03-20-2025
5 Events to Experience at Waikiki Aquarium
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There are a few annual Hawaiian events that go above and beyond expectations. Waikiki Aquarium offers a lot of them. This is not just a 9 to 5 operation; it’s a commitment to the sea life every year, and their continued understanding that sustainability through knowledge and creating memories is clear.
Community-minded with a spirit of adventure and a love of the islands, this attraction is committed to special and ongoing events to get locals and visitors involved in the land on which they stand.
A round of applause for the Waikiki Aquarium and its efforts. From night-time underwater awe to conservation participation, let's attend them all.
It’s time to join us on the Island of Oahu and celebrate this special place and the annual events they bring to everyone.
Why not see them all?
Here are five events you should experience at Waikiki Aquarium on Oahu Hawaii.

World Ocean Month
What can we expect? The unexpected.
Waikiki aquarium joins forces with the conservators and lovers of the ocean to bring visitors activities, celebrations, and stories of Hawaii’s everlasting commitment to the oceans which surround their islands.
Listen to stories of the lives of past Hawaiians, their commitment to and respect for the surrounding oceans, and the reasons why they are held so dearly.
Want to know more about World Ocean Month? Visit the Campaign for Nature for more information and how to get involved.

Spot That Fish
Do you think you know fish? Are you an aficionado of the colors and habitats of native Hawaiian fish?
Whether a novice looking to learn more or just out for a fun day, don’t forget to attend the annual Waikiki Aquarium’s scavenger hunt. This event has become one of the more popular during world ocean day every year.
Collect your prize at the end of a fun-filled and educational look at the fascinating and loved species.
Can you name them all?
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Waikiki Beach Clean Up
Conservation and preservation are the order of the day with this special Waikiki Aquarium event.
The aim?
Keep the beaches clean not only for us but for future generations.
Buckets, sifter bags, and things you need to clean up and remove debris from a nominated beach are supplied. From around, even A.M. World Ocean Day and its organizers encourage people worldwide to do their bit.
Locals and visitors work together to remove rubbish and keep a mindset of preservation and respect for beach life long after the day is over.

To Everything a Season
A collaboration between Waikiki Aquarium and the National Marine Sanctuary comes with a celebration of the changing of the season's annual event, Seasons and the Sea Virtual Ceremony.
Whether here for the event or planning to participate as a matter of personal importance, lovers of this ceremony will take away more than they know.
This truly Hawaiian experience symbolizes the change from the wet to dry seasons all celebrated while the sun goes down.
This is about culture, and it’s about the celebration of the sun, and the power of the sea, and how all combine to give all living things what they currently enjoy- the changing of the seasons.
A cultural event that happens only once a year aims to bring people together, and it certainly succeeds.

Experience Ke Kani O Ke Kai
Every year locals and visitors come to the aquarium to experience this oceanside outdoor concert.
This annual event, held in summer, celebrates popular local entertainers and musicians.
Enjoy the music of this three-concert series and stay for the sights of the aquarium and of course, the beachside sunset.
Pack for a picnic, and this is one you’ll remember forever.
It has been missed over the years but is back with a spirit to rival many musical events around the islands.

What Other Things Does Waikiki Aquarium Offer Annually?
Annual events are often tied into ways in which everyone can participate, so if you happen to be out of the area on those days, you can still experience, be entertained, and learn a lot from the advances designed to include everyone.
Virtual Lectures
The aquarium has joined forces with NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary to learn about this incredible mammal's importance, life, and preservation.
Learn about the nature of the species, the habitats and movements, and what is being done and needs to be done to keep this whale species in our waters for a long time to come.
Live Webcams
See it all happening in real-time with professional cameras showing every move of the secret life of fishes and other creatures. In addition, cameras also show the Monk seal and the South shore of Waikiki.
Immersive and one for everyone to enjoy.
Grab Your Pencils
Learn to draw Hawaiian sea life virtually with dedicated instructors helping new artists determine shapes, sizes, and perspectives while they are entertained by the sea life itself.
From sharks to seals, seahorses, and the much-loved green turtles, this virtual activity is sponsored with much appreciation by the Friends of the Waikiki Aquarium organization.
For any budding artist or just a fun way to supplement regular art classes.

Tips For Finding Annual Events at The Waikiki Aquarium
These tips will help ensure you and your family don’t miss out on annual events or a one-off special occasion.
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Check Out the Calendar
There are always things that you may miss but not if you have the right tools. Most attractions that offer events will have a timeline. Check them out and keep them in your mind’s eye.
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Things change, so check the dates and times.
Dates, times, and activities will always be evolving. Check with the venue for the most up-to-date information..
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Sign up for the newsletter or emails
Sign on to get the heads up on events sooner rather than later. At the very least, you will know what’s going on.
Signup and save. There are some good discounts to be had when signing on to newsletters.
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Use Your Device
Your phone and calendars on pc or tablet can be a lifesaver when thinking about events you don’t want to miss.
We are all busy, and things slip our minds, so use technology to remind you long before the event. It’s all about the planning.

Want To Support the Aquarium?
You, too, can contribute to the viability of this beautiful aquarium and the efforts of the people involved. To offer support, visit their site. Volunteer, donate, or apply for Membership to ensure activities and ongoing care continue for locals and visitors.
As you can see, this attraction is so much more than simply a tourist spot.
Every year there is so much to do and be involved in that it does become somewhat a part of every one who partakes.
This is just a sample of the interactive activities that help highlight, entertain, and educate the world of Hawaii and the people who love and preserve the world around them.
Let’s go to Waikiki. For a month, a weekend, or every year at the same time, there’s plenty to do whether a solo traveler or a family awaiting adventure.

Published by: Tori C. Derrick
President & certified Hawaii travel expert with 15+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
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