Pearl Harbor is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, standing at the USS Arizona Memorial — where more than 1,100 sailors and Marines still rest below — is a deeply moving experience that no Oahu vacation should skip.
This guide covers everything you need to know: what’s there, how to get tickets, how to get there from Waikiki, what to bring (and what NOT to bring), and how to make the most of your visit.
What Is Pearl Harbor?
Pearl Harbor is the site of the Japanese surprise attack on December 7, 1941 — the event that brought the United States into World War II. Today, it’s one of America’s most visited historic sites, welcoming over 1.5 million visitors each year.
The site includes four major attractions, each telling a different chapter of the story.
The 4 Attractions at Pearl Harbor
1. USS Arizona Memorial (Free)
This is the emotional heart of Pearl Harbor. A Navy-operated shuttle boat takes you out to the white memorial structure built directly over the sunken USS Arizona. You can look down and see the ship — and the oil that still seeps up from its tanks, often called “the tears of the Arizona.”
The program is free, but a $1 non-refundable reservation fee applies when booking through Recreation.gov. Tickets sell out fast — sometimes within minutes of release.
2. Battleship Missouri Memorial ($38)
The “Mighty Mo” is where Japan formally surrendered on September 2, 1945 — ending World War II. You can walk the decks, see the surrender plaque, and even spot the dent left by a kamikaze attack. It’s a fascinating contrast to the solemnity of the Arizona Memorial.
3. Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum / USS Bowfin ($24)
Known as the “Pearl Harbor Avenger,” the USS Bowfin is a WWII submarine you can actually climb inside. It’s one of the most hands-on experiences at Pearl Harbor, and a hit with kids and adults alike.
4. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum ($30)
Hangars that were strafed during the December 7th attack now house an impressive collection of WWII-era aircraft. If you’re into aviation or military history, this is not to be missed.
Passport to Pearl Harbor ($100)
The Passport bundles admission to the Missouri, Bowfin, and Aviation Museum — saving you $2 compared to buying separately. If you’re planning to visit all three paid attractions, the Passport is the way to go.
How to Get Tickets
USS Arizona Memorial
- Book at Recreation.gov
- Tickets are released daily at 3:00 PM HST — both 24 hours ahead and 8 weeks ahead
- The $1 reservation fee is non-refundable
- Pro tip: Set an alarm for 2:55 PM HST and be ready to click fast. Tickets disappear quickly during peak season (June–August, December)
No Reservation? Try Standby
Walk-up standby is available at the audio tour booth. Give your name, phone number, and party size — you’ll get a text when your number is called. It can work, but it’s not reliable if the Arizona Memorial is your main reason for going.
Other Attractions
The Missouri, Bowfin, and Aviation Museum don’t require advance reservations — you can buy tickets on-site or in advance online.
Best Way to Get There from Waikiki
Pearl Harbor is about 9 miles from Waikiki — roughly 20–40 minutes by car depending on traffic. You have two main options:
Option 1: Book a Tour (Recommended)
This is the easiest and most stress-free way to visit, especially since USS Arizona tickets can be hard to secure on your own. Tours from Waikiki typically include:
- Round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off
- Guaranteed USS Arizona Memorial tickets (no lottery stress)
- A knowledgeable guide to give context to what you’re seeing
Option 2: Drive Yourself
If you have a rental car and managed to snag Arizona tickets on your own, driving is straightforward.
Parking at the visitor center is $7/day, paid via mobile device or onsite kiosk.
What to Expect on the Day
Arrival & Timing
- Visitor Center hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day)
- Arizona Memorial programs: First boat at 8:00 AM, last boat departs at 3:30 PM
- Allow 75–90 minutes for the Arizona Memorial program alone (check-in through return)
- Full visit (all 4 sites): Plan 4–7 hours
The No-Bag Policy — This Is Critical
Pearl Harbor has one of the strictest bag policies you’ll encounter anywhere. No bags, purses, backpacks, fanny packs, or camera bags are allowed inside the secure area. This includes bags of any size that can conceal a fist-sized object.
If you arrive with a bag, you’ll need to check it at the baggage facility near the entrance for $7 per item — and there’s often a line, which eats into your time.
The easiest solution: don’t bring a bag at all. Carry your essentials in your pockets — ID, phone, sunscreen, and water.
What to Bring
- Government-issued photo ID (passport or driver’s license)
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket (some indoor areas are air-conditioned)
- Water (no large bags, so use a small, clear bottle you can carry by hand)
- Cash or card for food (there’s a snack shop at the visitor center, a food truck near the Bowfin, and a restaurant at the Aviation Museum)
Tips for a Better Visit
Go early. The site gets crowded by mid-morning, especially during peak season. Aim to arrive right when it opens at 7:00 AM.
Dress respectfully. Pearl Harbor is a place of remembrance. While there’s no formal dress code, avoid beach attire — shorts and a nice shirt are fine.
Be prepared emotionally. This isn’t a theme park. The Arizona Memorial, in particular, is profoundly sobering. Many visitors find themselves unexpectedly moved.
Don’t rush. Even if you’re only doing the Arizona Memorial, give yourself at least half a day. If you want to see all four sites, make it a full day.
The film matters. A documentary film plays separately from the Arizona Memorial boat program, at :15 and :45 each hour starting at 7:15 AM. It’s worth watching — plan it as its own block.
Ready to Book Your Pearl Harbor Tour?
Skip the ticket stress and logistics — let a guided tour handle it all.
The Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial Tour from Waikiki is one of the most popular tours on Oahu, and for good reason.
Pearl Harbor isn’t just a tourist attraction — it’s one of the most important places in American history. Make time for it.
Planning more of your Oahu trip? Check out our guide to Things to Do in Waikiki for ideas around your home base, or explore the Ko Olina Travel Guide if you’re considering the west side. And if you’re still deciding where to stay, our Waikiki vs Ko Olina breakdown might help.