The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
There is no entrance fee to visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial or the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. However, a $1 service charge is collected for reserving tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial program.
From Honolulu, take H-1 West past the airport, exit at Stadium/Aiea, and follow Kamehameha Highway to the historic site, immersed in poignant history and scenic beauty.
Parking at Pearl Harbor National Memorial is $7 per day, with a couple of hundred public spaces available. No overnight parking is allowed. The lots are secured with federal police and surveillance, but valuables should not be left in vehicles. There is no specific mention of RV or motorcycle parking restrictions.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
Pearl Harbor National Memorial, situated on the tranquil shores of Oahu, Hawaii, is a poignant and evocative destination that transcends the typical traveler’s experience. This memorial, a tribute to the lives lost during the December 7, 1941, attack, stands as a solemn reminder of history’s impact on the present.
The memorial’s backdrop is the serene waters of Pearl Harbor, where the USS Arizona Memorial floats above the sunken battleship, a hauntingly beautiful sight. The surrounding Waterfront Park offers a contemplative stroll with interpretive exhibits that bring the tragic day to life. The USS Oklahoma Memorial, accessible via a free shuttle to Ford Island, honors the crewmen who perished on the battleship Oklahoma.
Exhibit galleries at the memorial are replete with personal memorabilia, dramatic photographs, and artifacts of the battle, immersing visitors in the sights and sounds of that fateful day. The nearby Battleship Missouri, where the Japanese Instrument of Surrender was signed, completes the narrative arc of World War II.
While the memorial itself is free to visit, the experience is enriched by the lush tropical landscape and the tranquil harbor waters. Seasonal changes are subtle, yet the blooming plumeria and hibiscus flowers add vibrant colors to the somber atmosphere. For those seeking a deeper connection, ranger-led tours and multimedia experiences, including VR, are available.
In the evenings, the memorial’s tranquility is punctuated by the soft glow of sunset over the harbor, a moment of peace that resonates deeply. Nearby, the historic town of Honolulu offers a blend of cultural attractions and artisanal shops, while local outfitters provide opportunities for snorkeling and other water activities.
This memorial, while a place of remembrance, also serves as a beacon for peace and reflection, inviting travelers to connect with a pivotal moment in history amidst the serene beauty of Hawaii.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Annual visitors
- 1 400 000
- Established year
- 1962
Top 3 Facts about Pearl Harbor National Memorial
The USS Arizona Memorial, part of the historic site, is a 180-foot-long white concrete structure that straddles the sunken USS Arizona, serving as the final resting place for 1,177 crew members killed during the attack.
In this protected sanctuary, endangered Hawaiian waterbirds and the elegant ae‘o (Hawaiian stilt) inhabit the shores. Anchialine pool shrimp thrive in the unique brackish pools, while native coastal vegetation, meticulously restored by community volunteers, provides a habitat for these rare species. The area is also a haven for endemic plants, preserved through meticulous conservation efforts. This delicate ecosystem, though largely inaccessible to the public, offers a glimpse of Hawaii’s natural beauty at the Betty Bliss Memorial Overlook.
Beneath the serene waters, a varied sedimentary substrate supports the historic hull of the USS Arizona, with soft, gray clay at the stern and very stiff, brown clay and coral debris at the bow and starboard side, each layer telling a story of geological history. The surrounding landscape is framed by the backdrop of Oahu’s volcanic origins, with lands formed from explosive activity millions of years ago. The water’s crystal clarity reflects the vibrant tropical sky, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in this historically and geologically rich environment.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in late fall to avoid summer crowds. Catch the USS Arizona Memorial via a short Navy-operated boat ride. Arrive early at the visitor center, wear comfortable shoes, and bring water. Enjoy the 23-minute introductory film before your visit. Check the calendar for special events like the annual Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day on December 7.
Pack Appropriately
Pack light, breathable clothing for temperatures ranging from 68-88°F. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and umbrella for occasional rain, especially during winter months. Comfortable shoes are a must. For longer stays, include layers for cooler evenings and any specific camping gear.
Respect Wildlife
Respect native habitats by staying on designated paths and avoiding disturbance of endangered species, especially during breeding seasons. Remove invasive weeds if participating in volunteer projects. Leave no trace to preserve unique flora and fauna.【】assistant
Respect native habitats by staying on designated paths and avoiding disturbance of endangered species, especially during breeding seasons. Remove invasive weeds if participating in volunteer projects. Leave no trace.
Stay Informed
Wear enclosed shoes to avoid tripping hazards on shuttles, battleships, and submarines. Stay informed about weather conditions and follow park rules. For emergencies, contact park authorities at the visitor center. Respect the solemn atmosphere and Silence your phone in sensitive areas.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (70s-80s°F) and gentle rains make for a serene visit. Attend the National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony in December, but spring brings fewer crowds. Ideal for reflection and history immersion.
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (85-88°F) and sunny weather. Enjoy the 4th of July celebration with picnics, concerts, and fireworks on historic battleships. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.
Visit in fall, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s, for a serene experience. The National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony on December 7th is a poignant highlight, though it marks the beginning of winter. Mild weather makes fall an ideal time to explore historical sites and attend prep events for the commemoration.
Visit from November to April when temperatures range from 75 to 80°F. Mild winter weather, occasional rainfall, and fewer crowds make it an ideal time for a serene and reflective experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Pearl Harbor National Memorial has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit Pearl Harbor, it is convenient to stay in Honolulu, particularly in the Waikiki area, as it is about a 45-minute drive away. You can also consider staying in other parts of Oahu, such as West Oahu or East Oahu, depending on your preferences and travel plans.
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Pets are not allowed inside the visitor center or the memorials, but service animals are welcome in all public areas.
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It costs $7 per day to park. You can pay using a mobile app or at the on-site kiosk. This fee helps with park maintenance and services.
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The Pearl Harbor National Memorial commemorates the surprise aerial attack by the Japanese on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor on Oahu Island, Hawaii, on December 7, 1941, which killed over 2,400 Americans and sank twelve ships, drawing the United States into World War II. The memorial also honors the broader context of the war in the Pacific, from the sinking of the USS Arizona to the surrender on the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay.