Plan Your Visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial

What Is the Pearl Harbor National Memorial?

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial, formerly known as the USS Arizona Memorial, is a historical site dedicated to honoring the service members who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. It's a place for reflection, education, and remembrance, offering visitors a profound understanding of this pivotal moment in history.

Where Is the Pearl Harbor National Memorial Located?

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is located in Honolulu, Hawaii, at 1 Arizona Memorial Pl.

Getting There:

Public Transportation: The TheBus public transportation system offers several routes that stop near the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Check the latest bus schedules and routes for the most up-to-date information.

By Car: From Honolulu, take H-1 West to Exit 15A (Pearl Harbor/Arizona Memorial). Follow the signs to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arrive early for the best chance of securing a parking spot.

For a seamless trip, visitors can plan their entire journey from flights, hotels, buy Pearl Harbor National Memorial tickets to local transport like car rentals or airport transfers using Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform.

What Is the Best Time to Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial?

Best Day: Weekdays (Monday-Friday) are generally less crowded than weekends.

Best Season: Hawaii enjoys pleasant weather year-round. However, the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) often offer a good balance of fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.

Best Time of Day: Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended. This allows you to avoid the largest crowds and potentially secure tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial program before they run out.

What Are the Top Things to Do at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial?

• USS Arizona Memorial Program: This is the centerpiece of the memorial. A boat tour takes you to the white memorial structure that sits atop the sunken USS Arizona battleship. Reservations are highly recommended.
• Pearl Harbor Visitor Center: Explore the exhibits and museums at the visitor center to learn about the events leading up to the attack, the attack itself, and its aftermath.
• Museums: The Pearl Harbor National Memorial has two museums, the "Road to War" and "Attack" museums, which feature artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts of the events.
• Battleship Missouri Memorial: Tour the "Mighty Mo," where the Instrument of Surrender was signed, officially ending World War II.
• USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park: Explore a World War II submarine and learn about the role of submarines in the Pacific Theater.
• Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor: Discover the history of aviation in the Pacific, with exhibits featuring vintage aircraft and artifacts.

Insider Tips for the Pearl Harbor National Memorial That Most People Don't Know

• Book Your USS Arizona Memorial Tickets in Advance: Tickets are free but required, and they often book up weeks or even months in advance. Reserve them online through Recreation.gov to guarantee your spot.
• Consider the Audio Tour: Enhance your experience with the audio tour, which provides in-depth information and personal stories about the attack and its significance.
• Explore the Shoreline Memorials: Take some time to walk along the shoreline and visit the other memorials dedicated to the ships and lives lost during the attack. These areas are often less crowded and offer a more intimate space for reflection.

How to Prepare for Your Visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial

For Solo Visitors

Take advantage of the audio tour to learn at your own pace. Allow ample time for reflection and contemplation at the various memorials.

For Couples

Plan your visit together, discussing what aspects of the memorial are most important to you. Consider attending a ranger-led program for a shared learning experience.

For Families with Kids

Prepare children for the solemn nature of the site. Focus on the educational aspects of the visit, using age-appropriate language to explain the historical significance. The visitor center offers resources specifically designed for children.

How to Prepare for the Weather While Visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial

For a Hot, Sunny Day

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing. Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply throughout the day. Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

In Case of Rain

Bring a light rain jacket or umbrella. The majority of the memorial is outdoors, so be prepared for potential showers. The visitor center provides some covered areas, but you'll still need to walk between exhibits.