For the Keiki & Ohana: The Honolulu Zoo

For the Keiki and Ohana

“Can the crocodiles eat us, mama? Because the last time, it looked like they could come out of the fence. I think they can squeeze through. Can they, mama? And can we go to the Keiki Zoo again? Pleeeaasee? Can we?” And so goes the conversation for the 30 minutes it takes to drive from our home to the Honolulu Zoo.

Honolulu Zoo Crocodile

Insider Tip: Bring a handful of quarters to pay for the metered parking in the zoo’s parking lot.

One of the reasons our family loves a trip to the Honolulu Zoo so much is because it is as close to being “free” as possible and we can leisurely spend a good chunk of just enjoying one another! With our “Flamingo Family” zoo pass (which includes a one year membership for up to 2 adults and 6 children), costs just $25 for the entire year. There are other, more inclusive packages available, a plus for busy families! One time admission is $12 for those 13 years and older, and a kama’aina (the Hawaiian word for local resident) rate is available at just $6 per person. Just present your local ID card at the entrance window.

While at the Honolulu Zoo has all of the things you are likely to find at many city zoos, worth noting is the Keiki Zoo, dedicated after a $5.1 million complex was completed on the grounds in 2006. Children and adults alike pet the goats and llamas, crawl underground into a guinea pig burrow and immerse yourself into the koi (a type of Japanese carp) pond tunnel. In addition to this, few people know that the Honolulu Zoo also has a number of outstanding Zoo Programs for schools and families alike. Some examples include “Art in the Zoo”, “Dinner Safari”, Honolulu Zoo Strollers (a special class for toddlers and their parents), “Snooze in the Zoo” and “Keiki Zookeeper”.

Honolulu Zoo African Savanna

The Zoo itself is organized into four main areas: the African savanna, the tropical forest, the islands of the Pacific and the Children’s Zoo. There is also a reptile house (great for those truly sweltering hot Hawaii days since it is fully shaded), a snack bar and wonderfully green swaths of grass where families can picnic; coolers and outside food are welcome at the zoo.

Picnic Insider Tip: Fill up your cooler with cold drinks and pick up picnic lunch from one of the great eateries near the Zoo.

• Diamond Head Market and Grill on Monsarrat Avenue. They have tasty salads, sandwiches and desserts as well as gourmet type plate lunch specials. Although a bit pricey for a family outing, if your budget allows it, I would highly recommend a picnic lunch from here!
• Another family favorite is Iyasume Bento-Ya (boxed lunch) on Kapahulu Avenue. The bentos and daily specials are authentic Japanese and wonderfully delicious!
• In the mood for a classic Hawaiian meal? Then Rainbow Drive-In (cash only) is your lunch place haven. Located on Kanaina Avenue, Rainbow’s is a long-time Hawaii tradition and features plate lunch standards such as Loco Moco, Mahi-Mahi and Shoyu Chicken.

What are your recommendations for visiting the Honolulu Zoo?

Related posts:

1. For the Keiki & Ohana: The Honolulu Aquarium For the Keiki and Ohana When I drive by...
2. For the Keiki & Ohana: The Honolulu Academy of Arts For the Keiki and Ohana Where can you go...
3. For the Keiki & Ohana: A New Hawaii Traditions Series on Family Fun For the Keiki and Ohana During the summer when...
4. For the Keiki & Ohana: Sea Life Park For the Keiki and Ohana Located at the curve...
5. For the Keiki & Ohana: The Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center For the Keiki and Ohana Yearning for an air-conditioned,...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.