Department of Enterprise Services

OUR MISSION

The mission of the Honolulu Zoo is to inspire stewardship of our living world by providing conservation, education, and meaningful experiences to our community. The Zoo emphasizes Pacific tropical island ecosystems and our traditional values of malama (caring) and ho'okipa (hospitality).

HISTORY

The Honolulu Zoo is unique in that it is the only zoo in the United States to be established by grants made by a sovereign monarch.

In 1914, the City of Honolulu assumed responsibility for Kapi`olani Park and Ben Hollinger, the first Park Director for Kapi`olani Park, began collecting animals “for the children of Hawai`i.”  His collection began with a monkey, bear and an African elephant.  In 1947, 42.5 acres within Kapi`olani Park, was designated as the Honolulu Zoo.  A Master Plan in 1984, was developed for a Tropical Zoological Garden.  All exhibits were organized into three tropical ecological zones: the African Savanna, Asian and American Tropical Forests, and Pacific Islands.

There are approximately 900 different animals from the tropics that now reside at the Honolulu Zoo.  Komodo Dragons, orangutans, elephants, primates, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and a variety of African animals can be viewed in their specially-designed habitats daily.

Hours of Operation:

Open daily, closed on Christmas Day
from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
(Zoo grounds closes at 4:00 p.m.)

151 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815

The Honolulu Zoo is located between the slopes of Diamond Head and Waikiki at the corner of Kapahulu Avenue and Kalakaua Avenue.

Visitor Information Line:

(808) 971-7171

general admission:

  • Adults $21

    13 years & older

  • Children $13

    3 - 12 years (with an accompanying adult)

Kama'aina / u.s. military:

  • Adults $10

    13 years & older (VALID I.D. REQUIRED PER ADULT)

  • Children $6

    3 -12 years (with an accompanying adult)

2 years & under are FREE

*Daily tickets can be purchased upon entry into the zoo. No advance tickets available.*

  • The Zoo parking lot entrance is located on Kapahulu Avenue. Parking fee is $1.50/ hour with a 4 hour max at one time. Machines accept credit cards, bills and coins – exact change only. 
  • Parking administered by ProPark, Inc. Business Hours: (808) 509-8600/ Weekends and After Hours: (808) 294-3018

Alcohol, balloons, ball playing, barbeques, bicycles, bubbles, electronic cigarettes (vapes), drones, feeding of animals, frisbees, loud radios/speakers, motorized vehicles, pets, roller blades/skates, scooters, skate boards, smoking, tree climbing, tricycles, whistles.

  • Remain with your group at all times.
  • Stay on pathways. Keep off of railings and fences – their habitats are designed to protect you and the animals from harm.
  • RESPECT THE ANIMALS. Please DO NOT tap on the glass, cross barriers, throw anything into exhibits or make excessive noise.  This is their home. Please report any disturbance immediately to (808) 971-7174.  
  • Keep in mind that animals need their privacy and rest just like humans. They have off-exhibit areas and may not be visible for viewing, you can check back later on in the day.
  • Place all trash and recyclables in their proper receptacles.    
  • THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING  AND SUPPORT, WE HOPE YOU ENJOY YOUR DAY AT THE HONOLULU ZOO!

The Honolulu Zoo allows service animals accompanying individuals with disabilities. Please check-in with our ticket booth staff to go over the policy

Lost and found items will be turned into our ticket booth staff daily.  To inquire about a lost item, please call zoo administration (808) 971-7174.

First aid is located with our ticket booth staff or one of our security personnel on grounds. For emergencies, please call zoo administration at (808) 971-7174.

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MEMBERSHIPS, EDUCATION AND GROUP FIELD TRIPS

The Honolulu Zoological Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to support the Honolulu Zoo.

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GIFT SHOP, FOOD CONCESSION AND PARTIES/EVENTS

For all your souvenirs, stroller and wheelchair rentals to planning a birthday party or special event.

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