If you’d love to see some historic and truly inspiring Pacific artwork, you don’t have to travel to Asia to find it! Over 50,000 unique and valuable works of art are housed at the Honolulu Museum of Art. This constitutes the single largest collection of Asian and Pan-Pacific works in the United States! Below, we’ve compiled everything you need to know before visiting. For even more local insight that can help you plan your unforgettable vacation to Oahu, be sure to:
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Everything You Need to Know About the Honolulu Museum of Art
Rich Hawaiian History
While the main draw of the Honolulu Museum of Art is the collection itself, this place occupies a special place in Hawaiian history, as well! The rich and storied past of the museum begins with Anna Rice Cooke, a woman born into a prominent missionary family on Oahu. As an avid appreciator of the arts, she went on to open the original museum in her home on Beretania Street in Honolulu. Cooke’s ultimate mission from the start was to accurately represent Oahu’s highly diverse population and mix of cultures. This was in the 1920s—the Hawaiian landmark has grown exponentially in both size and influence since!
More Than a Museum
The museum’s primary, permanent collection of works has grown to more than 50,000 objects that represent every major Hawaiian culture. These works span nearly 5,000 years—you’ll see works that date all the way back to ancient times! Visitors can spend plenty of time viewing the exhibitions here, but this museum is even more than meets the eye! When in town, be sure to also check out the Spalding House and Doris Duke’s Shangri La! Here’s what you need to know about each:
The Spalding House
The Spalding House is the museum’s secondary location and features a permanent exhibition by David Hockney entitled “L’enfant et Les Sortilèges,” an on-site cafe, and a sculpture garden. Find it at 2411 Makiki Heights Drive in Honolulu.
Doris Duke’s Shangri La
One of Oahu’s most popular attractions is Shangri La, also known as The Center for Islamic Arts and Cultures. This photo-worthy spot features a variety of exhibitions, but the architecture and design alone are incredible! Be sure to leave time for a tour during your visit—you’ll come back with unforgettable memories! Discover Shangri La at 4055 Papu Circle in Honolulu.
What to Know Before You Visit
The HMOA is open Tuesday through Sunday between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Admission costs $20 for adults, $10 for Hawaii residents, and free for people under the age of 18. Museum members also enter for free!
Come Back to a Private, Beachfront Home in Paradise!
After a busy day of exploring Oahu’s many artistic wonders, return to the comfort of one of our beautiful, beachfront properties. You’ll be close to all of the best Oahu attractions like waterfall hikes, botanical gardens, and the Ala Moana Shopping Center! Imagine waking up in an incredible home and looking out over gently crashing waves. Many of our rentals are steps away from the gorgeous beaches of Oahu. If you like the idea of exploring urban Honolulu, you’ll love our selection of South Shore vacation rentals!