Return to a defining moment in World War II history with a visit to Pearl Harbor, where courage, resilience and sacrifice are honored and remembered.

Aerial of the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor historic sites on Oʻahu.
An aerial view over the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. Credit: Ryan Tishken

If you are interested in how the events of 7 December 1941 in Hawaiʻi influenced modern military history, a trip to Pearl Harbor provides an insightful journey through the past.

From paying respects at memorials to stepping aboard a submarine, touring a mighty battleship or admiring vintage aircraft, there’s something to engage every interest.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Pearl Harbor.

Table of Contents

About Pearl Harbor

Aerial view of Pearl Harbor National Memorial.
The Pearl Harbor area as seen on approach to Honolulu Airport.

Pearl Harbor, located on the island of Oʻahu and known to Native Hawaiians as Puʻuloa, is a natural harbor valued for its sheltered, deep waters. It is a special place to Hawaiians, home of the shark goddess Kaʻahupahau and her brother Kahiʻukā.

Recognizing its military potential, the U.S. Navy negotiated harbor rights from the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi in 1887. After the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy and Hawaiʻi’s annexation, Pearl Harbor became a central U.S. naval base.

On 7 December 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, killing over 2,400 Americans and damaging or destroying several battleships. This attack propelled the United States into World War II.

After the war, Pearl Harbor remained a U.S. naval outpost and evolved into a landmark to honor the lives lost. The USS Arizona was declared a national shrine, and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial was established to preserve its history.

Today, Pearl Harbor is an active military base and a collection of Historic Sites. Visitors can explore memorials, a submarine, battleships, museums and exhibits for a closer look at the historic events that left a lasting mark on the world.

Photos of Pearl Harbor

Signage illustrating a map of Pearl Harbor on the morning of the Japanese attack on 7 December 1941.
[1/23] SIGNAGE: The Pearl Harbor National Memorial commemorates the events that took place on 7 December 1941. This map depicts Pearl Harbor on the morning of the Japanese attack, showing over 185 ships and service craft moored in the harbor. Album Credit: Bryan Shelmon
The Lone Sailor, a statue at Pearl Harbor National Memorial.
[2/23] STATUE: The grounds at Pearl Harbor feature educational and reflective memorial spaces. The Lone Sailor statue is a symbol of the Navy’s mission to honor, recognize and celebrate the men and women of the sea services, past, present and future.
Inside the "Road to War" museum exhibit gallery at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
[3/23] MUSEUMS: The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center features two museums: Road to War (pictured) and Attack. These exhibit galleries provide an in-depth exploration of the events leading up to the attack on Oʻahu and its lasting consequences.
Inside the "Road to War" museum exhibit gallery at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
[4/23] MUSEUMS: The Road to War (pictured) and Attack museums include personal belongings, photographs and battle artifacts. Interactive kiosks provide firsthand accounts, enhancing your understanding of Pearl Harbor's significant impact.
The Attack museum at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
[5/23] MUSEUMS: The Attack museum provides a comprehensive look at the events of the attack, with a focus on the USS Arizona battleship and the USS Arizona Memorial. A standout feature is its intricate model of the USS Arizona Memorial.
Inside the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater.
[6/23] THEATER: Located across from the museums, the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater features a compelling 23-minute documentary that brings the events of 7 December 1941 to life, with free screenings every 15 and 45 minutes.
The USS Missouri and USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor.
[7/23] PEARL HARBOR: The USS Arizona (right) signifies America’s entry into WWII, while the USS Missouri docked at Fort Island (left) marks its conclusion with Japan’s surrender, signed on its deck in Tokyo Bay on 2 September 1945.
The Navy-operated shuttle boat that transports passengers to the USS Arizona Memorial.
[8/23] SHUTTLE BOAT: Tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial Program require advance reservations. The 45-minute program includes a brief introduction, a Navy-operated shuttle boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial and time to experience the memorial itself.
The USS Arizona Memorial, site of the sunken USS Arizona battleship at Pearl Harbor.
[9/23] USS ARIZONA MEMORIAL: The USS Arizona Memorial is the most iconic landmark of Pearl Harbor. It is positioned above the sunken USS Arizona battleship, where 1,170 sailors and marines tragically lost their lives and remain entombed.
Inside the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor.
[10/23] USS ARIZONA MEMORIAL: As the final resting place of many USS Arizona crew, the memorial is a solemn site where visitors should remain quiet and respectful while viewing the ship’s remains beneath the water.
The shrine room, part of the USS Arizona Memorial.
[11/23] USS ARIZONA MEMORIAL: The shrine room serves as a poignant tribute, engraved with the names of the crew and civilians aboard the battleship on December 7, 1941. This sacred space honors their sacrifice and the lives lost.
The Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum near the USS Bowfin at Pearl Harbor National Memorial.
[12/23] PACIFIC FLEET SUBMARINE MUSEUM: This museum showcases the history of U.S. submarines, featuring exhibits on World War II missions, Cold War advancements and the restored USS Bowfin. General admission fees apply.
The USS Bowfin submarine at the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum.
[13/23] USS BOWFIN: This World War II submarine, nicknamed the "Pearl Harbor Avenger," is the centerpiece of the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. Visitors can explore its interior to see firsthand the conditions faced by its 80 crew members.
Inside the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum with replica interior and bombs.
[14/23] USS BOWFIN: Self-guided tours of the submarine's interior highlight life aboard this historic vessel. They typically take 1.5 to 2 hours, offering a look at the crew’s quarters, torpedo rooms, engine rooms and control center.
The Waterfront Memorial at Pearl Harbor National Memorial.
[15/23] WATERFRONT MEMORIAL: Located near the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, the Waterfront Memorial honors the crews of 52 U.S. submarines lost during World War II, with each marker bearing the names of fallen sailors.
Entrance of the Battleship Missouri Memorial with pathway lined with American flags and the ship in the background at Pearl Harbor.
[16/23] BATTLESHIP MISSOURI MEMORIAL: Explore the USS Missouri, the last U.S. battleship ever built and the world’s last active battleship. Located on Ford Island at Pearl Harbor, it’s accessible via a shuttle service from the Visitor Center.
The main deck on the USS Missouri, in front of of three massive 60-foot turrets.
[17/23] USS MISSOURI: The USS Missouri played a pivotal role in World War II as the site of Japan's formal surrender in 1945, officially ending the war. Now a floating museum, the battleship invites visitors to explore its decks and crew quarters.
Inside the Battleship Missouri Memorial at Pearl Harbor
[18/23] USS MISSOURI: Below the decks of the USS Missouri, explore the crew’s quarters, mess hall (pictured), engine rooms, medical bay, brig and so much more, offering a fascinating glimpse into life aboard this historic battleship.
The Pacific Aviation Museum.
[19/23] AVIATION MUSEUM: Enhance your Pearl Harbor visit at the Aviation Museum on Ford Island (an active military base). It showcases around 50 aircraft across Hangars 37 and 79. Guided Hangar Tours are available or explore at leisure.
Fighter plane displayed inside the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
[20/23] AVIATION MUSEUM: Hangar 37 showcases WWII-era bombers, fighter planes, transport and attack helicopters and trainer aircraft, offering an glimpse into aviation history. Here, you can add-on a Fighter Ace 360° Flight Simulator experience.
Hangar 79 at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum on Ford Island.
[21/23] AVIATION MUSEUM: Walk the airfield grounds lined with more aircraft from different eras before reaching the second exhibition hall at Hangar 79. This hangar showcases aircraft used during later wars — the Korean War, Vietnam War and Gulf Wars.
The Ford Island Control Tower at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
[22/23] CONTROL TOWER: Built in 1941, the Ford Island Control Tower played a pivotal role during WWII as an air traffic and communication hub. Today, it hosts a Top of the Tower Tour — an add-on activity at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
Top of the Tower Tour at Pearl Harbor Aviation. Museum.
[23/23] CONTROL TOWER: The Top of the Tower Tour takes you 168ft (51m) up in the original restored elevator to an observation deck for 360° views, where docents recount the events of 7 December 1941 from this unique vantage point.

Top Pearl Harbor Tours

Pearl Harbor features four distinct Historic Sites around the harbor, each operated independently:

  1. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
  2. Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
  3. Battleship Missouri Memorial
  4. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

For detailed information on each attraction, see our Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Explained section. Visitors can explore one, two, three or all four sites based on their interests and time.

Planning a visit to Pearl Harbor requires some research and organization, but this article will help guide you through it.

Alternatively, booking a Pearl Harbor tour provides a convenient and hassle-free way to experience everything this destination has to offer.

Main ways to visit Pearl Harbor:

To simplify your Pearl Harbor trip, we’ve curated the top tours in each category and highlighted why they’re worth considering, plus included the best steps for independent exploration to help you plan a seamless visit on your own.

INSIDE TIP: Escorted tours are not allowed within Pearl Harbor National Memorial including on the USS Arizona Memorial. When you book a tour, keep in mind that guides can provide commentary during the transportation part of your trip. However, once on-site, they usually offer an orientation, help with logistics and wait for you, rather than providing continuous narration throughout the day.

Pearl Harbor Half-Day Tours

These tours typically focus on the USS Arizona Memorial and may include one additional attraction, with roundtrip transport included.

Our Top Picks
for Half-Day Pearl Harbor Tours 👇🏻
  • Pearl Harbor City Tour: This is a great option if you’re looking for a quick, easy and affordable tour to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, with a focus on the USS Arizona Memorial Program. You’ll be picked up in a double-decker bus and enjoy a guided tour through Downtown Honolulu enroute to Pearl Harbor, with plenty of historical insights along the way. The tour lasts 5 hours, departs Waikīkī at 11am and has a max. group size of 70 travelers.
  • Pearl Harbor with USS Arizona & Hawaiian Kingdom History Tour: For a smaller group of up to 24 passengers, this van tour centers on the USS Arizona Memorial Program. We love that it also passes by key Hawaiian landmarks on the return trip, including ʻIolani Palace, the King Kamehameha Statue, Hawaiʻi State Capitol and Kawaiaha’o Church. The tour lasts 5 hours, departs Waikīkī at 8am or 11am and has a max. group size of 24 travelers.
  • Pearl Harbor USS Arizona & Bowfin Submarine: If you’re interested in exploring the story of Pearl Harbor in greater depth, this tour includes visits to two major attractions: the USS Arizona Memorial and the nearby Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. You’ll also have the opportunity to go inside the USS Bowfin, a wartime submarine. The tour lasts 6 hours, departs Waikīkī at 8:30am and has a max. group size of 24 travelers.

INSIDE TIP: Tour operators follow the same procedures as individual visitors when it comes to securing tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial. While they do try to reserve tickets in advance, guests may need to join the standby line on the day of the tour. This means that obtaining a memorial ticket is never 100% guaranteed unless you make the reservation yourself. Tour operators will do their best to assist you, but boat rides to the memorial may be suspended due to weather, mechanical issues or other factors. Regardless, there are plenty of experiences to enjoy at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial outside of the USS Arizona Memorial program.

Pearl Harbor Full-Day Tours

Designed for a comprehensive experience, these tours visit two to four historic Pearl Harbor sites at a relaxed pace, with return transport included.

Our Top Picks
for Full-Day Pearl Harbor Tours 👇🏻
  • Premium Pearl Harbor Small Group Tour with Lunch: This excursion visits two iconic sites: the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Memorial. On the way back, you’ll pass the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, where many WWII veterans are laid to rest. The trip also includes a slice of banana bread and lunch. The tour lasts 8.5 hours, departs Waikīkī at 6:45am and has a max. group size of 24 travelers.
  • WWII Pearl Harbor Heroes Deluxe Tour: This tour is one of the longest and most extensive, covering all four historic sites. Immerse yourself in World War II history at the USS Arizona Memorial, Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, Battleship Missouri Memorial and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Lunch and all admission fees are included. The tour lasts 9.5 hours, departs Waikīkī at 6:45am and has a max. group size of 52 travelers.

Pearl Harbor Private Tours

For a personalized experience, private tours offer a flexible itinerary tailored to your specific interests at Pearl Harbor.

Our Top Picks
for Private Pearl Harbor Tours 👇🏻
  • #1 Private Limousine Tour – USS Arizona & Historic Honolulu: For a unique and intimate Pearl Harbor experience, Kawika Joe’s Limousine Hawaii offers a private tour in a spacious limousine for up to 6 people. This VIP tour allows ample time to explore the USS Arizona Memorial and hear stories that you won’t find in history books. The tour lasts 5 hours, departs Waikīkī at 9am and only your group will participate.
  • Passport to Pearl Harbor: See the best of Pearl Harbor in one day with this “passport” package. Skip queues at the USS Arizona Memorial, Submarine Museum, Battleship Missouri Memorial and Aviation Museum, with private transportation between sites to bypass shuttle waits for a smoother experience. The tour lasts 8 hours, departs Waikīkī at 8am and only your group will participate.

Pearl Harbor Combination Tours

Maximize your day on Oʻahu by pairing a powerful visit to Pearl Harbor’s historic sites with an escorted circle island tour.

Our Top Picks
for Pearl Harbor Combo Tours 👇🏻
  • Pearl Harbor & Mini Circle Island Tour from Waikiki: Explore the island’s top attractions on this combination tour, featuring the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts, Oʻahu’s North Shore and the Dole Plantation. Be sure to try the famous garlic shrimp at a local truck (additional cost). The tour lasts 9-10 hours, departs Waikīkī at 7am and has a max. group size of 20 travelers.
  • Private Oahu Pearl Harbor and Island Sightseeing Combination Tour: This private Oʻahu sightseeing tour provides a spacious van and driver, letting you customize your adventure. Whether exploring Pearl Harbor, hiking, swimming or shopping, your guide will tailor the experience. Choose from a half, full, or long day tour for up to 10 people. The tour lasts 6 to 12 hours, departs Waikīkī at 6am and only your group will participate.

Pearl Harbor Independent Exploration

Ideal for budget-conscious and independent travelers, a self-guided visit allows you to explore Pearl Harbor at your own pace.

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial serves as the main visitor center, providing an in-depth overview of the 7 December 1941 events and is the starting point for all four historic sites.

  • Short on time (2-4 hours): Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, join the USS Arizona Memorial Program (reservations are required), and if time allows, explore the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum.
  • Moderate time (4-6 hours): Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, join the USS Arizona Memorial Program (reservations are required), explore the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and take the free shuttle to Ford Island to tour either the Battleship Missouri Memorial or the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
  • Plenty of time (6+ hours): Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, join the USS Arizona Memorial Program (reservations are required), explore the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and take the free shuttle to Ford Island to tour the Battleship Missouri Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
  • Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday: If you’re visiting Pearl Harbor on these days, you can add-on the Ford Island Bus Tour, which departs the Visitor Center at 3pm for a guided excursion to the USS Oklahoma and USS Utah Memorials (reservations are required).

Below, we dive into the details of each site to help you decide how to make the most of your visit.

Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Explained

The Pearl Harbor Historic Sites encompass four separate attractions around the harbor, each independently operated:

  1. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
  2. Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
  3. Battleship Missouri Memorial
  4. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

Each site offers a unique perspective on the history of Pearl Harbor, from the attack to the broader events of World War II.

1. Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Aerial view of the USS Arizona Memorial and boat transfer at Pearl Harbor.
Aerial view of the USS Arizona Memorial and boat ride. Credit: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson

The National Memorial, overseen by the National Park Service, is your gateway to Pearl Harbor. It provides visitor parking, bag storage, tourist information and ticket sales. It’s also the free shuttle departure point to Ford Island attractions.

This site focuses on the USS Arizona Memorial Program (reservations are required). Arrive at least one to two hours before your scheduled program time to check in at the Ticket Validation Desk, watch the Memorial Theater film and explore the Visitor Center and National Memorial grounds. Timeliness is important, as late arrivals may forfeit their reservation to those in the standby line.

The USS Arizona Memorial Program includes a roundtrip boat ride to the memorial, with time to explore the monument. Built above the sunken USS Arizona, it honors those lost in the attack, including over 1,000 crew members still entombed.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial is free to visit and includes:

  • Visitor Center: Two museums (Road to War and Attack), a bookstore and snack shop.
  • Outdoor Displays: See exhibits like the Remembrance Circle.
  • Memorial Theater: A 23-minute film plays every 15 and 45 minutes past the hour.
  • USS Arizona Memorial Program: A free 45-minute tour including a roundtrip boat ride and time at the memorial (reservations are required). Operates daily every 15 minutes from 8am-12pm and 1-3:30pm, with a boat capacity of around 150 passengers.
  • Free Shuttle: The free shuttle runs on a loop from the Visitor Center to Ford Island (around 15 minutes each way): first stop at Battleship Missouri Memorial, second stop at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and then return. Shuttles leave every 15 to 20 minutes from 8am-4pm daily, with the last shuttle leaving the USS Missouri at 4:05pm and Aviation Museum at 5pm.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial paid upgrades:

  • Audio Tours: Self-guided narrated tours with 15, 23 or 28 stops (30 to 90 minutes). Buy tickets online or on-site, depending on availability.
  • Ford Island Bus Tour: Guided access to the USS Oklahoma and USS Utah Memorials, available on Mon, Wed and Fri at 3pm (reservations are required).

2. Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum

The Waterfront Memorial and USS Bowfin submarine at Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum at Pearl Harbor.
The Waterfront Memorial and USS Bowfin submarine at Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. Credit: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson

The Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum (formerly the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park), run by the Pacific Fleet Submarine Memorial Association, chronicles the U.S. Navy Submarine Force and showcases submarine technology.

Conveniently located near the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, the Submarine Museum’s standout feature is the USS Bowfin submarine. Climb aboard this World War II-era vessel to experience a submariner’s confined life and the challenges crew members face in wartime.

Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum general admission tickets include:

  • USS Bowfin: The opportunity to explore a historic submarine.
  • Audio Tour: A self-guided narrated tour of the museum, campus and submarine.
  • Submarine Museum: Includes indoor and outdoor exhibits, a gift shop and food truck.
  • Waterfront Memorial: A collection of 52 monuments honoring 52 submarines.

3. Battleship Missouri Memorial

Aerial view of the USS Missouri Memorial.
An aerial view of the USS Missouri Memorial and the USS Missouri battleship in Pearl Harbor.

Operated by the USS Missouri Memorial Association, the Battleship Missouri Memorial invites visitors to experience the grandeur of the iconic “Mighty Mo” battleship, either on self-guided or guided tours. Stand on the historic Surrender Deck where the treaty ending World War II was signed, explore the living quarters, and delve into its rich wartime history.

The Battleship Missouri Memorial on Ford Island is reached by a free shuttle that loops between the Visitor Center, USS Missouri and Aviation Museum every 15 to 20 minutes from 8am-4pm. The last shuttle from the Battleship Missouri Memorial to the Visitor Center leaves at 4:05pm.

Battleship Missouri Memorial general admission tickets include:

  • USS Missouri: The chance to explore a battleship on a guided tour or by yourself.
  • Guided Tour: A 35-minute tour of the battleship by a knowledgeable guide.
  • Explore On Your Own: Use a digital tour map and signs on the ship to self-tour.

Battleship Missouri Memorial paid upgrades:

  • Captain’s Tour: A 45-minute guided tour exploring the Captain’s command operations aboard the USS Missouri, including the Wardroom, Radio Central and the luxurious in-port cabin. Departs daily at 10:00am, 12:15pm and 2:30pm. Buy tickets online or on-site, depending on availability.
  • Chief Engineer’s Tour: A 60-minute guided tour delving into the power and mechanics of the USS Missouri, highlighting the Chief Engineer’s role while visiting Fire Room #4, Engine Room #4 and the aft plotting room. Departs daily at 8:45am, 11am and 1:15pm. Buy tickets online or on-site, depending on availability.

4. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

The non-profit organization Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum houses 50 restored aircraft in two historic WWII-era hangars. On self-guided or guided tours, you can view Japanese planes from the Pearl Harbor attack, U.S. retaliation aircraft and various bombers, fighters and helicopters. Enhance your visit with a flight simulator activity or ascend the Ford Island Control Tower.

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum on Ford Island is reached by a free shuttle that loops between the Visitor Center, USS Missouri and Aviation Museum every 15 to 20 minutes from 8am-4pm. The last shuttle from the Aviation Museum to the Visitor Center leaves at 5pm.

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum general admission tickets include:

  • Hangars 37 & 79: Access to WWII-era hangars with 50+ aircraft and exhibits.
  • Audio Tour: Self-guided tour of hangars and outdoor exhibits with an audio wand.
  • Outdoor Exhibits: View a collection of airplanes and half a dozen helicopters.
  • Museum Store: Shop aviation-themed items between 10am-5pm.
  • Hangar Café: WWII-themed café serving all-American meals from 11am-3pm.

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum paid upgrades:

  • Guided Hangar Tour: A 60-minute docent led tour of hangars, outdoor exhibits and the aircraft restoration shop. Available daily at 10:00am, 11:30am, 1:00pm and 2:30pm. Buy tickets online or on-site, depending on availability.
  • Flight Simulator: A two-seat 360° flight simulator that performs rolls, spins, somersaults and loops. A limited 150 tickets are available daily (first-come, first-served).
  • Top of the Tower Tour: A 20-40 minute guided tour taking you up the 168ft (52m) Ford Island Control Tower. From the observation deck, enjoy 360° views of Pearl Harbor, including the USS Arizona Memorial, as docents share powerful stories of the attack. Buy tickets online or on-site, depending on availability.
  • Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust Library & Archive: A library housing 23,000 books and WWII archives, open by appointment only from Monday to Friday from 10am-3pm.

Pearl Harbor Prices

Here’s a quick price guideline for Pearl Harbor attractions to help with your planning. Prices are as of January 2025 and are subject to change.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

  • General Admission: FREE
  • USS Arizona Memorial: FREE + $1 reservation fee
  • Audio Tours: $10-28/$7-10 (Adult/Child)
  • Virtual Reality Tours: $7.50-11.50/$5.50-8.50 (Adult/Child)
  • Audio & Virtual Reality Combo: $34.99/$24.99 (Adult/Child)
  • Ford Island Bus Tour: FREE + $1 reservation fee
  • Visitor Center to Ford Island Shuttle: FREE

Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum

  • General Admission: $25.99/$15.99 (Adult/Child)

Battleship Missouri Memorial

  • General Admission: $39.99/$20.99 (Adult/Child)
  • Captain’s Tour: $32 (Person)
  • Chief Engineer’s Tour: $32 (Person)

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

  • General Admission: $29.99/$17.99 (Adult/Child)
  • Guided Hangar Tour: $10.99 (Person)
  • Flight Simulator: $10.99-21.99 (Person)
  • Top of the Tower Tour: $21.99 (Person)

How to Book Pearl Harbor

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is one of Oʻahu’s top attractions, drawing over 1.5 million visitors annually to honor and remember those who served.

The USS Arizona Memorial Program (offered Mon-Sun every 15-minutes from 8am-12pm and 1-3:30pm) and the Ford Island Bus Tour (available Mon, Wed and Fri at 3pm) are the only Pearl Harbor attractions requiring advance reservations. Limited standby tickets are available, but aren’t guaranteed.

General admission tickets for the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, Battleship Missouri Memorial and Aviation Museum can be purchased online in advance or on-site.

Add-on experiences, such as audio tours, virtual reality tours and upgraded guided tours, are available on-site, but booking online ahead of time guarantees your spot.

How to Reserve USS Arizona Memorial Program Tickets

  1. USS Arizona Memorial Program tickets are free but must be reserved online at recreation.gov for a $1 reservation fee.
  2. Tickets are released daily at 3pm HST (Hawaiʻi Standard Time) in two booking windows: 8 weeks in advance and 24 hours before your visit. Mark your calendar and set a reminder to secure tickets as soon as they’re available.
  3. Set up or log in to your account on recreation.gov, so you can to check availability, make reservations and set alerts.
  4. Once logged in to your account on recreation.gov, search for USS Arizona Memorial.
  5. Once tickets have been released for your date, enter your required ticket Quantity (up to 10 tickets).
  6. Select your preferred Date and check ticket status: NR [Not Released Yet] tickets not yet available, [Unavailable] no tickets available, A [Available] tickets can be booked.
  7. Secure Available tickets by selecting the preferred Starting Time (open times in blue).
  8. Select Request Tickets and proceed.
  9. Enter Ticket Holder Details, tick the box to acknowledge Need to Know information and click Proceed to Cart.
  10. Review Cart, add Payment information and process for Confirmation.
  11. Your tickets are confirmed once payment is processed. Printed tickets are not required, the QR codes can be shown.

Know Before You Go

Prepare for your trip to Pearl Harbor with these helpful visitor tips:

  • Reservations: Reservations or tickets are not required to access the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, explore the Visitor Center, visit its museums or walk the grounds. However, advance reservations are required for the USS Arizona Memorial Program and the Ford Island Bus Tour. For detailed information on each attraction, see the How to Book Pearl Harbor section. General admission tickets for the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, Battleship Missouri Memorial and Aviation Museum can be purchased online in advance or on-site. Add-on experiences, such as audio tours, virtual reality tours and upgraded guided tours, are available on-site, but booking online ahead of time guarantees your spot.
  • Check-in: Arrive at least one to two hours before your scheduled USS Arizona Memorial Program time to check in at the Ticket Validation Desk, watch the Memorial Theater film and explore the Visitor Center and National Memorial grounds. Timeliness is important, as late arrivals may forfeit their reservation to those in the standby line.
  • Dress Code: There’s no official dress code for civilians, but Pearl Harbor is a place of honor and an active military base. Wear respectful, modest attire — no swimsuits, profane t-shirts and caps or inappropriate outfits. Smart casual is best. Shirts and shoes are required on the USS Arizona Memorial, and skirts, dresses and high heels are not recommended.
  • Children: Pearl Harbor welcomes visitors of all ages, but everyone, including infants, needs a ticket for the USS Arizona Memorial Program due to safety regulations. Strollers and wagons are allowed except on US Navy vessels or the USS Arizona Memorial. A baby carrier is recommended. The USS Bowfin submarine is open to children over four years old. For the Flight Simulator at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, riders must meet height and weight requirements.
  • Personal Belongings: Bags are prohibited at Pearl Harbor, except clear stadium bags or medical bags (per National Park Service discretion). Bag storage is available for $7 per bag ($10 oversize) at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial entrance. Cameras, phones and wallets are allowed. Please don’t leave valuables in your car.
  • Photography: Cameras and phones are allowed for photography and videography.
  • Facilities: Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and near the USS Bowfin submarine. However, there are no restrooms on the boat or at the USS Arizona Memorial itself. The USS Missouri Memorial has restrooms on the pier and aboard the battleship, while the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum provides restrooms near the Hangar Café.
  • Dining: Food options at Pearl Harbor include the Snack Shop at the National Memorial, Jake’s Street Food (with Submarine Museum admission), Sliders Grill and Wai Momi Shave Ice at the Battleship Missouri and Hangar Café at the Aviation Museum.
  • Free Shuttle: The free shuttle runs on a loop from the Visitor Center to Ford Island (around 15 minutes each way): first stop at Battleship Missouri Memorial, second stop at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and then return. Shuttles leave every 15 to 20 minutes from 8am-4pm daily, with the last shuttle leaving the Battleship Missouri at 4:05pm and the Aviation Museum at 5pm.

How To Get to Pearl Harbor from Waikīkī

📍 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu
🕒 Open:
Daily 7am-5pm: Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Daily 7am-5pm: Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
Daily 8am-3pm: USS Arizona Memorial Program
Daily 8am-4pm: Battleship Missouri Museum
Daily 9am-5pm: Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

Pearl Harbor is located in Honolulu, approximately 13mi (21km) northwest of Waikīkī.

By Car

Pearl Harbor is about a 45-minute drive from Waikīkī Beach, depending on traffic.

Parking at Pearl Harbor

Ample parking is available at Pearl Harbor National Memorial for $7 per day, payable via a mobile app or at the on-site kiosk.

By Rideshare

Uber, Lyft, and Holoholo offer convenient rideshare services from Waikīkī to Pearl Harbor. One-way fares typically range from $40-$55, depending on traffic and demand.

By Taxi

Charley’s Taxi offers metered and discounted flat rates, please book in advance.

By Bus

To travel from Waikīkī to Pearl Harbor by TheBus, board Routes 20 or 42 along Kūhiō Avenue (mountain side) and get off at Stop 477 “Kamehameha Hwy + Kalaloa St,” a 4-minute walk to Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Ensure you’re at a Kūhiō Avenue bus stop serving your chosen route, as not all bus stops accommodate every bus route. A one-way adult fare is $3, payable by cash or HOLO card.

By Shuttle

Hawaii Super Transit offers a roundtrip shuttle between Waikīkī and Pearl Harbor for a flat rate, operating from 6:30am to 4:30pm. This transportation-only service does not include USS Arizona Memorial tickets. While it’s the only shuttle to Pearl Harbor we’re aware of, online reviews are mixed.

Places of Interest Near Pearl Harbor

These attractions and eateries, located within a 15-minute drive of Pearl Harbor, make for convenient additions to your visit:

In summary, plan your visit to Pearl Harbor with confidence using our guide on booking tickets, getting there and making the most of your time.

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Pearl Harbor FAQs

Is the Pearl Harbor worth it?

Yes, Pearl Harbor is worth a visit; it’s one of the most fascinating ways to spend half a day or a full day on Oʻahu. It connects you to pivotal events in Hawaiʻi that shaped global affairs. Standing on the USS Arizona Memorial, where sailors remain entombed, serves as a powerful tribute to their sacrifice. Walking the decks of the USS Missouri offers a rare opportunity to explore the iconic vessel that played a significant role in ending World War II. The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum brings history to life with its collection of restored WWII aircraft, while the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum showcases wartime submarines, including a journey inside the USS Bowfin submarine.

Why did Japan attack Pearl Harbor on Oʻahu?

Japan attacked Pearl Harbor to neutralize the U.S. Pacific Fleet, seeking to secure dominance in Southeast Asia and the Pacific without American interference. However, this strategy underestimated the industrial might of the United States and the long-term repercussions of the attack. Instead, it galvanized the U.S. to fully commit to World War II.

I don’t have a reservation for the USS Arizona Memorial Program. Can I still visit?

Yes, you may still have a chance to visit the USS Arizona Memorial without a reservation. Limited standby tickets are available daily but are not guaranteed. Check with the Ticket Validation Desk or inform a Ranger that you’d like to stand by for the program. The gates open at 7am, with the program starting at 8am, and most standby visitors arrive early to secure a spot. However, many no-shows occur in the afternoon, particularly after 1:30pm, increasing your chances later in the day. Even without a reservation, you can explore other experiences at Pearl Harbor, including the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, Battleship Missouri Memorial and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

Ashlee & Keliʻi

We’re residents, business owners and superhosts inside Waikīkī’s 96815 zip code. When it comes to enjoying the best of Waikīkī, Honolulu and Oʻahu, we’ve got you covered with all the good stuff you won’t want to miss! Follow travel advice from locals on our Waikīkī Beach Stays website and social media.

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