Pearl Harbor Visitor Guide — USS Arizona, Tickets & Tips

Pearl Harbor is the most important historical site in Hawaii and one of the most visited memorials in the United States.

USS Arizona Memorial

The centerpiece — a memorial built over the sunken USS Arizona where 1,177 crew members died on December 7, 1941. The experience includes a documentary film, a Navy boat ride to the memorial, and time on the memorial itself looking down into the water where the ship still rests. Oil still seeps from the wreck — often called the ’tears of the Arizona.’ This is deeply moving.

Tickets & Logistics

Free timed-entry tickets are released online at recreation.gov 60 days in advance and sell out quickly. Same-day standby tickets are limited. Arrive by 7 AM for standby. The memorial is at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam — bags, purses, and most personal items are prohibited (lockers available for $5). Allow 3-4 hours for the full experience.

Other Sites

USS Missouri — the battleship where Japan’s surrender was signed, ending WWII. Walk the decks and stand at the signing spot ($35). USS Bowfin Submarine — tour the inside of a WWII submarine ($15). Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum — WWII aircraft in restored hangars on Ford Island, including the actual bullet holes from the attack ($26).

Getting There

Pearl Harbor is 30 minutes from Waikiki by car or bus. The #42 bus from Waikiki goes directly to the visitor center. Parking is free. No bags allowed past security — even small purses. Cameras, phones, and wallets are OK.

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