Oahu Activity Guide
Pearl Harbor Visitor Guide
Pearl Harbor is the most visited historic site in the United States and the single most important stop on any first visit to Oahu. Here's everything you need to know before you go.
Distance from Waikiki
12 miles west (20–30 min)
Time needed
3–4 hrs minimum, full day for all sites
Best time to arrive
8–9 AM to beat the crowds
What to See at Pearl Harbor
USS Arizona Memorial
Must-SeeFree (boat tour: free) · 1–1.5 hours
The emotional centerpiece of Pearl Harbor. A white marble structure built directly over the sunken USS Arizona, where 1,177 sailors remain entombed. The experience includes a 23-minute documentary film and a boat ride to the memorial itself. Deeply moving and unlike anything else in Hawaii.
Tip
Reserve your spot online at recreation.gov as soon as your dates are set. Tickets release 60 days out and go fast, especially in summer.
Battleship USS Missouri
Must-See$39 adults / $20 ages 4–12 · 1.5–2 hours
The battleship where Japan formally surrendered on September 2, 1945, ending World War II. You can stand on the exact spot where the surrender documents were signed. Self-guided tours cover the massive gun turrets, crew quarters, and the surrender deck. One of the most historically significant ships in the world.
Tip
The Mighty Mo is docked at Ford Island, directly across from the Arizona Memorial. Buy a combo ticket with the Aviation Museum to save.
Pacific Aviation Museum
$30 adults / $20 ages 4–12 · 1.5–2 hours
Housed inside an original WWII hangar that still bears bullet holes from the December 7 attack. Features WWII aircraft, a flight simulator, and exhibits covering both Pearl Harbor and the broader Pacific air war. Excellent for aviation enthusiasts and families with older kids.
Tip
The flight simulator ($10 extra) is popular with kids and worth the add-on. Plan for 90 minutes minimum.
USS Bowfin Submarine
$27 adults / $14 ages 4–12 · 45–60 minutes
A WWII-era submarine nicknamed the 'Pearl Harbor Avenger' for its combat record. You can walk through the actual sub and see crew sleeping quarters, the torpedo room, and the control room. Tight spaces make it less suitable for young children or claustrophobic visitors.
Tip
Children under 4 are not admitted inside the submarine. Skip if you have very young kids or are short on time.
Planning Your Visit
Book the Arizona Memorial first
Reserve your free boat tour at recreation.gov the moment your dates are confirmed. It sells out weeks in advance during peak season.
Arrive by 8 AM
Pearl Harbor gets crowded by mid-morning. An early arrival means shorter waits, cooler temperatures, and more time to explore.
Leave big bags behind
Backpacks and large bags are not allowed past the security checkpoint. There is paid bag storage on-site, but it's easier to leave them in the car.
Budget $50–$100 per person
The Arizona boat tour is free. Each additional site (Missouri, Aviation Museum, Bowfin) runs $27–$39. A combo ticket for Missouri and the Aviation Museum saves money.
Combine with Waikiki or Aloha Stadium
Pearl Harbor is on the west side of Honolulu. Pair with the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet (weekends) or head back via the H-1 for easy Waikiki access.
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking on the Missouri's steel decks and standing for the documentary film. Skip flip-flops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pearl Harbor free to visit?
The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and USS Arizona Memorial boat tour are free, but require an online reservation. The USS Missouri ($39), Pacific Aviation Museum ($30), and USS Bowfin Submarine ($27) are separate paid attractions. Most visitors spend $50–$100 per person when combining multiple sites.
How long should I spend at Pearl Harbor?
Plan at least 3–4 hours for the USS Arizona Memorial plus one additional attraction. If you want to visit all four sites (Arizona, Missouri, Aviation Museum, Bowfin), plan a full day of 6–7 hours. The Arizona Memorial alone takes about 2–3 hours including wait time, film, and the boat tour.
Do I need to book Pearl Harbor tickets in advance?
Yes. The USS Arizona Memorial boat tour is free but requires advance reservation at recreation.gov. Tickets release 60 days in advance and sell out weeks ahead in peak season (June–August, holidays). The paid attractions (Missouri, Aviation Museum, Bowfin) can usually be purchased same-day, but booking ahead guarantees entry and can save time.
How do I get to Pearl Harbor from Waikiki?
Pearl Harbor is about 12 miles west of Waikiki, roughly 20–30 minutes by car. Parking is available at the visitor center ($15/day). TheBus Route 42 runs from downtown Honolulu near Waikiki and takes about 40 minutes. Uber/Lyft from Waikiki runs $25–$40 each way.
What should I not bring to Pearl Harbor?
Bags larger than a small purse are prohibited inside the memorial area, including backpacks, camera bags, and diaper bags. There is a paid bag storage facility on-site ($5–$10). Leave large bags in your car or hotel. Cameras and phones are fine.
Is Pearl Harbor appropriate for young children?
The USS Arizona Memorial is appropriate for all ages, though the documentary film and somber tone may be intense for very young children. The USS Missouri and Aviation Museum are excellent for kids of all ages. The Bowfin Submarine does not admit children under 4 due to tight spaces.
Add Pearl Harbor to Your Oahu Itinerary
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