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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.

Top-Rated Activities for Oahu

Latest reviews of Pearl Harbor

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 Visitor Center, Arizona Memorial, Punchbowl & Honolulu City Tour

Pearl Harbor tour

2025/02/07 Couples Sharon

Husband was a US Navy vet and wanted to make sure he paid his respects at the Memorial. Had just enough time and we're not rushed.

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

Good

2025/01/31 Couples Terri

Good history lesson. Touching. Lots to do and see. Want to go back and see th e air museum

Rainbow Helicopters Scenic Island Air Tours from Honolulu

Thrilling start to our Honolulu vacation.

2025/01/23 Couples Dunno

Top pilot (Julien), doors off, beautiful day perfect for flying and many highlights included two whales with young, a huge pod of dolphins. stingrays and turtles. Julien kept us well (but not 'over' informed. To fly over... more

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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.