Pearl Harbor National Memorial
A solemn memorial and historic site commemorating the 1941 attack, offering profound reflection on WWII.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn memorial and historic site commemorating the 1941 attack, offering profound reflection on WWII.
"An unforgettable, deeply moving experience that brings history to life."
🎯 Book Arizona Tickets Early
Free but $1 reservation fee. Book 30 days ahead or try standby.
🎒 Clear Bags Only!
No backpacks or purses. Clear bags must meet size limits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
USS Arizona Memorial
Pearl Harbor
A solemn tribute above the sunken battleship, a powerful reminder of sacrifice.
Battleship Missouri Memorial
Ford Island
The site of Japan's surrender, offering a comprehensive look at naval history.
Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Ford Island
Explore iconic aircraft and exhibits detailing the attack and its impact.
Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
Pearl Harbor
Discover the history of submarines and tour the USS Bowfin.
Planning Your Visit
Arizona Memorial Tickets: Book Ahead!
Bag Policy & Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Arizona Tickets Early
Free but $1 reservation fee. Book 30 days ahead or try standby.
🎒 Clear Bags Only!
No backpacks or purses. Clear bags must meet size limits.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a clear water bottle; some fountains may be off.
🚶♀️ Explore the Free Museums
Visitor center museums offer great context before the Arizona.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Arizona Tickets Early
Free but $1 reservation fee. Book 30 days ahead or try standby.
🎒 Clear Bags Only!
No backpacks or purses. Clear bags must meet size limits.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a clear water bottle; some fountains may be off.
🚶♀️ Explore the Free Museums
Visitor center museums offer great context before the Arizona.
🚢 Consider the Missouri Tour
Guided tours offer unique access to the Battleship Missouri.
⏰ Arrive Early for Standby
Standby for Arizona tickets can be quick, especially in the morning.
🎧 Audio Tours Enhance Visit
Enhance your understanding with informative audio guides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Pearl Harbor as a deeply moving and historically significant experience. The free access to the USS Arizona Memorial and its surrounding museums is highly praised, offering a powerful glimpse into a pivotal moment in history. While the solemnity is appreciated, some find it complex for very young children. The organization and respect shown by staff are frequently highlighted.
"Visiting Pearl Harbor is both awe-inspiring and deeply sobering. The memorial is beautifully maintained, and it offers a powerful glimpse into one of the most pivotal moments in history. Standing above the USS Arizona, you can feel the weight of the past and the sacrifice made by so many. It's an incredibly moving experience that brings history to life in a way that books and films simply cannot.
The fact that this experience is free to the public makes it all the more remarkable. It’s a gift—both educational and emotional—and a must-see for anyone visiting Oahu. Truly unforgettable."
David Nilsen
"Must visit place when visiting Oahu,Hawaii. Wanted to see pearl harbor without spending all day there so I booked a tour with Hawaii Rainbow Tours and did the Pearl Harbor Island Tour. Great choice. Got to spend 1 hr and 30min here and got to see and do a whole lot.
They have many bathrooms.
Nice gift shop.
Free museums and some paid ones.
They even have a little mart to buy snacks at if your a little hungry.
Great stop!"
ItalianJapanese
"Everything was nicely laid out and way finding was clear. It was as good of an experience as I could have expected being that it is not your typical "fun" tourist attraction, it's more about learning and reflecting and being in the presence of a memorial including a very unique gravesite.
They have things very organized and orderly when it comes to the boat ride experience and having real service members welcoming us on to the boats and driving us over to the memorial was unique. I appreciated the park rangers, it is run by the national park service and they did a great job.
The displays and museums were informative and it's great to see so much history come alive in their displays throughout the exhibits.
I appreciated the interactive elements and the explanations of such a complex period of history. Even my 8 yr old found some things to latch on to that interested him but in hindsight I think that this would have been a better trip for him for when he was older and maybe learning about this period of history in school. He has read the I Survived book about pearl harbor so he had that touch point for context but even then it is very complex for an 8 yr old.
The amount of time you spend at the Arizona memorial was really the right amount of time and didn't seem too rushed.
Overall we had a good day walking around and learning. I have visited as a teenager and don't remember getting to see the exhibits so this repeat visit was not a waste of time."
Christina Jupp Grove
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive, take a taxi/rideshare, or use public transportation. The drive from Waikiki is about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Parking at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is available for a fee (around $7).
Yes, Pearl Harbor is an active U.S. Navy base. However, the National Memorial and its museums are accessible to the public. Access to certain areas may be restricted.
Yes, TheBus routes 20 and 42 go directly to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center from Waikiki. It's a budget-friendly option, though it may take longer than driving.
There is paid parking available at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Some visitors mention paying around $7 for parking.
Taxis and rideshares are generally available, but it's advisable to check availability during peak times. Some visitors recommend pre-booking if you have a tight schedule.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial grounds, exhibit halls, and theater are free to enter. However, a $1 reservation fee applies to the USS Arizona Memorial tickets, which are essential for boarding the boat.
Tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial are free but require a $1 reservation fee. They can be booked online via recreation.gov up to 30 days in advance, or a limited number are available for same-day standby.
The Passport to Pearl Harbor is a package that includes admission to the Battleship Missouri Memorial, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. It's a good value if you plan to visit multiple attractions over two days.
Yes, you can try the standby line. Arrive early and get in line at the theater for standby tickets. It's not guaranteed, but many visitors have success. +1
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is typically open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, specific museum hours may vary, and the USS Arizona Memorial program has its own schedule. Always check the official NPS website for the most current hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors recommend starting with the free museums at the Visitor Center to understand the historical context before heading to the USS Arizona Memorial. Consider audio tours for deeper insights. +1
A visit to the USS Arizona Memorial and Visitor Center museums can take 2-3 hours. To include the Battleship Missouri, Aviation Museum, and Submarine Museum, plan for a full day.
While you can explore independently, guided tours are available for specific attractions like the Battleship Missouri. Many visitors find self-guided exploration sufficient and more flexible.
Oil, often called 'black tears,' still seeps from the USS Arizona. It's considered an active military burial site, and disturbing the vessel to fix the leak is avoided due to environmental concerns and respect for the fallen.
Dress respectfully and comfortably. Hawaii can be hot and humid, so light clothing is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be on your feet a lot.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but there are restrictions within the USS Arizona Memorial shrine room. Always be mindful of the solemn nature of the site.
While clear bags are allowed, large camera bags are not. You can typically wear your camera around your neck. Check the NPS website for the most up-to-date regulations.
The USS Arizona Memorial offers poignant views. The Battleship Missouri Memorial provides expansive decks for photography. The grounds themselves offer many historical markers and viewpoints.
Yes, phones are generally permitted for photos and videos, but be respectful and avoid disruptive use, especially at the USS Arizona Memorial.
No, drone usage is strictly prohibited at Pearl Harbor National Memorial due to its status as an active military installation and a memorial site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
✈️ Day-Trippers from Other Islands
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the USS Arizona Memorial Experience
Reservations are crucial for the USS Arizona Memorial. While the tickets are free, a small $1 reservation fee is charged, and they are highly sought after. It's recommended to book these online via recreation.gov as soon as they become available, typically 30 days in advance, or try for same-day standby tickets. Arriving early for standby is key, as spots are limited.
Upon arrival at the memorial, visitors are given about 15 minutes to quietly reflect. The atmosphere is deeply moving, with many visitors feeling the profound weight of history and sacrifice. The 'black tears' of oil that still seep from the Arizona are a constant, poignant reminder of the tragedy.
Exploring the Other Historic Sites
The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum houses a remarkable collection of aircraft, many of which were present during the attack or played crucial roles in the war. The museum is located in a hangar that still bears bullet holes from the attack, offering a tangible connection to the past.
For a different view of naval warfare, the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum (formerly USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park) allows you to tour the USS Bowfin submarine and learn about the vital role submarines played in the Pacific theater.
Practicalities: Bags, Parking, and Timing
Parking is available at the Visitor Center for a fee, typically around $7. It's advisable to arrive early, especially if you plan to utilize the standby list for the USS Arizona Memorial, as parking can fill up.
Regarding timing, many visitors suggest dedicating at least half a day to the USS Arizona Memorial and Visitor Center museums. If you plan to visit the Battleship Missouri, Aviation Museum, and Submarine Museum, a full day is recommended.
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