Swim with the fishes, a day at the Waikiki Aquarium

The Perfect Size

The Waikiki Aquarium, nestled on the picturesque shores of Waikiki in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a charming marine facility that offers visitors a window into the mesmerizing underwater world of the Pacific. Founded in 1904, it is one of the oldest public aquariums in the United States and is renowned for its focus on showcasing the unique and diverse marine life found in Hawaiian waters. With a mission to inspire conservation and understanding of aquatic environments, the Waikiki Aquarium boasts a stunning collection of living coral reefs, vibrant tropical fish, mesmerizing seahorses, and even endangered Hawaiian monk seals.

A Visit to the Waikiki Aquarium

The aquarium has a cozy charm that feels just right for a family visit. It takes about an hour to meander through and by then the kids are usually ready for a snack. Our personal favorites include a curious octopus, mesmerizing jellyfish, a giant tank depicting a Pacifc reef (complete with giant clams and anemones), sea horses, frog fish, and of course, sharks. At the end of the dark hall, you emerge into the blinding brightness of the outside world and find yourself within splashing distance of the Pacific Ocean. Here, you get a closeup of a Hawaiian reef where you can gently touch hermit crabs and sea urchins. Nearby, you can catch a couple of endangered Hawaiian monk seals swimming or lounging in their exhibit.

A Great Option in any Weather

Although I’m a fan of visiting the aquarium on rainy days (see more rainy day options here), it’s also great for hot sunny days when you need to escape the heat. If you do happen to visit on a sunny day, there is a big grassy area for a picnic afterward your visit. Your only challenge is to make it to the exit without getting sucked into the gift shop. Then again, it has a lovely little collection and you should let yourself get sucked in.

Looking for more activities in Waikiki?

Favorite places to eat in Waikiki

If you didn’t pack yourself a picnic lunch and your stomach is rumbling, don’t fear. You have many great options nearby.

• Barefoot Beach Cafe. You don’t have to go far for tasty eats with the perfect seaside setting.
• Leonard’s Malasadas. Does my mouth water every time I drive past the nostalgic neon sign? Yes. Is there a 50/50 chance that I stop for dobash filled malasadas? Yes. And you should too.
• Musubi Café Iyasume. Musubis are a Hawaiian staple, ready to bring on your next adventure. The musubis here are consistently delicious and worth the wait.
• Marugame Udon. A bit of a walk from the aquarium, and usually a line but if you plan ahead you can enjoy fresh udon (noodles) made from scratch right in front of you and tasty tempura.

Best beaches to explore after your visit to the Waikiki Aquarium

Waikiki Beach is lovely, inviting and family-friendly but if you want to escape the crowds head to one of these nearby beaches.

• Visit adjacent Sans Souci Beach and play on the sea wall.
• Diamond Head Beach Park. Escape the crowds at Waikiki for a sunset picnic or surf session!
• Magic Island. A local favorite for celebrations, water sports and exercise with a view.

Take a hike!

There are lots of great family-friendly hikes if you want to explore beyond Diamond Head. Check out this post for a roundup.

More ideas for family fun after a visit to the aquarium

• Waikiki Family Activity Roundup. A mix of family favorites in and around Waikiki.
• Honolulu zoo. If you need more animal fix, cross the street for a visit to the Honolulu zoo.
• Family photos! Let me plan a fun morning for your family so you can have a great time and take home beautiful memories. You can see examples of photo sessions around Waikiki here, here, and here.

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