Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art Culture & Design

Amazing place! It's definitely the lesser known attraction on the island. So glad I was able to get a ticket and went to see it for myself. It's away from the actual museum, and there's a shuttle that's included in your ticket to take you from the museum to the actual spot which was a house with a huge garden. The decor of the rooms were amazing and the whole place would transport you to another world. I wouldn't spoil too much for you. You would have to go there to see it in person. Make sure you book your ticket in advance!

The tour was more than I could have hoped for. The guide was friendly, helpful, considerate, and helped my students to understand what they were looking at. Her knowledge helped bring the home to life. It was a bit hot, but they gave us fans and a little treat at the end to help cool us off. I loved the tour and feel so lucky to have seen it.

A cultural experience not to be missed when visiting Honolulu.It takes a little planning, but it is worth it. Only open a few days each week and reservations fill up in advance. I had been trying to go for several visits, and finally made it work. Hubby complained in advance but came along.Total duration is about 2 hours - 30 minutes each way by small bus and an hour in the museum/home which is ample. We knew very little about Islamic Art, but the collection was fascinating and substantial. The grounds themselves are enough of a reason to visit and the story behind Doris Duke was very interesting. Hubby admitted that this was a highlight of this trip and I agreed. Still got back well in time for lunch and time at the beach.

Great hidden gem of a touring spot. Only thing that would have made this better was a more informative "tour " by knowledgeable docents. It's self paced but no real signage of things. The small docent talk was wonderful. And enjoyed the ice cream at the end. I'm thankful i came early in the morning as it can get hot...especially since there is no air conditioning. The added bonus is that this includes admission into the HOMA museum for the day as well. So you can enjoy this wonderful museum as well. If you are planning to have lunch at HOMA as well, would highly recommend you make reservations. So plan your day and enjoy the experience!

Absolutely amazing experience. This is a must-visit. Despite being a local and living here all my life I only got the chance to experience this place now. It was worth the wait. Breathtaking views overlooking Diamond Head, as well as Islamic architecture lining the Doris Duke estate. An insane amount of plants adorning the mosque-like buildings. I want to come back again just to be around such a beautiful place once again. The 8x8 artist exhibition here is also very inspiring and uplifting to promote local artists/performers. I hope one day I can perform and dance here in such a beautiful space.Your admission to Shangri La also qualifies you for free admission to the Honolulu Museum of Art. Definitely stop by after the tour to make your trip worth it!

Absolutely a must and I don't want to diminish the place or experience by my now 4 star, previous 5 star review. If possible I take visiting guests here because it's magnificent. Unfortunately, the docents on 5ths trip, were less than informative. We had a great reception and still wonderful departure with ice cream and water. There is little to no description about what's on display so it's up to inquiring or docents to fill in what you're seeing. On all previous 4 trips we got several presentations about Doris and the property. This trip had two small talks but they omitted 90% of what I was previously explained. Wonderful in its own right, but unfortunate that the information is insufficient.

Make a reservation and go, you won't be disappointed. It's gorgeous. I love Islamic tile and art and will come here again and again.

I have been wanting to see this museum for years. You have to book months in advance and it goes through the Honolulu Museum of Art (HOMA)The grounds that the museum sits on are BREATHTAKING!! Overloking the ocean, it was originally a private residence (Doris Duke) and is now home to amazing Islamic artifacts. DO NOT write it off thinking "I don't care about middle eastern art" because there are other beautiful pieces that might interest you. She traveled throughout India as well and the craftsmanship in the ceiling carvings alone rival the Sistine Chapel.Trip takes about 1.5 hours and includes transportation from the HOMA to the museum (about 15 min drive) and refreshments afterwards.

Dorothy's vast knowledge of Islamic art was outstanding and greatly improved our experience. Walking throughout the premises really made it a memorable experience. Ice cream treat at the end of the tour. :)

Gorgeous property. So much to see and take in. Beautiful art work in an exquisite setting. Loved it!