Honolulu Zoo

Honolulu Zoo is a 42-acre Waikiki attraction near Kapiolani Park, known for tropical paths, animal habitats, Diamond Head views and royal park history.

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Honolulu Zoo, Oahu

The Honolulu Zoo , located right across from popular Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu, is home to hundreds of animals from around the world. Not only is it the largest zoo within a 2,300-mile radius, but it is also the only zoo in the U.S. that had its origins in a grant given by a king.

Back in 1876, King Kalakaua made 300 acres of land available for lease. The Honolulu Zoo started out as a grand public park carved out of marshes and lagoons in this area, which was later named Queen Kapiolani Park. King Kalakaua did not only succeed in beautifying this park, but also used it to keep his personal collection of exotic birds and horses. The first animals, including a monkey, a honey bear and a few lion cubs, arrived in the early 1900s.

Today, more than 750,000 people visit the 42-acre Honolulu Zoo each year to see the more than 1,230 animals that live here. Animal habitats in the zoo include an African Savannah, a Tropical Forest and Pacific Islands birds and reptiles.

A popular activity is the Twilight Tour, where parents and kids get to observe these exotic animals at night and find out what they do after dark. This tour takes place Saturdays from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm (April-August) and from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm (September-March). Occasionally there are other unique events, such as VW Beetles Invade the Zoo, showcasing unique oldtimers. Check the Honolulu Zoo website for the exact dates of any special events, honoluluzoo.org.

Key Features

42-acre zoo near the Diamond Head end of Waikiki
Located at 151 Kapahulu Avenue by Kapiolani Park
Entry currently listed from 10:00am to 3:00pm
Zoo grounds currently close at 4:00pm
Closed Christmas Day
Current general admission: $21 adults and $13 children ages 3-12
Infants under 2 are currently free
Kama'aina and U.S. active military rates available with ID
Royal-origin history connected with King Kalakaua and Kapiolani Park
Animal habitats, tropical paths, lawns and Diamond Head views
Metered zoo parking lot entrance on Kapahulu Avenue

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Honolulu Zoo connected with Hawaii's royal history?

The zoo grew from land connected with King Kalakaua and the creation of Kapiolani Park, giving it a royal-origin story that is unusual among U.S. zoos.

What makes Honolulu Zoo different from a mainland city zoo?

The setting is part of the experience. Palms, open lawns, tropical plantings and Diamond Head views make the walk feel closely connected with Waikiki and Kapiolani Park.

Is Honolulu Zoo mostly for young children?

No. Families visit often, but adults also come for the shaded paths, animal habitats, photography, park history and a quieter break from the busiest parts of Waikiki.

What should visitors avoid doing at Honolulu Zoo?

Do not feed, tease or disturb the animals, and follow zoo rules for prohibited items. The zoo is home to the animals first, so a calm visit is better for everyone.

What else is nearby after a zoo visit?

Kapiolani Park, Waikiki Beach, Waikiki Aquarium, Queen's Surf Beach and the Diamond Head side of Waikiki are all close enough to include before or after the zoo.