How Much Does Admission to the Waikīkī Aquarium Cost?

General admission to the Waikīkī Aquarium is $12, and discounted rates are available. That is the core pricing information published on waikikiaquarium.org. If you are planning a visit, budget $12 per general admission ticket, check the admission page for current discounted-rate eligibility, and consider membership if you expect to return.

Admission at a Glance

The site lists admission under a "Visit" section alongside "Admission Information" and "Plan Your Visit," so the official admission page is the place to confirm current pricing before you go.

What the $12 Covers

The Waikīkī Aquarium describes itself as "Hawaiʻi's Window to the Sea," with a mission to inspire and promote understanding, appreciation, and conservation of Pacific marine life. Your admission gives you access to the exhibit experience, which the site organizes into:

• Exhibits — including an Animal Guide, Plants & Seaweeds, and an Overview Map
• Virtual Experiences — online exhibits and an Audio Guide
• Events & Programs — annual events, special events, activities and classes, community group visits, and school programs

If you want to preview what you'll see before paying, the Virtual Experiences and Audio Guide sections are free to browse on the website.

Discounted Rates: What to Check

The aquarium states that discounted rates are available but does not list the specific categories or amounts in the published summary. Before your visit, check the Admission & Tickets page for:

• Which visitor categories qualify for a discount
• Whether discounts apply to children, seniors, military, or local residents
• Whether any documentation is required at the door

Because eligibility rules can change, treat the website's admission page as the authoritative source rather than relying on third-party listings.

Membership as an Alternative

If you plan to visit more than once, the aquarium offers membership through FOWA (Friends of the Waikīkī Aquarium). The site promotes membership with "great benefits," and members also get access to members-only events — for example, a Members' Night is listed alongside a public event on Oct. 10, 2026.

Membership makes sense if:

• You live on Oʻahu or visit frequently
• You want access to members-only programming
• You want to support the aquarium's conservation mission

It makes less sense for a single one-time visit, where the $12 general admission is the simpler choice.

Planning Your Visit Around Admission

1. Confirm hours. The aquarium is open 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily, with the facility closing at 5:00 p.m. Arrive with enough time to see the exhibits before closing.
2. Check the admission page. Verify the $12 general admission and review discounted-rate details before you arrive.
3. Decide on ticketing. Review the Admission & Tickets information on the website to understand your entry options.
4. Consider membership if you'll return or want member benefits.
5. Plan for extras. The site also lists a Gift Shop, Directions & Parking, and private event facility rentals, so build in time and budget beyond the ticket price if those interest you.

Common Questions

Is $12 the final price? The website lists $12 as general admission and notes discounted rates are available. Any taxes, fees, or add-ons are not specified in the published summary, so confirm at the point of ticket purchase.

Can I buy tickets online? The site directs visitors to an Admission & Tickets page, but the published summary does not detail the online purchase flow. Check that page for current ticketing options.

Are there free days? No free-admission days are mentioned in the available information. Don't assume free entry without confirming on the official site.

What if I'm visiting with a school or community group? The aquarium lists School Programs and Community Group Visits as separate offerings, which may have their own pricing and booking process distinct from general admission.

Bottom Line

Budget $12 for general admission to the Waikīkī Aquarium, expect discounted rates to be available, and confirm the details on the aquarium's Admission & Tickets page before your visit. If you'll visit more than once, compare membership through FOWA against paying per visit. For anything beyond the published $12 and "discounted rates available," the official website is the only reliable source.