Waikiki Aquarium, Honolulu

The Waikiki Aquarium holds the distinction of being the third oldest public aquarium in the United States. Situated along the Waikiki shoreline, adjacent to a thriving coral reef, it houses a diverse array of marine life comprising over 3,500 organisms spanning 490 different species of marine plants and animals. Each year, the facility attracts more than 330,000 visitors, and it also plays host to educational activities and programs that engage over 30,000 schoolchildren.

Interestingly, the inception of the Aquarium traces back to 1904 when it was established by the Honolulu Rapid Transit Authority. Their motive was to encourage more people to use the trolley system by locating the aquarium at the end of the trolley line.

The Waikiki Aquarium holds the distinction of being the world's first facility to successfully maintain and breed the chambered nautilus. Additionally, it pioneered the creation of living coral displays as far back as the mid-1970s, a feat known for its challenges in captivity. Eminent biologist David Starr Jordan once acclaimed the Waikiki Aquarium for possessing the finest collection of fishes globally. Notably, this aquarium showcases vibrantly colored fish and corals that exist nowhere else on Earth, promising a greater diversity of marine life than the waters off the coast of Waikiki itself.

Why You Should Visit:
While it may be smaller than other aquariums, the layout is nice, there's plenty to see, and the staff is very helpful and nice.
Recommended as a nice simple thing to do; a comfortable, relaxed stroll. You can see everything within an hour.
AC on the inside; hands-on experience on the outside, plus viewing of seals and some places to picnic.

Tip:
If you are a student, bring your student ID for a discount.