Honolulu Zoo

The Honolulu Zoo sits on 42 acres at the edge of Waikiki, right next to Kapiolani Park and a short walk from the beach. It is not a world-class mega-zoo -- and that is actually its strength for families with young children. The compact size means you can see everything in 2-3 hours without exhausting little legs, and the tropical setting with mature banyan trees provides a lush backdrop that feels distinctly Hawaiian.

The African Savanna is the zoo's best exhibit, featuring giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and white rhinos in a shared habitat that mimics the African plains. Elevated viewing platforms let small children look giraffes in the eye, which is a genuine thrill at any age. The elephant exhibit houses two Asian elephants in a recently renovated space -- while modest by mainland standards, for a child seeing an elephant for the first time, the size and proximity are awe-inspiring.

The keiki (children's) zoo section includes a petting area with friendly goats and sheep, a small farm animal display, and interactive learning stations. This area is purpose-built for ages 2-6 and gives young children their first hands-on animal experience. The main playground near the zoo entrance has climbing structures, slides, and swings under the shade of large trees -- it is one of the better playgrounds in the Waikiki area and a perfect place for kids to run around after (or instead of) viewing animals.

Other notable exhibits include the Komodo dragon display (the world's largest lizard, which kids inevitably compare to a dinosaur), a tropical bird house with Hawaiian native species, and a primate section with orangutans and chimpanzees. The reptile house provides welcome air conditioning on hot days and features a variety of snakes, lizards, and turtles.

The biggest practical challenge is heat and sun. The zoo has limited shade, and Honolulu's midday sun is intense. Visit first thing at 10am when the zoo opens and plan to leave by noon. Bring hats, sunscreen, and water for everyone. The zoo allows outside food and drinks, and given the limited food options inside (one basic snack stand), packing snacks is strongly recommended.

After the zoo, the surrounding area offers excellent options. Kapiolani Park (adjacent) has wide open grass fields for running and picnicking. Monsarrat Avenue, which borders the park, has some of Honolulu's best casual restaurants: Diamond Head Market & Grill for plate lunches, Pioneer Saloon for local food, and Bogart's Cafe for breakfast.

Leonard's Bakery, the iconic malasada (Portuguese donut) shop, is a 5-minute drive on Kapahulu Avenue.