Splish Splash!
SEA LIFE OF ALL SORTS—LIKE THIS HAIRY YELLOW HERMIT CRAB—AWAIT YOUR VISIT TO THE WAIKIKI AQUARIUM. PHOTO: COURTESY WAIKIKI AQUARIUM
The ocean that surrounds our islands is filled with a rich aquatic life that you cannot find elsewhere in the world—and the same is true for the Waikiki Aquarium. Located on the shoreline of Kapi‘olani Park, the aquarium is one of the oldest in the country and provides visitors with front-row seats to the mysteries of the sea.
“We have a number of unique species of marine animals that are only seen here at the aquarium,” says Waikiki Aquarium director of community outreach Marylou Foley.
Some of these species include the peppermint angelfish, Pacific giant clam and the Hawaiian monk seal. You also can spend the day leisurely gazing at mesmerizing displays that include a jellyfish gallery, a coral farm and a shark exhibit. For a hands-on experience, head to the Edge of the Reef exhibit, where you can hold sea urchins and hermit crabs.
The aquarium also is home to a number of ongoing programs, as well as special events. Twice a day, visitors can attend a monk seal feeding session (times vary). Every Wednesday at 3 p.m., the aquarium hosts a different activity for keiki.
The Waikiki Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cost is $9 for adults, $6 for seniors 65 and above, $4 for youths 13-17, $2 for children 5-12 and children under 4 are free. For more information and a full list of exhibits and upcoming events, visit www.waquarium.org.
Waikiki Aquarium
2777 Kalakaua Ave. [D:12 Waikiki Map]
(808) 923-9741
