Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii?
What makes it 88% Kids-Friendly: Children 4–12 enjoy touch pools, turtle talks, free activity booklets, and optional sleepover; railings, wide ramps, and staff presentations keep the visit both engaging and safe.
Positives:
- Easy Accessibility: Wide, level paths throughout the aquarium accommodate strollers and wheelchairs.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: Free children’s booklets, crayons and activity sheets are available at Guest Services.
- Convenient Changing Facilities: Family restrooms include baby changing tables for toddlers and infants.
Challenges:
- No Onsite Stroller Rentals: Bring your own stroller to navigate long exhibit routes.
- Slippery Touch Pool Floors: Remind kids to walk carefully around the wet intertidal zone.
- Loud 3D Show: The Humpbacks film can be loud; skip it for sensitive younger children.
What is Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii?
- A 5-acre aquarium in Mā‘alaea, Maui that showcases Hawaiian marine life.
- Eight exhibition zones replicate habitats from intertidal tide pools and coral reefs to open-ocean depths.
- Features a 240-degree underwater tunnel, a turtle lagoon, and shark and stingray exhibits.
What is so special about Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii for with kids?
- 750,000-gallon Open Ocean Tunnel with sharks, turtles and tropical fish
- Interactive touch pool in the intertidal zone for hands-on marine encounters
- Up-close viewing of green sea turtles at Turtle Lagoon
- Short, engaging 3D whale migration film for kids aged 4+
- Free marine naturalist talks throughout the day
- Fully stroller and wheelchair accessible with family restrooms
- Seasonal coral-spawning and whale presentations add extra fun
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 1–2 hours covers the main exhibits and a 3D whale show without tiring young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii
Open Ocean Tunnel:
Walk through the 750,000-gallon tank surrounded by sharks, turtles and tropical fish.
Tip: Arrive at opening to enjoy clear views before crowds form.
Turtle Lagoon:
Watch green sea turtles swim close to bench-height viewing ledges.
Tip: Bring a small bag for kids to lean on low barriers and spot turtles easily.
Intertidal Touch Pool:
Touch starfish, sea urchins and friendly rays in the shallow reef area.
Tip: Have children wash hands before and after touching to protect creatures.
Humpbacks 3D Sphere Experience:
Enjoy a 10-minute multi-sensory film on Hawaiian whale migration.
Tip: Best for kids 4+; skip if under 3 due to louder sound levels.
Daily Marine Naturalist Talks:
Join short, interactive presentations at Living Reef, Turtle Lagoon and Open Ocean exhibits.
Tip: Pick up the talk schedule at Guest Services and arrive early for front-row spots.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii
- Early Entry: Get here right at opening to tour the Open Ocean Tunnel before it fills up.
- Plan Around Talks: Grab the marine naturalist schedule and visit exhibits in time for presentations.
- Combine with Harbor: Pack swimsuits to head to nearby Ma‘alaea Harbor for beach play after your visit.
Reviews of Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii
Wellington Joe
Going during the week was a perfect time, plus we went after lunch, so some of the morning crowd was gone. The Center is a good size, not too big, not too small. There is something for everyone. We met a fairly new staff person, McKenna. She was delightful and knowledgeable. You have to pay for parking now, how much depends on how many hours you plan to stay.
Matt Cardin
This was awesome. Never been this close to a green sea turtle and they act really friendly. There was a lot of information to be had and tons of beautiful exhibits. The humpback whale 3d sphere was really cool as well. Great sound and film quality. Very engaging. Totally worth it and not even that expensive.
Cathi Barrett
We were lucky enough to take a Behind the Scenes tour of the center, then spent time looking at all of the exhibits. It was amazing seeing all the conservation efforts at this facility. Staff was incredible, knowledgeable and engaging. It was pricey but I would do it again and again. If you have little ones, it's very conducive to entertaining kids.
Meek K
The Maui Ocean Center was a great experience. I went with my sisters and niece. Kama'aina discount $29 adult regular price is in the $50 range as of October 2025. We stopped at the little "pools" where you can see many different types of ocena life. While they do have one where you can touch, I don't recommend that personally out of concern for the sea life, so we just look. Loved the underwater t...
TheMrDesertjoe
I wanted to take a moment to share my recent experience at the Maui Ocean Center, which I believe is an absolute must-see if you ever find yourself in Maui. The variety of sea life on display is simply amazing. I was particularly captivated by the sea turtles; they are such cool creatures and truly mesmerizing to watch! Each aquarium was filled with interesting fish, and I can't help but mention ...
When is the best time to visit Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii (Hawaii, United States)?
December–April features extra whale talks and clear tunnel views. In spring, ask Guest Services about free coral-spawning viewings.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult general admission (2×$50) | USD 100 |
| Child general admission (2×$30) | USD 60 |
| Parking fee | USD 5 |
| Total Estimated | USD 165 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii
Address: 192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793, USA
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About Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 808-270-700010 BEST nearby Activities
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