Located across from
Kapiolani Park, next to
Kaimana Beach on the island of Oahu, the War Memorial
Natatorium was completed in 1927 as a memorial to the 102
soldiers from Hawaii who were killed in World War I. Built
in Hawaiian beaux arts architecture, the memorial’s centerpiece
is the 20-foot tall entrance arch featuring four stone eagles.
City planners decided during the late 1920s that they wanted
a “living memorial” and that an Olympic-sized swimming pool
would be fitting. During that time, all of Hawaii’s competitive
swimming events took place in the open waters of Honolulu
Harbor. So an enclosed pool was considered to be a worthy
public facility.
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.
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