Highlights of the Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum is located on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. It displays an extensive collection relating to the history, culture, and natural environment of Hawaii and Polynesia and is regarded as Hawaii’s largest museum. It was built in 1889 by American businessman, politician, and philanthropist Charles Bishop.
Hawaiian Hall
At Hawaiian Hall, the heart of the museum, three-dimensional exhibits trace Hawaii’s history, culture, and natural environment. The design of the space, which makes striking use of the open atrium, is another highlight.
The Hawaiian Hall, the museum’s main hall, displays the complete skeleton of a sperm whale.
A sperm whale’s enormous head contains a large quantity of oil called spermaceti. It is thought that the whale regulates the oil’s temperature to change its weight, helping it dive and rise to the surface.
Diamond Head can be seen behind the lone house. Waikīkī is now lined with high-rise buildings, but perhaps this is what the landscape once looked like.
The shells’ luster and textured surfaces accentuate the beauty of the sky. The idea of painting pictures on shells resembles kai-awase, a traditional Japanese shell-matching game.
Pacific Region Culture and Hawaiian Sports
A wooden sculpture from Papua New Guinea.
He looks a little like Mr Bean.
In addition to its extensive Hawaiian collection, the museum is rich in cultural artifacts from Polynesia and other parts of the Pacific. Comparing their forms and materials reveals both the features shared by the islands and the distinctive character of each region.
At the 2020 Summer Olympics (Tokyo Olympics), surfing was included as an Olympic sport for the first time. The gold medal was won by Hawaii-born Carissa Moore.
Her achievements are honored alongside those of the legendary Hawaiian waterman Duke Kahanamoku. Duke Kahanamoku was the father of modern surfing and won 3 Olympic gold medals as a swimmer.
Richard T. Mamiya Science Adventure Center
The Richard T. Mamiya Science Adventure Center is also located on the premises. This interactive science center offers fun for the whole family.
Richard T. Mamiya was a Japanese American known as a cardiac surgeon and philanthropist.
Smoke and lighting recreate a volcanic eruption.
Interactive exhibits about natural phenomena offer a different perspective on Hawaii than the historical and cultural exhibits. If you are traveling with children, allow extra time to include this center in your visit.
Essential Information about Bishop Museum
The information below was checked against official sources on October 11, 2026. Please also check the latest information on the official website when planning your trip.
- 🔗 Official website
- Check visitor information, tickets, and exhibition details.
Visit - Bishop MuseumAt Bishop Museum, we invite you to plan your visit and explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Hawaiʻi. Our...www.bishopmuseum.org - 📍 Address
- 1525 Bernice Street, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi 96817, United States
- 🕒 Opening hours
- Open daily from 9:00 to 17:00. The last check-in for general admission is 16:00, and entry may not be permitted after that time.
- 🚫 Closed
- Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
- 💶 Admission
- General admission prices vary by day of the week and seasonal demand.
- Adults 33.95–38.95 US dollars
- Ages 65 and over 30.95–35.95 US dollars
- Ages 4–17 25.95–30.95 US dollars
General admission includes the permanent galleries. Check the terms for special exhibitions and programs before purchasing.
- 🎫 Tickets
- Online reservations are available through the official website. Payment is by credit card only; cash is not accepted. Check the applicable price before purchasing.
- ⏱️ Visit duration
- Allow approximately 2–3 hours to explore Hawaiian Hall and the main exhibitions. ⚠️ The time required depends on whether you visit only Hawaiian Hall or also explore the Science Adventure Center and special exhibitions. If you plan to join a museum program, check its start time as well.
Getting to the Bishop Museum
You can reach the Bishop Museum by car, taxi, or public bus.
Route buses
From Waikiki, take TheBus number 2 toward School St./Middle St., get off at the intersection of School Street and Kapālama Street, and walk along Kapālama Avenue and Bernice Street. The journey takes approximately 1 hours.
By car
From Waikiki, head west on H-1, take exit 20A onto Likelike Highway, and turn right at Bernice Street.
Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The parking fee is 1 spaces 16 US dollars for nonresidents and 1 spaces 8 US dollars for Hawaii residents. Members displaying a valid parking sticker park free.
For attractions, transport and suggested itineraries, see “Oahu: A guide to attractions, food, transportation, and a sample itinerary”.
