ABOUT THE PARK
Located off the east coast of Oahu is where you will find Sea Life Park- Hawaii. This hidden gem offers a stunning backdrop of Koolau Mountain and Makapuu Beach, all while visiting this world-renowned oceanarium. Unlike the average aquarium, Sea Life Park is dedicated to providing a hands-on and interactive experience to engage visitors of all ages in educational programming and conservation efforts.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
Planning a visit to Sea Life Park can be stressful, especially with an overload of information available online and on social media. Our family has gone twice now, and has taken notes on tips and tricks. I hope that this guide will help enhance your visit and make planning less stressful. The best place to start is by visiting Sea Life Park’s official website. You will want to check the park’s schedule for dates and hours of operation for the day you plan to visit. The park is generally open daily (except Tuesdays) from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Be sure to check the website for special events that might take place during your trip. The week we went was during National Whale Watching Week. February is whale season, so there were extra activities and a whale watching site setup. You can book online or through your hotel concierge service for promotional rates. If you wish to schedule an animal encounter with the dolphins or rays, be sure to reserve spots in advance; they can fill up fast. I highly recommend adding a encounter because it can make your visit extra special and memorable.
During the day of your trip, it is recommended to arrive in the morning to ensure you have the time to visit all of the attractions without feeling terribly rushed. The best way to start your day is by looking over the park’s map and show schedule to plan out how you want to spend your time. You can print the map or upload it to your mobile device or grab a paper copy on the day of. I think it is safe to say you will need to block off at least 3-4 hours to visit all the attractions. If you are worried about meal planning, the cafeteria is available on campus with delicious kid-friendly choices, so you have everything you need on site to stay and play a while.
ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE
The opportunity for up-close interactions with various marine life is what makes Sea Life Park most memorable. There is much to do; your entire day will be full. Every aspect of the park emphasizes the importance of preserving marine ecosystems, so you can’t go wrong with any exhibit. Check out this Instagram reel for a video of our day.
One of the park’s most popular attractions is undeniably the dolphin encounter. This experience offers the chance for guests get up close with the dolphins, and even swim with them. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. My husband and I had the chance to do this during our honeymoon, and wanted our kids to get this opportunity. If this is something your family is interested in, be sure to book this activity well ahead of time. Another adventurous activity is the Ray Encounter. This interactive experience invites guests to get up close by touching and feeding stingrays in a safe environment. The last option is for those feeling brave, snorkel up close with the sharks and Hawaiian reef fish that call Sea Life Park home. This in-water encounter offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance and unmatched views of the native whitetip reef sharks.
WATCH A DEMONSTRATION
The Dolphin Show is a educational presentation that take place in the outdoor amphitheater which provides ample views of a live dolphin demonstrations. Learn about the newest training techniques and conservation efforts while watch these magnificent creatures. It is mesmerizing to watch the dolphins swim, jump and splash around. The amount of time and dedication the trainers give these majestic creatures to ensure they are loved and made a part of the Sea Life Ohona is beautiful. Another memorable demonstration is located at the Sea Turtle Lagoon. While at first sight this lagoon may seem like just an interesting exhibit, it is also a breeding sanctuary for the endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu). Over 17,000 hatchlings have emerged and been released to the open ocean since the park has opened its doors. If you attend a live demonstration you can learn some informative facts as you watch feeding time. They are like hungry hungry hippos munching on lettuce leaves.
A SPECIAL SPOT FOR KEIKI
Keiki aka Kids will absolutely adore the play structure at Keiki Park. Soak in the sun, kick back your feet, and take in the stunning views of the Hawaiian Reef while your little’s explore the play structure. The play ground has two sections so both the bigger kids and tiny ones can play safely.
HABITAT EXPLORATION
Our favorite spot was the Hale Manu Aviary. The exhibit allows visitors to get up close, and even feed lovebirds and cockatiels. An docent will give guests a popsicle stick with bird seed on it. You can hold your stick up to the branches and the birds will munch away. My oldest was a bird whisper, he was able to get the birds to perch on his stick. The Penguin exhibit is where you’ll find adorable Humboldt Penguins, which are typically indigenous to Chile and Peru. These endangered rescues enjoy the Hawaiian weather! Watch them cool off they can always take a dip. Another family favorite was the Discovery Reef Pool. Young ones and the young at heart will love this section because you get to feed the tropical fish. In this area you will find a tunnel window where little ones can climb in a get up close to the fish native to the Hawaiian Islands. This viewing spot was so clear it was like you were swimming under the water with the fish.
LUAU
Complete your day at Sea Life Park by attending the Aloha Kai Luau, where you can celebrate your visit to the island of Oahu with authentic Hawaiian music, dancing, storytelling, and traditional cuisine. I enjoy this Luau greatly because of its educational elements and hands-on activities. The authentic Imu ceremony was a unique experience. The interactive activities include Polynesian Tattooing, Coconut weaving, Ukulele tutorial, Kupe’e making, Hula lessons, Ulu Maika, and Fishnet Throwing. Everyone enjoyed the coconut tree climbing, Hula dancing, and Polynesian performances. I think the fire dancing is what caught my boys’ attention most. This was definitely an unforgettable experience. I wrote a separate guide to the Luau to give a sneak peek. Click here for the guide.
TIPS
- Check the weather. Prepare for the worst, and hope for the best! On hot sunny days, be sure to wear sunscreen. Having a hat and sunglasses is also wise. On rainy days, be sure to pack a raincoat.
- I recommend going in your swim suit. We were swim shorts and rash guards so we could participate in the dolphin encounter, as well as visit the beach located right across the road from the park. I packed a few towels and a change of clothing so we could attend the Luau in style.
- The park offers a wide range of amenities for visitors. Including restrooms throughout the park with baby-changing stations and water fountains.
- Dining is available on site. Whether you are looking for a snack or a full meal, there are plenty of kid-friendly choices to select from.
- If you prefer to bring your own food, the park offers a designated picnic area with tables, where you can relax and enjoy the view.
- Getting to the park is super easy. You can pay $5 to park on campus or take public transportation via the Waikiki trolley. I recommend driving so you can enjoy the scenic viewing spots along the way.
- Be sure to check out the surrounding area. Makapu’u Beach Park and Lighthouse. I highly recommend making time to explore the area while you are on this side of the island.
- Check out online discounts and promotions. Do not miss out on the military discount, which is phenomenal. If you purchase a luau package admission to Sea Life Park is included. I highly recommend the Luau it was one of the most memorable experiences on the island.
SEA LIFE PARK INFORMATION
Address: 41-202 Kalanianaole Highway #7, Waimanalo, HI 96795 USA
Hours: Sea Life Park is open 10:00AM to 4:00PM Monday, Tuesday and Friday-Sunday. (Closed on Wednesday and Thursday.)
Price: General Admission $59.99 (Adults)/$49.99 (Children)/Resident and Military discounts available.
Website: Link
***The Playful Parent is not paid to promote attractions, sharing information and my unbiased opinion about our family’s favorite spots to travel is an honor. I want to thank Sea Life Park for inviting us out for the day of fun and learning, so we could get all the information to write this guide and help parents plan their trip. All content and photos from the article are intellectual property of The Playful Parent, protected by the DMCA.***
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