Imagine strolling through a 42-acre tropical paradise, surrounded by over 1,230 animals from around the world, representing 905 different species. The Honolulu Zoo offers an unforgettable experience, blending education and entertainment for visitors of all ages.
As you explore the zoo’s uniquely-designed habitats, you’ll be immersed in various tropical ecosystems, getting up close with fascinating animals and learning about conservation efforts. With a rich history and a variety of exhibits, the Honolulu Zoo is a must-visit attraction on Oahu, providing a perfect blend of fun and learning for the whole family.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about planning your visit, from the zoo’s history to its diverse animal exhibits and special programs, ensuring you make the most of your experience.
The History and Evolution of Honolulu Zoo
You might be surprised to learn that the Honolulu Zoo has its roots in royal grounds. Located in Kapi’olani Park on the southeast end of Waikiki Beach, the site originally served as an ahupua’a, a traditional land division that encompassed the area between the mountains and the sea.
From Royal Grounds to Public Zoo
In 1877, King Kalakaua ordered the draining of the marshlands to create Kapi’olani Park, named after his wife, Queen Kapiolani. Initially, the park housed his personal collection of rare and exotic birds. By 1914, Ben Hollinger, the Administrator of Parks and Recreation, expanded the collection to include various animals such as lion cubs, sun bears, monkeys, and an elephant named Daisy, marking the official beginning of what would become the Honolulu Zoo.
Growth and Development Through the Decades
Over the years, the zoo continued to grow and evolve. Despite facing financial hardships during the Great Depression, it remained a vital part of the Hawaiian community. Significant animal acquisitions in the 1970s, including deer, elephants, chimpanzees, and camels, enhanced the collection. By 1990, the zoo underwent a complete revamp to create more stimulating environments for the animals and a more engaging experience for visitors, setting the foundation for the modern Honolulu Zoo you can visit today.
Honolulu Zoo, Oahu, Hawaii: Visitor Information
To make the most of your visit to the Honolulu Zoo, understanding its operational hours, admission fees, and location is crucial. The Honolulu Zoo is a popular attraction, and being prepared will ensure a smooth and enjoyable day out.
Hours of Operation and Admission Fees
The Honolulu Zoo welcomes visitors seven days a week from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Admission prices are structured to be family-friendly, with free entry for children under 2 years, $13 for children aged 3-12, and $21 for visitors 13 years and older. This makes it an affordable outing for families.
With these admission fees, you can plan your day accordingly and enjoy the various exhibits without breaking the bank.
Location and Parking Details
You’ll find the Honolulu Zoo conveniently located at 151 Kapahulu Avenue in Honolulu, at the southeast end of Waikiki Beach. Parking is available in the zoo’s parking lot on Kapahulu Avenue, though it can fill up quickly during peak tourist season and weekends.
Additional parking options include metered street parking along Monsarrat Avenue and the Waikiki Shell parking lot when events aren’t scheduled, giving you alternatives if the main lot is full.
Exploring the Zoo’s Exhibits and Animals
As you step into the Honolulu Zoo, you’ll be greeted by an astonishing array of animals from around the world. The zoo is home to over 1,230 animals representing 905 different species, all thoughtfully arranged in habitats that reflect their natural environments.
African Wildlife Section
The African Wildlife Section transports you to the savannas of Africa, where you can observe magnificent creatures like giraffes, zebras, and lions in specially designed exhibits that balance animal welfare with visitor viewing opportunities.
Bird and Reptile Collections
The zoo’s diverse bird collection features both native Hawaiian species and exotic birds from around the world, housed in aviaries that showcase their natural behaviors and beautiful plumage. The reptile exhibits offer close encounters with fascinating creatures, including massive Galapagos tortoises and colorful tropical snakes and lizards.
Special Exhibits and Tropical Species
As you explore the zoo, you’ll discover animals uniquely adapted to Pacific island ecosystems, giving you insight into Hawaii’s distinctive natural heritage. Special exhibits rotate throughout the year, ensuring that even repeat visitors will find new animal encounters and educational opportunities with each visit.
Family-Friendly Activities and Programs
Families visiting Oahu can create lasting memories at the Honolulu Zoo, where education and entertainment come together seamlessly. The zoo’s mission is to ‘inspire the stewardship of our living world by providing meaningful experiences to our guests.’
Educational Programs and Tours
The Honolulu Zoo offers a rich array of educational programs designed to deepen your understanding of wildlife conservation and animal behavior. The zoo’s guided tours provide you with expert insights into the animals’ lives, habitats, and the conservation efforts being made to protect endangered species around the world.
- Expert-led tours for a deeper understanding of the animals and their habitats.
- Programs tailored for visitors of all ages, ensuring both kids and adults can engage with the content.
Children’s Zoo and Interactive Experiences
For your children, the interactive experiences at the Children’s Zoo create memorable hands-on learning opportunities where they can connect with gentle animals in a supervised environment. Some of the activities include:
- Interactive keeper talks where kids can ask questions directly to the animal care experts.
- Storytelling sessions and animal-themed crafts that engage younger children while developing their creativity and listening skills.
These programs and activities are designed to make learning about animals and their habitats a fun experience for the whole family.
Planning Your Visit to Honolulu Zoo
Located in the heart of Waikiki, the Honolulu Zoo provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early in the day to avoid both crowds and the midday heat, giving you the best chance to see animals when they’re most active.
The zoo offers a manageable experience that can be completed in about 2-3 hours, making it easy to incorporate into your day alongside other Waikiki attractions. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes, as the 42-acre property requires a fair amount of walking.Tips for a great visit:Plan your route to include the Children’s Zoo and any scheduled feeding times or keeper talks that match your children’s interests. The zoo is home to many rare and endangered species, so take your time at these special exhibits to appreciate animals you may not see at other zoos around the world.
By purchasing your tickets online before your visit, you can save time waiting in line, especially during peak tourist season. With its unique collection of tropical species and intimate setting, the Honolulu Zoo offers a more personal wildlife experience, making it a great addition to your day in Honolulu.
