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Pearl Harbor

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Pearl Harbor, located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, is a place of profound historical significance. Known for the surprise attack on December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor played a pivotal role in World War II and remains a site of remembrance and education today.
Pearl Harbor Travel Guide

Understanding Pearl Harbor's Historical Significance

The Attack on Pearl Harbor

On December 7, 1941, a surprise air attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy devastated Pearl Harbor, leading to the United States' entry into World War II. The attack resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and significant damage to the U.S. Pacific Fleet. This event marked a turning point in global history and is remembered as a day of infamy.

Pearl Harbor Today

Today, Pearl Harbor is preserved as a historic site where visitors can learn about the events of the past and honor those who were affected. Various memorials and museums provide insights into the war and its impact, ensuring that the legacy of Pearl Harbor continues to educate and inspire future generations.

Key Attractions at Pearl Harbor

USS Arizona Memorial

Overview

The USS Arizona Memorial is a somber tribute to the 1,177 sailors and Marines who lost their lives during the attack. It is built over the remains of the sunken battleship USS Arizona, creating a poignant site of reflection.

Visitor Information

  • General Admission: Free
  • Reservations: Strongly encouraged and must be booked through the National Park Service
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 2 hours
  • Operating Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum

Overview

The Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum offers a tour of the WWII submarine USS Bowfin, known as the “Pearl Harbor Avenger.” Visitors can explore the submarine and learn about the life of its 80-man crew during the war.

Visitor Information

  • Admission Fees: Adults $21.99, Children (ages 4-12) $12.99
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 2 hours
  • Operating Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Battleship Missouri Memorial

Overview

The Battleship Missouri Memorial honors the USS Missouri, where Japan’s formal surrender took place, ending World War II. The ship’s historical significance spans five decades, including service in WWII, Korea, and Operation Desert Storm.

Visitor Information

  • Admission Fees: Adults $34.99, Children (ages 4-12) $17.49
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 2 hours
  • Operating Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

Overview

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is located on the site of the December 7 attack. It features exhibits on WWII aviation history, including bullet-riddled hangars and artifacts from the era.

Visitor Information

  • Admission Fees: Adults $25.99, Children (ages 4-12) $14.99
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Operating Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Additional Sites of Interest

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Overview

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial includes several key sites: the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Oklahoma Memorial, and the USS Utah Memorial. The visitor center offers two world-class museums, a film about the attack, and plaques honoring those who lost their lives.

Key Memorials

  • USS Oklahoma Memorial: Honors the 429 crew members who perished.
  • USS Utah Memorial: Commemorates the 58 men who lost their lives on the USS Utah.

Pacific Historic Parks

Overview

Pacific Historic Parks is a non-profit organization that supports Pearl Harbor. They operate the museum store and offer self-guided audio tours and Virtual Reality (VR) experiences that provide deeper insights into the events of December 7, 1941.

Visitor Services

  • Self-Guided Audio Tours: Narrated by Jamie Lee Curtis, covering 29 stops.
  • Virtual Reality Experiences: “Air Raid Pearl Harbor” and “Skies Over Pearl.”

Planning Your Visit to Pearl Harbor

Reservations and Tickets

USS Arizona Memorial Tickets: Must be reserved in advance via the Recreation.gov website.

Additional Tours: Various combinations of site visits are available.

Visitor Tips

  • Best Times to Visit: Early mornings to avoid crowds.
  • Prohibited Items: Purses, backpacks, and other bags are not allowed; storage is available for a fee.
  • Accessibility Information: Most sites are accessible to visitors with disabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best time to visit Pearl Harbor?

Early mornings are recommended to avoid crowds and heat.

How do I reserve tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial?

Tickets can be reserved in advance on the Recreation.gov website.

Are there any guided tours available?

Yes, guided tours are available for most attractions and can enhance your experience.

What items are prohibited at Pearl Harbor?

Bags, including purses and backpacks, are prohibited. Bag storage is available for a fee.

How long should I plan to spend at Pearl Harbor?

Plan to spend at least half a day, or more if you wish to visit all the attractions.

Remembering Pearl Harbor: A Journey Through History

Pearl Harbor is not only a place of historical significance but also a site of deep reflection and learning. Visiting Pearl Harbor allows you to honor the past, understand the profound impact of the events that occurred, and appreciate the resilience and bravery of those who lived through them. Make your visit to Pearl Harbor an unforgettable experience by exploring its memorials and museums, and taking the time to reflect on the sacrifices made for peace and freedom.

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20 Activities Availability varies by date for all activities.
Take a 8-hour guided tour and visit two WWII landmarks, the Arizona Memorial & Battleship Missouri
Includes reserved tickets to the museums and a a 23-minute documentary about December 7, 1941
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
7.5 - 8.5 hour(s)
Daily
Includes admission to Battleship Missouri, Bowfin Submarine, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
USS Arizona Memorial self-guided narrated tour, and Virtual Reality Center tickets included
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
7 - 9 hour(s)
Daily
Have the thrill of a lifetime as you soar over Oahu on an exciting doors-off Hawaii helicopter tour
Take your pick of flights ranging from 20-60 minutes, and a sunset option too
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon / Evening
1.5 - 2 hour(s)
Daily
Immerse yourself in World War II history, and embark on full-day guided Pearl Harbor tour
Visit the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, Bowfin Submarine & Aviation Museum
Pick-up Provided
Meal Provided
Morning
9 - 10 hour(s)
Daily, Wheelchair accessible
Experience the best helicopter tours on Oahu and See the island's most iconic landmarks
Choose your route! 50 and 65 minute flights available daily
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
2 hour(s)
Daily, Wheelchair accessible
Experience the best of Pearl Harbor with the ultimate combo including three activities
Complete with reserved tickets to the Arizona Memorial and film about the attack on Pearl Harbor
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
8.5 - 9.5 hour(s)
Daily
Pre-purchase admission to the USS Battleship Missouri, and explore this historic site
Docents are located throughout the vessel to answer any questions you may have while on-board
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
1.5 hour(s)
Daily
Visit Pearl Harbor's most famous attractions and learn about the history surround WWII
Reserved admission tickets to both the Arizona Memorial & Battleship Missouri are included
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
7 - 7.5 hour(s)
Daily, Wheelchair accessible
An affordable and unforgettable way to experience the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center & Arizona Memorial
Includes pre-booked tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial aboard a Navy shuttle boat
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
5.5 - 6 hour(s)
Daily, Wheelchair accessible
Spend the morning on a 5-tour Pearl Harbor Tour and downtown Honolulu sightseeing
Take a Navy shuttle boat and visit USS Arizona Memorial, admission is included
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
5.5 - 6 hour(s)
Daily
Join Magnum Helicopters on a 50-minute scenic flight over Oahu. See the island's top attractions!
Thrilling doors-OFF flight! No doors in the way for optimal photo and video taking opportunities
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
2 hour(s)
Daily
Take a self-guided tour through the USS Arizona Memorial & learn how the United States entered WWII
Convenient pick-up and drop-off at select Waikiki, Honolulu Cruise Ship Pier & Ko Olina hotels
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
4 - 5.5 hour(s)
Daily
Experience a captivating 60-minute scenic airplane tour for up to 3 passengers!
Soar above Oahu to catch a glimpse of its iconic landmarks and must-see attractions!
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon / Evening
2.5 - 3 hour(s)
Daily
A great half-day tour for Pride of America cruise ship passengers
Board a navy boat shuttle for a tour of the harbor and visit USS Arizona Memorial
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
4.5 - 5 hour(s)
Sat Only, Wheelchair accessible
Soar high into the skies over Oahu & choose from a wide selection of Hawaii's best helicopter tours
Choose from flights ranging from 20-60 minutes, with sunset options available
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon / Evening
1.5 - 2 hour(s)
Daily, Wheelchair accessible
Visit Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and drive by Honolulu's most iconic landmarks (7:00AM departure)
Includes reserved tickets to the Arizona Memorial & a 23-minute documentary about December 7, 1941
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
4.5 - 5.5 hour(s)
Daily
Step into history with a visit to Pearl Harbor and a museum filled with WWII military aircraft
Walk through authentic World War II hangars which are now home to historic artifacts
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon / Evening
2 hour(s)
Daily
The ultimate private tour to Pearl Harbor where you go at your pace
Perfect choice for friends, families, and smaller groups, and great for groups with kids
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
4.5 - 8 hour(s)
Daily
Experience a premium Pearl Harbor tour in a luxury vehicle with an intimate small-group setting
Includes tickets to Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri & the iconic Aviation Museum Control Tower
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
10 - 10.5 hour(s)
Tue / Wed / Fri Only, Wheelchair accessible
Get Roberts Hawaii shuttle to Pearl Harbor! Available daily at 7:45AM and 10:00AM
Board a Navy boat shuttle for a tour of the harbor and visit USS Arizona Memoria
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
4.5 - 5.5 hour(s)
Daily, Wheelchair accessible

Top-Rated Activities for Oahu

Latest reviews of Pearl Harbor

Royal Star Pearl Harbor Guided Tour with Arizona Memorial & Battleship Missouri

An excellent way to see Honolulu, Punchbowl Cemetary, Pearl Harbor and the USS Missouri

2025/03/18 Families Stu

BK was our tour guide and driver. I know now why he was Driver of the Year in 2023. Very knowledgeable on every facet of the tour. It was our first trip to Honolulu and he provided an excellent dialogue on everywhere we... more

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Pearl Harbor Private Guided Tour with Arizona Memorial Tickets & Transportation

Excellent tour and fabulous guide!

2025/03/17 Couples Lana

This was the best tour we’ve ever been on! Marie was fantastic and a wealth of really interesting knowledge! We all learned so much history and she took us to many great sights! Highly recommend Blue Hawaii tours!

Rainbow Helicopters Doors-Off Flight & Air Sightseeing Adventure from Honolulu

Excellent flight

2025/03/01 Friends Cathy

We had a wonderful flight. Exceeded our expectations. One down side was the poor quality video. We notified the company and they very considerately refunded our money! Highly recommend Rainbow Helicopters.

Pearl Harbor Express Shuttle + Arizona Memorial Ticket from Waikiki & Ko Olina

Easy Peasy

2025/02/15 Friends Kara

We loved the ease oahu brought with tours like these where everything is covered for you!

Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, Arizona Memorial, Punchbowl & Honolulu City Tour

Great information

2025/02/15 Couples Kara

the bus guides are great to keep you interested during the ride, making it a full around tour

Royal Star Pearl Harbor Guided Tour with Arizona Memorial & Battleship Missouri

Awesome Pearl Harbor/USS Missouri adventure

2025/02/12 Couples Great historical trip

Pearl Harbor and USS Missouri were a bucket list trip.
Great historical information

Pearl Harbor (Top Hawaii Attractions), Oahu tours & activities, fun things to do in Oahu | HawaiiActivities.com
Pearl Harbor, located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, is a place of profound historical significance. Known for the surprise attack on December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor played a pivotal role in World War II and remains a site of remembrance and education today.