The Waikiki Aquarium

Opened in 1904, the Waikiki Aquarium is the third oldest public aquarium in the United States.  A major renovation to the aquarium was completed in 1994.  It has been administered by the University Of Hawaii at Manoa since 1990.  While it may not be as large as other aquariums, the Waikiki Aquarium contains many unique attractions. The focus of the Waikiki Aquarium is the coral reef habitats of Hawaii and the tropical Pacific.

They have several beautiful coral reef exhibits loaded with many different species of corals.   A large indoor tank contains jackfish and reef shark.  Other indoor exhibits include sea jellies, leafy sea dragons, anemones and too many others to list.  Outdoors is a 7,500 gallon reef tank with Hawaiian reef fish.   Another outdoor exhibit has endangered Hawaiian Monk Seals.  Giant clams and a coral farm are also outdoors.  

The Waikiki Aquarium is located on the oceanfront on Kalakaua Avenue, across from Kapiolani Park.  It is within walking distance of Waikiki Beach hotels.  Both the city bus and the tourist trolleys make stops directly in front of the aquarium.  You must board at a different spot to catch the bus/trolley back to Waikiki.  Make sure you ask the driver where to catch the return transportation.

The Waikiki Aquarium is open from 9am - 4:30 pm daily.  Entry fees are $9/adult, $4 youths (13-17 years), $2 Juniors (ages 5-12) and free if you're 4 and under.  Each paid admission includes a free Audio Tour Wand that will allow you to hear a description of each exhibit in the aquarium.  

The Waikiki Aquarium offers many different educational programs.  Many of them are evening programs like exploring the reef at night, after-hours feeding of the animals and even spending an overnight with the Hawaiian Monk Seals.  It is worthwhile to check out the Waikiki Aquarium's website (http://www.waquarium.org/) for information on the programs offered.