{"id":123638,"date":"2025-04-08T16:36:04","date_gmt":"2025-04-09T02:36:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hawaii.com\/?p=123638"},"modified":"2025-04-11T12:30:48","modified_gmt":"2025-04-11T22:30:48","slug":"maui-ocean-center-a-premier-aquarium","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hawaii.com\/maui-ocean-center-a-premier-aquarium\/","title":{"rendered":"Maui Ocean Center: A Premier Aquarium"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Maui Ocean Center is a marvel. Opened in 1998, while it may seem odd to have an aquarium on an island surrounded by a living sea, step inside and you\u2019ll quickly understand why it\u2019s one of Maui\u2019s top attractions.<\/p>\n

The ocean\u2019s magic comes alive without needing to hop on a boat or strap on a snorkel. Through immersive exhibits and a deep reverence for Hawaiian marine life, the center offers a profound look into the sea that surrounds the Islands. From shimmering schools of tropical fish to the graceful dance of sea turtles and the quiet power of native sharks, every encounter deepens your connection to Hawai\u2018i\u2019s underwater world. You will never look at the ocean the same way again. I sure didn’t.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat an amazing aquarium! I’ve only been to one other aquarium (Monterey Bay) and this one is head and shoulders above that one.\u201d \u2014 <\/em>Bill L.<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

\"Green

Green Sea Turtle (Maui Ocean Center) Shutterstock<\/p><\/div>\n

Key Exhibits at Maui Ocean Center<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Humpbacks of Hawai\u02bbi Exhibit & Sphere<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Experience the magic of humpback whales like never before in an immersive 3D theater with surround sound that brings their world to life. Watch as they breach, sing, and care for their young, all while learning about their annual migration to Hawai\u2018i\u2019s warm waters each winter to breed and give birth before returning to the Northern Pacific.<\/p>\n

Learn what you can do to protect these special creatures.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Hawaiians and the Sea<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Hawaiians and the Sea is a powerful exhibit that honors the deep-rooted bond between Native Hawaiians and the ocean. Through stories, artifacts, and interactive displays, it explores traditional wayfinding, sustainable fishing practices, and the cultural beliefs that view the sea not just as a resource \u2014 but as a revered ancestor and life force.<\/p>\n

Discover how Native Hawaiians have rediscovered the skill of wayfinding and sailing by the stars through the Polynesian Voyaging Society.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Kaho\u2018olawe: History and Healing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

A poignant look at one of Hawai\u2018i\u2019s most sacred and storied islands once used as a military training ground, Kaho\u02bbolawe is now the focus of powerful restoration efforts. This exhibit shares the island\u2019s cultural importance to Native Hawaiians and the community-driven journey to heal its land and spirit.<\/p>\n

Find out what is being done to restore Kahoolawe\u2019s land through the Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC)<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Living Reef Exhibit<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Home to over 40 species of Hawaiian corals, this exhibit highlights the vibrant ecosystems of Hawaii’s reefs and the myriad marine species they support. \u200b<\/p>\n

Is your sunscreen approved for use in Hawai\u2018i? Learn about Hawai\u2018i\u2019s law on reef-safe sunscreens.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Open Ocean Exhibit<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Plunges into the heart of the deep with a breathtaking 750,000-gallon tank teeming with sharks, rays, and other open-ocean predators. The highlight? A 54-foot-long underwater tunnel that surrounds you in a 360-degree view, offering an unforgettable, up-close encounter with the ocean\u2019s most powerful \u2014 and graceful \u2014 inhabitants.<\/p>\n

Learn more about manta rays<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Turtle Lagoon<\/strong><\/h3>\n

This serene exhibit offers an up-close view of these ancient mariners, honu, while sharing their life cycle, habitat, and the cultural respect they hold in Hawaiian tradition. It also highlights vital conservation efforts to protect them, ensuring future generations can continue to witness their gentle presence in island waters.<\/p>\n

Learn more about sea turtles here.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Plant Life<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Many plant species are found exclusively in the Hawaiian Islands and nowhere else in the world.\u00a0 It is estimated that there are around 1,200 native flowering plant species in Hawai\u2019i. This exhibit highlights various types of trees, shrubs, herbs, and ferns.<\/p>\n

Discover the beauty and meaning of Native Hawaiian plants.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Blowfish

Blowfish at the Maui Ocean Center (Shutterstock)<\/p><\/div>\n

Sleep in the Deep \u2013 Sleepover at Maui Ocean Center<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Imagine drifting off to bed lulled to sleep by sharks, manta rays, and swirling schools of tropical fish. Every month, Maui Ocean Center hosts Sleep in the Deep<\/em>,<\/strong><\/a> a one-of-a-kind sleepover where keiki (kids) and families can camp out below the massive Open Ocean Exhibit. It\u2019s part slumber party, part ocean adventure\u2014 with educational activities, guided tours, and after-hours fun. Private group bookings are also available, making it perfect for birthday parties or school outings. It\u2019s a night your kids will never forget \u2014 and honestly, neither will you.<\/p>\n

Pricing and Participants<\/strong><\/h4>\n