Oahu Attraction Guide

Art on the Zoo Fence

Art on the Zoo Fence is a weekend Waikiki art tradition along the Honolulu Zoo fence, where local artists sell paintings, prints and photography near Kapiolani Park.

Plan Your Visit

Art on the Zoo Fence, Oahu

For more than 50 years, artists have been displaying their works on the east side of the fence of the Honolulu Zoo. The exhibition, known as Art on the Zoo Fence, has been one of Hawaii's lasting traditions.

Here, you can browse local artwork and meet Hawaii's artists in person. Each artist presents his or her original works and prints. A wide variety of art styles can be seen, but the majority are oils, watercolors, acrylics and photography.

Art on the Zoo Fence takes place every Saturday and Sunday from

on the zoo fence on Monsarrat Avenue, right across from the bandstand at Kapiolani Park. It's a shaded setting under large banyan trees and within walking distance of Waikiki Beach and hotels.

Key Features

Weekend outdoor art display along the Honolulu Zoo fence
Local artists sell paintings, prints, photography and island-inspired pieces
Long-running Waikiki art tradition with roots dating to 1953
Set on Monsarrat Avenue near Kapiolani Park
Free to browse, with artwork available for purchase directly from artists
Earlier visits usually offer more time to browse and talk story
Artist turnout and setup can vary with weather and season
Easy to combine with Waikiki Beach, the zoo or a Diamond Head-area walk
A relaxed alternative to mass-produced Waikiki souvenirs

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called Art on the Zoo Fence?

The name comes from the outdoor display location along the Honolulu Zoo fence, where artists hang and arrange their work for weekend visitors.

What makes this different from a gallery?

The art is displayed outside, and visitors often meet the artists directly instead of viewing the work through a formal gallery setting.

How long has Art on the Zoo Fence been around?

The group traces its outdoor art display tradition back to 1953, making it one of Waikiki's long-running weekend art traditions.

What kinds of Hawaii scenes show up in the artwork?

You may see beach scenes, surf, flowers, fish, hula, Diamond Head, rural landscapes, island streets and colorful abstract pieces inspired by Hawaii.

Is it worth visiting if you are not buying art?

Yes. It can be a pleasant Waikiki walk, and browsing the fence gives you a closer look at how local artists see Oahu and the other islands.