When you visit Honolulu, Hawaii, you can step into the second-oldest still-operating public aquarium in the United States. Founded in 1904 and situated right next to a living coral reef along the Waikīkī shoreline, the Waikīkī Aquarium has been an institution of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa since 1919. Today, you will discover more than 3,500 organisms representing 490 species of marine plants and animals.
As you explore the facility, you will encounter groundbreaking exhibits showcasing Pacific marine life. The aquarium was the first in the United States to display living Pacific corals using natural sunlight and seawater, and it holds the longest-lived giant clam in any aquarium worldwide. You can also view unique marine species such as chambered nautiluses, blacktip reef sharks, broadclub cuttlefish, and mahimahi.
Beyond the aquatic life, you can admire public art installations on-site, including the 'Tropical Sounds' ceramic sculptures by Jun Kaneko and the Vita Marinae ceramic tile waterscape created by Claude Horan. Recognized as a Coastal Ecosystem Learning Center, this historic institution offers you a rich opportunity to learn about marine ecology, conservation, and research right on the ocean's edge.
What to see at Waikiki Aquarium
- Explore displays featuring more than 3,500 marine organisms across 490 species.
- See living Pacific corals, first successfully cultured in the United States at this facility.
- View unique aquatic life including chambered nautiluses, blacktip reef sharks, and giant clams.
- Admire on-site art like Jun Kaneko's ceramic sculptures and Claude Horan's tile waterscape.
Visiting tips
Be sure to look for the groundbreaking living coral exhibits, which use natural sunlight and water from a seawater well right on the Waikīkī shoreline.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Waikiki Aquarium is easy to reach on Honolulu’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Honolulu Zoo. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Honolulu travel guide.
See the full Honolulu travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.