War Memorial Natatorium, Oahu

Inside the memorial, a 100 meter by 40 meter saltwater swimming pool was built that was used as a recreational gathering spot by local residents as well as a training pool by Olympian swimmers Duke Kahanamoku, Buster Crabbe and Johnny Weissmuller.

In 1979, the natatorium was closed for safety reasons. In the years after, the site was neglected until in 2000, its exterior façade was renovated. The archway of the natatorium can be viewed, but the inside area where the pool is located remains closed.

War Memorial Natatorium in Bullet Points

• Located across from Kapiolani Park, next to Kaimana Beach
• Completed in 1927 as a memorial to the 102 soldiers from Hawaii who were killed in World War I
• Inside is a 100 meter by 40 meter saltwater swimming pool, but this area is off-limits (only the archway and outer façade can be viewed)

Driving Directions to War Memorial Natatorium / Location

The War Memorial Natatorium is within walking distance of central Waikiki. Walk down Kalakaua Ave. toward the Honolulu Zoo, on the eastern end of Waikiki. After Kapahulu Ave. walk along the right sidewalk and the War Memorial Natatorium will be on the right.

Address: 2777 Kalakaua Ave, Hawaii 96815

War Memorial Natatorium Map (top)

Waikiki Weather (top)

Now 85°F Windchill: 85°F Partly Cloudy

Location: Honolulu, HI, US Wind: 18 mph NE Humidity: 55% Visibility: 0.1 mi Pressure: 29.97 in falling Sunrise: 6:37 am Sunset: 5:52 pm

Sat Hi: 84°F Low: 71°F Partly Cloudy

Sun Hi: 85°F Low: 72°F Mostly Cloudy

War Memorial Natatorium Photos (click to enlarge) (top)

War Memorial Natatorium Reviews and Comments (top)

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Ann Carol

Posted 308 days ago

I discovered the nostalgic Hawaiian War Memorial Natatorium on my first trip to Hawaii in 1995 and have visited it on every subsequent trip. I was relieved to find out the triple-arch entry facade is being saved, even though the last time I spoke with someone there, I was told the derelict-condition pool and seating areas would probably be demolished some day. Look through the archways while using your imagination and you can see and hear the Hawaiian swimmers and their fans on a bright, sunny day. Be prepared for the pigeon brigade looking for food scraps in the parking lot!

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