC, you might get a voucher for $5 entry per adult! Ask your local WIC office.
🚶♀️ Walkable from Waikiki
It's about a 20-minute walk from many Waikiki hotels. Enjoy the scenic stroll along the coast.
🐢 Monk Seals on Loan
The monk seals are currently on loan to a research facility. Check for updates before your visit.
🎟️ Kama'aina Discount
Hawaii residents and military get a discounted admission price. Bring your ID!
💡 Look for Experts
Keep an eye out for staff who can share fun facts about the marine life and local aquatic history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Waikiki Aquarium charming with its focus on Hawaiian marine life, particularly the mesmerizing jellyfish and impressive grouper. While some note its smaller size and occasional outdated exhibits, it's generally considered a worthwhile and affordable visit, especially for families. The limited parking and ongoing renovations are minor drawbacks for some.
"Waikiki Aquarium: A Mix of Old Charm and Marine Wonders
The Waikiki Aquarium offers a fascinating glimpse into Hawaii's marine life, but it's a bit of a mixed bag. Parking is limited, though weekdays offer a better chance of snagging a spot.
The outdoor exhibits are currently under renovation, which is a bummer, but the indoor displays are where the aquarium truly shines. The jellyfish are mesmerizing, and the grouper is a definite highlight. You'll also find plenty of other cool creatures to admire. The seahorses were especially amazing!
However, the aquarium's age shows in some areas. Some of the signage and stickers feel a bit outdated. Still, if you're looking for a quick and easy way to see some amazing marine animals, and at a relatively cheap price, the Waikiki Aquarium is worth a visit."
W Z
"Visited this aquarium on the way to Diamond Head monument. Not too expensive to get in. We paid on the door. Loads of aquatic tanks of various sizes - containing a variety of tropical and local fish. Some tanks seem a bit small for the fish - but plenty to see and some expansion is still going on (I believe). Had a couple of school visits on the day we visited. A couple of experts on hand to explain the fish and history of local aquatic life. If you’ve got time on your hands I’d suggest popping into here to kill a bit of time. The blue jellyfish tank is cool."
Sardev Singh
"A pretty nice aquarium, but only the indoor parts of it were open. The monk seal was away on loan and other outdoor exhibits were under renovation. We liked the indoor exhibits though! Some of the tanks were a little cloudy and we noticed that the signage didn’t always match the fish that were actually in the tank. At one point a staff member came out and shared some fun facts about the sharks and large fish that were in the big tank, which we would’ve liked more of. Overall a pretty enjoyable visit but we wished there was more to see when we were being charged full price admission."
Madeline Klein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Waikiki Aquarium is easily accessible. You can walk from most Waikiki hotels (about 20 minutes), take a bus, or drive and find parking, though it can be limited.
Yes, there is parking available, but it's limited. Weekdays tend to be better for finding a spot.
From Honolulu, you can take public transportation like TheBus, drive and utilize the limited parking, or enjoy a pleasant walk if you're staying in the Waikiki area.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option to reach the Waikiki Aquarium from anywhere in Honolulu.
Yes, the Waikiki Aquarium is located near other popular spots like the Honolulu Zoo and is a pleasant walk from many Waikiki hotels and beaches.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is $12, with discounts for Kama'aina (Hawaii residents), military, and children ages 5-13 ($5). Children under 5 are free.
Yes, Kama'aina (Hawaii residents), military personnel, and WIC recipients can get discounted tickets.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the door. However, booking online in advance might be recommended during peak times.
The Waikiki Aquarium is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current hours.
Generally, tickets are non-refundable, so it's important to confirm your plans before purchasing.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the mesmerizing jellyfish, the impressive giant grouper, vibrant clownfish, and delicate sea stars. +2
Yes, it's a great spot for families with children due to its manageable size and engaging displays.
While some exhibits are more observational, there are often opportunities to learn from staff and sometimes touch pools.
The Waikiki Aquarium is relatively small compared to larger mainland aquariums, making it a focused and manageable visit.
You can see over 3,000 Hawaiian and tropical Pacific marine animals, including various fish, jellyfish, seahorses, and more. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Waikiki Aquarium does not have a full-service restaurant. It's best to plan for dining before or after your visit.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the aquarium. There are many restaurants nearby in Waikiki.
You'll find a wide variety of dining options in Waikiki, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, just a short walk away.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of flash photography, especially around sensitive exhibits. +1
The jellyfish tanks, the vibrant reef displays with clownfish, and the impressive grouper tank offer great photo opportunities. +1
Video recording is usually permitted, but check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking advantage of the WIC discount if applicable, which can significantly reduce admission costs.
While the monk seals are away, the aquarium offers a concentrated dose of marine wonder that’s manageable and enjoyable for a family visit.💰 Budget Travelers
and the potential WIC voucher makes it an incredibly affordable $5 per adult.While some visitors find it small, others appreciate its focused nature, allowing for a shorter, less expensive visit compared to larger attractions. You can easily combine a visit here with other free or low-cost activities in Waikiki, like beachcombing or exploring the local parks.
🎓 Educational Visitors
Look for opportunities to engage with on-site experts who can share insights into local aquatic life and conservation efforts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Hawaiian Marine Life
Beyond the popular residents, keep an eye out for fascinating creatures like seahorses and various reef fish. The giant grouper is a particularly impressive resident, known for its size and striking colors.
It's worth noting that some visitors have mentioned that certain tanks might appear small for the fish within them, and signage isn't always perfectly accurate.
Family Fun and Toddler Adventures
A significant perk for families is the potential for discounted admission. If you have WIC benefits, you might be eligible for a voucher that allows entry for $5 per adult, making it a very budget-friendly outing.
While the monk seals are currently on loan, there are still plenty of other fascinating creatures to discover. The aquarium's layout is generally stroller-friendly, and the staff are often happy to share interesting facts, enhancing the experience for curious young minds.
Understanding Admission and Discounts
Kama'aina (Hawaii residents) and military personnel can enjoy a reduced admission fee, typically around $8.
This is a great incentive for locals to visit and for military families stationed in Hawaii. Furthermore, a notable program exists for WIC recipients, who may be able to obtain vouchers for a $5 per adult entry fee, making it an exceptionally affordable option for eligible families.It's always advisable to check the official Waikiki Aquarium website for the most up-to-date pricing and any special offers or events. While tickets can often be purchased at the door, booking in advance might be beneficial during busy periods to ensure entry.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit