Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial

The Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial is a commemorative site in Waikiki featuring a 100-meter saltwater pool built directly into the Pacific Ocean, decorated with Beaux-Arts architecture and stone eagles. The structure combines functional swimming facilities with monumental architectural design.

The memorial opened in 1927 to honor approximately 10,000 Hawaiian citizens who served in World War I, with 101 losing their lives. The project emerged from the desire to make these sacrifices and service permanently visible.

The site is named after legendary swimmer Duke Kahanamoku, who performed the opening swim and left a lasting mark on the facility. For decades, Hawaiian swimmers and athletes gathered here for competitions and training, making it a meaningful meeting place for the community.

The grounds are open for ceremonies and viewing, though the pool section has remained closed since 1979. Visitors can explore the architecture and memorial grounds themselves, even though the water facility is no longer functional.

This is the only remaining saltwater pool in the country built directly into the ocean, making it a rare engineering achievement of its era. The construction demonstrates an innovative approach to combining military honor with modern swimming sport.

GPS coordinates: 21.26453,-157.82220

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:41