Honolulu Zoo
Park Tropical city zoo in Waikiki, family-friendly exhibits
Located at the edge of Waikiki near Kapiolani Park, this family-friendly zoo exhibits tropical and endangered species; visitors combine animal viewing with nearby beaches, picnics and Oʻahu sightseeing.
The Honolulu Zoo is a municipal zoo on the eastern edge of Waikiki in Honolulu, adjacent to Queen Kapiolani Park and Diamond Head. It opened as a public city-run zoo in 1914 and occupies about 42 acres.
Exhibits focus on animals from tropical and Pacific Rim habitats alongside more familiar zoo species, with walkable paths and shaded enclosures suitable for families. The site is compact enough to visit in a half day while still offering a range of mammals, birds, reptiles and interpretive signage.
The zoo developed from earlier private and civic animal collections into a formal municipal institution in the early 20th century and has seen incremental redevelopment and exhibit improvements since then. Management and animal-care facilities have been modernized periodically to meet contemporary zoological standards.
Situated at the eastern end of Waikiki, the zoo sits between the urban beach strip and the residential slopes of Diamond Head. It is within walking distance of many Waikiki hotels and directly accessible from city roads and public transport.
- Location tip: Located at the eastern end of Waikiki next to Queen Kapiolani Park and Diamond Head, making combined visits with the beach and park convenient.
- Best time to visit: Mornings are generally cooler and animals tend to be more active, so early visits are best for viewing.
How to Get to Honolulu Zoo #
Located at 151 Kapahulu Ave next to Waikīkī and Queen Kapiʻolani Park. From Waikīkī hotels walk east along Kalākaua Avenue (about 10-20 minutes) or take TheBus routes that stop nearby; limited on-site parking is available.
Tips for Visiting Honolulu Zoo #
- Buy timed-entry tickets online to avoid the midday queue, especially in high season.
- Start at the Keiki (Children's) Zoo and work clockwise to avoid backtracking when animals are more active in the morning.
- Bring local insect repellent for outdoor exhibits and lightweight rain gear - tropical showers come fast.
Best Time to Visit Honolulu Zoo #
Mornings are best year-round to see more active animals; winter brings slightly fewer tourists.
Weather & Climate near Honolulu Zoo #
Subtropical climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 18°C to 30°C. Moderate rainfall (855 mm/year).
January
January is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 19°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (156 mm).
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February
February is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (69 mm).
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March
March is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 19°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 20°C. Moderate rainfall (51 mm).
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May
May is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 21°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm).
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June
June is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 22°C. Moderate rainfall (38 mm).
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July
July is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 23°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm).
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 30°C and lows of 23°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm).
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September
September is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 23°C. The driest month with just 18 mm.
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October
October is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm).
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November
November is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 21°C. Moderate rainfall (78 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 20°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm).
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