Waikiki Aquarium in Oahu, Hawaii
[Flickr/coconut wireless]
With the Pacific Ocean lapping at its shores, the island of O‘ahu is the perfect place for discovering a multitude of rainbow-hued tropical fish. Snorkelers will love the chance to get right in the water with the creatures of the deep, and landlubbers can observe the underwater world without getting their feet wet. Check out these popular stops near downtown Honolulu for some fabulous fish watching.
Waikiki Aquarium - Sure to be a hit with kids, favorite sights at the Waikiki Aquarium include a real-life Nemo (technically a Clownfish) and two endangered Hawaiian Monk Seals. At the aquarium, kids come face-to-face with more than 500 species of aquatic animals and plants. Reef sharks? Sea Jellies? You’ll see them here. Not far from Nuka ‘au and Maka onaona – the resident monk seals – the Edge of the Reef outdoor exhibit recreates a profile of habitats you might find along a Hawaiian rocky shoreline. It also features a touch pool where visitors can feel underwater creatures like sea cucumbers and red pencil urchins. Parents with young children will appreciate the wide walkways allowing for easy stroller access. The Waikiki Aquarium is just a short walk from hotels like New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel and The Lotus at Diamond Head.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – This idyllic snorkel spot made the news with President Obama’s recent visit to the island, when he and his family had private use of the facility. Happily, Hanauma Bay is open to all visitors, not just those of the presidential sort. The clear blue water of this sheltered bay is home to myriad fish, including Hawai‘i’s state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua‘a. If you plan to head out into the water, remember that the underwater wildlife here is protected. Don’t touch or feed any of the fish and refrain from standing on the coral. There is snorkel gear available for rent on the beach if you don’t have your own. Parking here can be limited, so plan to arrive early. If you’d prefer to avoid the hassle, ask your hotel concierge about shuttles or public transportation options – there are several.
The Oceanarium – Located at the Pacific Beach Hotel, the three-story indoor Oceanarium is a 280,000-gallon aquarium featuring more than 70 different species. Viewing the aquarium is free, or dine at the Oceanarium Restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or dinner (consider trying their Pau Hana Friday special, where from 4:30 – 10 pm you can take 25% off the prime rib and crab leg buffet, and indulge in $3 beers). More adventurous types might want to dive in with Snuba – a combination of snorkeling and scuba diving. No certification is necessary, so most anyone can try it. Dives happen every 30 minutes and are scheduled Monday through Saturday.
- Kris Bordessa of Honolulu On The Cheap and Big Island On The Cheap
{ 13 comments… read them below or add one }
Kris-well done. Sounds like something I could love. Somewhat like the Monterey Bay Aquarium without the Hawaii part. Fish are simply mesmerizing to watch, great for all ages.
When we visited, people we talked to recommended against Haunauma – they said it was too crowded and there weren’t that many fish. Instead, we did a lot of snorkeling on the Big Island. We did try to do some at Shark Cove but found the rocks were sharp and the water was rough.
Snorkeling and diving are so amazing. How lucky to have so many great spots.
Wish I was there. But I’m not…although if and when I do visit, these will be on my to-do list of places. They sound spectacular.
I love snorkeling. One of these days, I’ll have to try it in Hawai’i.
I’ve been to Hanauma Bay and it’s BEAUTIFUL! My traveling companion and I didn’t have so much luck with snorkeling, but we did enjoy the views!
We were thinking of trying to make it to Hawaii this spring vacation, and I would have loved to take my children to these aquariums you mention. Unfortunately, we won’t make it there but I will tuck this information away for a future trip.
I’ve only tried snuba once and it was a blast! Good to know where you can find places to do it in Hawaii. Warm weather sounds soooo good right now.
This is a terrific comprehensive guide. I’m bookmarking the site. Very nice.
These are great recommendations!
This looks enchanting — particularly with all the snow outside our window.
There is something so relaxing and zen about watching fish. Whether it’s by the ocean or in an aquarium — so thanks for the helpful information!
MarthaAndMe, Hanauma Bay can get crowded, but as Susan says, it is a beautiful place.
Ruth, Katherine: consider this your own personal zen escape from life – or snow!