Pearl Harbor National Memorial

The Basics

Pearl Harbor is made up of both the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, which includes the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Utah, and USS Oklahoma, as well as the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, including the USS Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum (formerly the Pacific Aviation Museum). Most tours include just a selection of the many sites; others combine some Pearl Harbor sites with stops at other attractions on Oahu.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Pearl Harbor Memorial sites can be very crowded; book your ticket or tour in advance and opt for skip-the-line entry.

• The various memorials each require their own admissions passes; choose a tour or a combination ticket that includes your preferred sites.

• Pearl Harbor is still an active naval base, and visitors are subject to security measures.

• The Pearl Harbor Memorial is wheelchair accessible.

• There is free on-site parking.

How to Get There

Pearl Harbor is located on Oahu's south coast, about 12 miles (20 kilometers) northwest of Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. To reach the memorial from downtown, take HI-99 west to Arizona Memorial Pl. Shuttles are also available from Honolulu and Waikiki, and some tours provide transportation from other islands.

When to Get There

The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is open daily from morning to early evening except on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. The memorials keep separate hours but are generally open from morning until early evening. Pearl Harbor is popular all year, but the busiest seasons are during spring break and summer and winter holidays. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and leave plenty of time to see the various sites.

USS Arizona Memorial

The site of the largest number of casualties (1,177 crewmen), the USS Arizona Memorial is the best-known site in Pearl Harbor. The white structure floats over the site of the sunken battleship and is a place of quiet reflection. Tours start at the visitor center, where you’ll watch a film before boarding a shuttle boat to the memorial. Tickets are free but required, as the number of guests allowed in the memorial each day is strictly limited.

What is the best way to see the Pearl Harbor Memorial?

The best way to experience the Pearl Harbor Memorial is by visiting the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Reserve tickets in advance to ensure entry, arrive early, and take the guided tour for in-depth insights. Exploring the museums and exhibits adds context to the historical significance of the site.

Can you visit Pearl Harbor Memorial without a tour?

Yes. Visiting Pearl Harbor National Memorial independently allows you to explore at your own pace. It's free to visit and wander around the visitor center, so take your time to learn the site’s history through the exhibits and memorial theater.

How long do you need at Pearl Harbor Memorial?

Plan for an hour or two to see the main exhibits and pay your respects at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. However, if you also plan to add a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, and other memorials, then you'll want to allow a full day.

Is there a dress code for Pearl Harbor memorial?

No, there's no official dress code, but the site is a memorial—a place of solemnity and reflection. It's only fitting that you dress in a manner that reflects the gravity of the occasion, so choosing attire that's modest and respectful is appreciated.

What is the best day to go to Pearl Harbor memorial?

Weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be less crowded at the Pearl Harbor Memorial. Arriving early in the morning enhances your chances of securing tickets and experiencing the site with fewer visitors. Visiting on December 7—the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor—is an extra poignant way to experience the attraction.

Is Pearl Harbor National Memorial accessible?

Yes, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is an accessible site. With no hills or steep stairs, the entire area is welcoming to those with limited mobility. There are also wheelchair locks on the boats that transfer visitors back and forth to the memorial.

Ways to explore

Pearl Harbor is made up of both the Pearl Harbor National Memorial—which includes the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Utah, and the USS Oklahoma—as well as the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, including the USS Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum (formerly the Pacific Aviation Museum).

Most tours include just a selection of the many sites, while others combine Pearl Harbor with stops at other attractions on Oahu. The various memorials each require their own admission passes—choose a tour or a combination ticket that includes your preferred attractions.

Accessibility

The site is wheelchair-accessible, but wheelchairs are not available to rent.

Age limits

None, though some areas don’t accommodate strollers

What to pack

Sunscreen and water, as Oahu often experiences sunny, warm weather

What to wear

Clothes appropriate to the solemn nature of the site

Not allowed

Large luggage, beverages other than water inside the museums

Amenities

Luggage storage (for a fee), snack bar, water fountains

Address

Pearl Harbor is located on Oahu’s south coast, about 12 miles (20 kilometers) northwest of Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. Shuttles are also available from Honolulu and Waikiki, and some tours provide transportation from other islands.

Driving

To reach the memorial from downtown, take HI-99 west to Arizona Memorial Place.

Public transportation

From Honolulu, take the number 40 bus for 30 minutes to Kamehameha Hwy + Kalaloa Street, from which the memorial entrance is just a 5-minute walk.

Best times to visit

Visit in the morning to beat the crowds and midday heat.

Best days to visit

Pearl Harbor is open every day of the week, though Monday–Thursday see fewer crowds. The site is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Best months to visit

Visit outside of the peak hurricane month in August, as the outdoor site is subject to closure in inclement weather.

Special events

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day takes place every year on December 7, with commemorative events that draw thousands of visitors.