Waikīkī Aquarium
About
Since March 19, 1904

A long & venerable history.

The second-oldest public aquarium in the United States, born of a streetcar line, raised by the University of Hawaiʻi, and still inspiring discovery 120+ years later.

  1. •
    1904

    Founded as the Honolulu Aquarium

    Opened March 19, 1904 by the Honolulu Rapid Transit Co. as a destination at the end of the streetcar line. Charles M. Cooke gifted $8,000 for construction; James B. Castle contributed the lease for the site. 35 tanks, 400 marine organisms, declared by biologist David Starr Jordan as having the finest collection of fishes in the world.

    Founded as the Honolulu Aquarium
  2. •
    1904

    Frederick A. Potter, first Director

    A clerk for the Honolulu Rapid Transit Company, Potter became the Aquarium's first Director despite no formal training in marine sciences. He was a vigorous supporter of Hawaiian marine life and held the role for 36 years.

    Frederick A. Potter, first Director
  3. •
    1912

    Marine biology laboratory established

    The C.M. Cooke Estate donated funds for a marine biology laboratory adjoining the Aquarium, the beginning of formal scientific research on the site.

    Marine biology laboratory established
  4. •
    1919

    University of Hawaiʻi takes over

    Administration of the Aquarium transfers to the University of Hawaiʻi. For the next several decades, admissions go to the State General Fund, leaving little for upkeep.

    University of Hawaiʻi takes over
  5. •
    1940

    Spencer Tinker, second Director

    Tinker, a faculty member of the U.H. Zoology Department, becomes Director. He authored landmark books on Hawaiian fishes and Pacific crustaceans during his tenure.

    Spencer Tinker, second Director
  6. •
    1975

    Dr. Leighton Taylor, third Director

    An ichthyologist and world-renowned shark expert, Dr. Taylor revitalized the institution. By the end of his 11-year tenure, the Aquarium had a $1M annual budget, 23 full-time staff, and innovative new exhibits including the chambered nautilus display.

    Dr. Leighton Taylor, third Director
  7. •
    1990

    Modern era begins

    Continued growth in living-collection capacity, conservation programs, and education. The Aquarium becomes one of the world's longest-running coral propagation institutions.

    Modern era begins
  8. •
    2024

    120th Anniversary

    We celebrate 120 years of inspiring discovery, education and conservation on the shoreline of Waikīkī Beach.

    120th Anniversary