Visiting Pearl Harbor in Hawaii gives you a chance to connect with a pivotal moment in history. You can experience one of the state’s most significant landmarks.
Travelers get a clear view of the events of December 7, 1941, and their global impact. The calm waters and solemn memorials each tell a story that shaped World War II.
You can explore sites like the USS Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri to see history up close. Walking through these locations helps you understand the sacrifices and resilience of those involved.
Planning ahead makes your visit smoother and helps you see the most meaningful exhibits.
Pearl Harbor also features museums, exhibits, and nearby attractions that add depth to your experience. With the right tips, such as those in this complete Pearl Harbor visitor guide, you can make the most of your visit.
The Attack on Pearl Harbor: A Defining Moment
On the morning of December 7, 1941, Japanese forces launched a surprise attack on the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. They targeted the Pacific Fleet and changed both American history and World War II.
Japan carefully planned the operation, which led to lasting military and political consequences.
Prelude to December 7, 1941
Tensions between the United States and Japan had grown for years. Japan wanted to expand in Asia and the Pacific, while the U.S. opposed this aggression.
In 1940 and 1941, the U.S. placed trade restrictions on Japan, including limits on oil exports. These actions threatened Japan’s military plans and increased hostility.
Japan’s leaders chose to neutralize the U.S. Pacific Fleet to secure their expansion. They picked Pearl Harbor as their target because it was the main American base in the Pacific.
By late November 1941, a Japanese carrier strike force sailed toward Hawaii. The fleet included six aircraft carriers, over 400 planes, and support ships.
Their goal was to cripple U.S. naval power before America could respond.
Sequence of Events During the Attack
The Pearl Harbor attack began just before 8:00 a.m. on a Sunday morning. Japanese aircraft approached in two waves.
The first wave hit battleships along Battleship Row, including the USS Arizona, which exploded after a direct hit. The USS Oklahoma capsized, trapping many crew members.
The second wave struck airfields and other ships. In total, more than 2,400 Americans died, and nearly 1,200 were wounded.
A breakdown of major losses:
| Target | Result |
|---|---|
| USS Arizona | Sunk, over 1,100 dead |
| USS Oklahoma | Capsized |
| Aircraft | Over 180 destroyed |
The attack lasted less than two hours and left much of the Pacific Fleet damaged or destroyed.
Impact on American History and World War II
The next day, the United States declared war on Japan. This decision ended its neutrality and brought the nation fully into World War II.
The attack united the American public. Men and women joined the armed forces, and industries shifted to war production.
The U.S. focused on rebuilding the Pacific Fleet and began a long campaign across the Pacific.
You can read more in this detailed account of the Pearl Harbor attack.
Pearl Harbor Historic Sites and Memorials
You can see preserved ships, memorials, and museums that tell the story of December 7, 1941. These sites offer direct access to artifacts, stories, and locations tied to the attack on Pearl Harbor.
USS Arizona Memorial
The USS Arizona Memorial sits above the sunken battleship in Pearl Harbor. It honors the 1,177 crew members who died when the ship exploded during the attack.
You reach the memorial by boat from the Pearl Harbor National Memorial visitor center. The memorial is free to visit, but you need timed tickets.
Inside, you can see the ship’s outline beneath the water and a marble wall listing the names of the fallen. A short documentary in the visitor center provides context before you board the boat.
The memorial is a solemn space. Photography is allowed but should be respectful.
Find more details on the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites website.
USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park sits next to the visitor center. The USS Bowfin, launched in 1942, served in the Pacific and earned the nickname “Pearl Harbor Avenger.”
You can walk through the restored submarine to see cramped crew quarters, the control room, and torpedo tubes. Audio guides explain how submariners lived and worked during wartime.
The museum has exhibits on submarine warfare and a memorial honoring lost U.S. submarines and their crews. Outdoor displays include missiles and a Japanese Kaiten manned torpedo.
For planning information, visit the Pearl Harbor Visitor Guide.
USS Missouri and Ford Island
The USS Missouri is moored on Ford Island and is accessible by shuttle from the visitor center. This battleship was the site of Japan’s surrender on September 2, 1945, ending World War II.
You can explore the decks, bridge, and crew areas. Guides share details about the ship’s role in battles from Iwo Jima to the Gulf War.
Ford Island also hosts the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, which displays historic aircraft and tells the story of aviation in the Pacific. The combination of the Missouri and the aviation exhibits makes Ford Island a key part of the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites.
USS Oklahoma Memorial
The USS Oklahoma Memorial stands near the Missouri on Ford Island. It honors the 429 sailors and Marines who died when the ship capsized during the attack.
The memorial features white marble columns, each engraved with a name. The design lets you walk among the columns for a personal connection.
Interpretive panels explain the ship’s history, the attack, and the recovery effort. The site is open-air and free to visit.
Essential Visitor Tips for Pearl Harbor
You can explore exhibits, memorials, and ships that preserve the history of December 7, 1941. Planning ahead helps you avoid long waits and ensures access to key sites.
Pearl Harbor Visitor Center Overview
The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is the main entry point for all historic sites. Admission to the grounds and museums is free, but some attractions require tickets.
The center features two main exhibit galleries and an open-air area with interpretive signs. A theater shows a short documentary.
Guests can also visit the Pearl Harbor Virtual Reality Center for interactive experiences. Shuttles take visitors to the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
Amenities include restrooms, a bookstore, and shaded seating areas. Food is not sold inside, but water is available.
Large bags are not allowed, so plan to bring only essentials.
Planning Your Visit and Ticket Options
Tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial are free, but you must reserve them in advance through the National Park Service. Same-day tickets are limited and sell out quickly.
If you want to see multiple attractions, the Passport to Pearl Harbor offers a bundled ticket to four major sites. This can save time and money compared to separate admissions.
Arriving early in the morning helps you avoid crowds and midday heat. The site opens at 7:00 a.m., and most visitors spend 4–7 hours exploring.
Check the official schedule for maintenance closures or special events before visiting. Guided tours are available for those who prefer a structured itinerary.
Accessibility, Security, and Practical Advice
Pearl Harbor is wheelchair accessible, including the boats to the USS Arizona Memorial. Wheelchairs are available for rent at the visitor center.
Security rules prohibit bags, purses, and camera cases. A bag storage facility is located near the entrance for a small fee.
Cameras are allowed, but tripods and professional equipment may require special permission. Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing.
Sunscreen, hats, and water are recommended, as much of the site is outdoors. Photography is welcome, but please be respectful at memorials and quiet areas.
This is an active military base, so you may need ID for certain areas.
Nearby Attractions and Enhancing Your Experience
You can explore historic landmarks, cultural sites, and unique shopping opportunities within a short drive of Pearl Harbor. Plan your visit to make the most of your time, from choosing the right tickets to arriving early for popular exhibits.
Exploring Honolulu and Oahu
Honolulu offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic spots. Downtown, you can visit ʻIolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States.
The Bishop Museum displays Hawaiian artifacts and natural history exhibits. For art lovers, the Honolulu Museum of Art features Asian, Pacific, and European collections.
Outdoor enthusiasts can head to Waikīkī Beach for swimming or hike up Diamond Head for panoramic views.
Many visitors also explore things to do near Pearl Harbor, such as Kawaiahaʻo Church, known as Hawaii’s “Westminster Abbey.” These sites are easy to reach by car, bus, or guided tour.
Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace
The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace is a popular open-air market located just minutes from Pearl Harbor. It operates several days a week and features hundreds of local vendors selling souvenirs, crafts, and island-themed goods.
Shoppers can find affordable T-shirts, jewelry, and handmade art. Bargaining is common, and many vendors prefer cash.
Food stands offer snacks, drinks, and local favorites. The market is large, so wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection.
Visiting here is a great way to combine shopping with a cultural experience before or after seeing Pearl Harbor.
Making the Most of Your Pearl Harbor Visit
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially at the USS Arizona Memorial. Book tickets for attractions like the Battleship Missouri online, as they can sell out.
Use the official Pearl Harbor planning guide to learn about tour options and security rules. You cannot bring bags inside, but you can store them for a small fee.
Audio guides and interpretive displays help explain the exhibits. Plan your time at each site, such as the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, to see more and enjoy a smoother visit.
