Pearl Harbor at a Glance: Quick Facts for Your 2025 Day Trip
Planning your visit? Here’s everything you need to know in a snapshot. This scannable guide gives you the essential details to start planning your powerful and moving day trip from Honolulu to Pearl Harbor.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | South shore of Oahu, approx. 10 miles west of Waikiki |
| Distance from Waikiki | ~10 miles (16 km) |
| Average Visit Duration | 3 hours (essentials) to 8 hours (full experience) |
| Est. Round-Trip Transport Cost | $6 (TheBus) to $100+ (Rideshare/Taxi) |
| Best Time to Arrive | 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM |
| Booking Window | 8 weeks in advance for USS Arizona tickets |
How to Get to Pearl Harbor from Honolulu & Waikiki
Getting to Pearl Harbor from the bustling heart of Honolulu or the beaches of Waikiki is straightforward, with options to suit every budget and travel style. Whether you prefer the affordability of public transit or the convenience of a private car, you can reach this historic site with ease. Below is a quick comparison, with more details on each option to follow.
| Transportation | Cost (Round Trip) | Time (One Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Car | $50+ (plus gas) | 30-60 mins | Flexibility & families |
| TheBus | ~$6.00 | 60-90 mins | Budget travelers |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | $70 – $100+ | 30-50 mins | Convenience & small groups |
| Guided Tour | $70 – $150+ pp | Varies | All-inclusive experience |
Driving a Rental Car
For those who value flexibility, driving is an excellent choice. The route from Waikiki is simple: take the H-1 Freeway west. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center offers large, free parking lots, but they are known to fill up quickly. To secure a spot without stress, we strongly advise arriving before 9:00 AM. A car also gives you the freedom to explore nearby attractions like the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet on your own schedule.
Taking TheBus
Oahu’s public transportation system, TheBus, is the most budget-friendly way to reach Pearl Harbor. From Waikiki, look for routes #20 or #42, which will take you directly to the visitor center entrance. The journey takes about 60-90 minutes, offering a scenic glimpse of local life along the way. Be sure to use a HOLO Card or have exact change for the fare, which is approximately $3.00 each way.
Using Uber, Lyft, or a Taxi
For speed and door-to-door convenience, rideshare services are a popular option. A one-way trip from Waikiki will typically cost between $35 and $50, though this is subject to surge pricing during peak hours. It’s always a good idea to check both the Uber and Lyft apps to compare prices before you book. This is a great choice for small groups who can split the fare.
Booking a Guided Tour
If you want a truly hassle-free experience, a guided tour is the way to go. Dozens of operators offer packages that include round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels, pre-arranged tickets, and expert narration that brings the history of the site to life. This option removes all logistical planning, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Top Attractions: What You Must See at Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is not a single museum but a collection of historic sites, each telling a crucial part of the World War II story. While the USS Arizona Memorial is the centerpiece, each location offers a unique and powerful perspective. Here are the main attractions, ranked by priority for a first-time visitor.
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Pearl Harbor Visitor Center & USS Arizona Memorial
This is the solemn heart of Pearl Harbor. The experience begins at the Visitor Center, which features powerful “Road to War” and “Attack” exhibit galleries. Entry is free, but timed reservations are essential for the 75-minute USS Arizona Memorial program. This program includes a moving 23-minute documentary film, followed by a Navy-operated shuttle boat ride to the memorial itself—a serene white structure built over the sunken battleship, the final resting place for 1,177 crewmen. It is a place of quiet reflection and profound respect.
Key Info: Cost: Free (+$1 per ticket online reservation fee). Duration: ~2 hours.
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Battleship Missouri Memorial (“Mighty Mo”)
Step aboard the very decks where World War II officially ended. The “Mighty Mo” is famous as the site where Japan signed the Instrument of Surrender. As you explore this massive battleship, you’ll stand on the “Surrender Deck,” gaze up at its colossal 16-inch guns, and learn about its storied 50-year career that spanned three wars. It’s a fascinating bookend to the story that began with the Arizona.
Key Info: Cost: ~$34.99 Adult. Duration: ~1.5-2 hours.
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Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Located on Ford Island in historic hangars that still bear the scars of the 1941 attack, this museum is a must for aviation enthusiasts. You’ll get up close with an impressive collection of aircraft, from a Japanese Zero fighter to a B-25B Mitchell bomber. The exhibits brilliantly chronicle the role of air power in the Pacific War. For an extra thrill, don’t miss the combat flight simulators!
Key Info: Cost: ~$25.99 Adult. Duration: ~1.5-2 hours. A free shuttle runs from the Visitor Center.
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USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
Nicknamed the “Pearl Harbor Avenger,” the USS Bowfin was launched one year to the day after the attack. Venture inside this WWII-era submarine to experience the cramped quarters where 80 sailors lived and worked beneath the waves. The adjacent museum and waterfront memorial, dedicated to the 52 U.S. submarines lost during the war, offer a compelling look into the “silent service.”
Key Info: Cost: ~$21.99 Adult. Duration: ~1-1.5 hours.
Sample Pearl Harbor Itinerary: Half-Day vs. Full-Day
How much time do you need? It depends on how deep you want to dive into the history. Here are two sample itineraries to help you plan your perfect day.
The Half-Day Essentials Itinerary (4-5 Hours)
- 7:30 AM: Arrive at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, find parking, and clear security. Remember to store your bags at the facility near the entrance.
- 8:00 AM: Spend time exploring the powerful “Road to War” and “Attack” galleries in the Visitor Center.
- 9:00 AM: Attend your reserved time slot for the USS Arizona Memorial program, including the documentary and the boat journey to the memorial.
- 10:30 AM: Return from the memorial. Take a reflective walk through the USS Bowfin Park and its waterfront memorials.
- 11:30 AM: Grab a quick drink or snack from the on-site shop before departing.
The Full-Day Immersive Itinerary (7-8 Hours)
- 7:30 AM: Arrive, park, and check your bags at the storage facility.
- 8:00 AM: Begin your day with the poignant USS Arizona Memorial program.
- 9:30 AM: After returning, fully explore the Visitor Center exhibits you may have missed.
- 10:30 AM: Catch the free shuttle bus over to Ford Island.
- 11:00 AM: Board and tour the historic Battleship Missouri Memorial.
- 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at the small cafe on the Missouri’s fantail or head to the Aviation Museum’s Laniakea Cafe.
- 2:00 PM: Immerse yourself in the history of flight at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
- 3:30 PM: Take the shuttle back to the main Visitor Center.
- 4:00 PM: Go below deck on the USS Bowfin Submarine tour.
- 5:00 PM: Conclude your comprehensive day and depart.
Where to Eat: Fueling Your Day Trip
Dining options directly on-site are limited, so it’s wise to plan ahead. You can either have a large breakfast in Waikiki before you leave or plan for a nice dinner upon your return.
On-Site:
Inside the Visitor Center complex, you’ll find a small snack shop selling pre-packaged sandwiches, drinks, and snacks. Often, a food truck is parked nearby offering basics like hot dogs and shave ice. (Price: $)
Nearby:
Just outside the main entrance is Restaurant 604, a very popular option for visitors. It’s a casual American restaurant and bar with fantastic open-air seating that offers views of the harbor. It’s the perfect spot to debrief and relax after your visit. (Price: $$-$$$)
Insider Tips for a Flawless 2025 Visit
Make your trip as smooth and meaningful as possible with these essential tips.
- Book Ahead! This is critical. USS Arizona Memorial reservations are released on Recreation.gov 8 weeks in advance and are often gone within minutes. Set a reminder!
- The “No Bag” Rule is Strict: We cannot stress this enough. No purses, backpacks, camera bags, or fanny packs are allowed inside. Use the on-site storage ($7 per bag) or lock them securely in your car’s trunk.
- Arrive Early: Aim to be there between 7:00 and 8:00 AM to get a good parking spot, avoid the largest tour bus crowds, and beat the midday heat.
- Dress Respectfully: You are visiting a historic memorial and a grave site. Please wear respectful attire—shirts and shoes are required, and swimwear is not permitted. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Stay Hydrated: The Hawaiian sun is powerful, even on cloudy days. You can bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill at the fountains inside.
- Wear Sun Protection: Apply reef-safe sunscreen liberally, and bring a hat and sunglasses. Much of the site is outdoors and exposed.
- Check for Closures: Very occasionally, high winds or other issues can cause the Navy to suspend boat operations to the USS Arizona Memorial. Check the official National Park Service website for alerts before you go.
What to Pack (and What to Leave Behind)
The strict no-bag policy can be confusing. Here’s a simple checklist to help you pack right.
What to Bring
- Government-issued ID
- Credit card and/or some cash
- Your phone or camera (without a bag)
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Reef-safe sunscreen (apply before you go)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A small wallet, or essentials in a clear plastic bag
What to Leave at the Hotel/In the Car
- Backpacks of any size
- Purses, clutches, and wristlets
- Camera bags
- Fanny packs
- Any other type of non-transparent bag
Estimated Budget for Your Pearl Harbor Day Trip
Your day trip costs can vary dramatically based on your choices for transport and tickets. Here’s a sample per-person breakdown to help you budget.
| Expense Category | Budget-Friendly | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | $6 (TheBus) | $80 (Rideshare) |
| Tickets | $1 (Arizona only) | $89.99 (Passport) |
| Food & Drink | $15 (Snacks) | $40 (Restaurant 604) |
| Bag Storage | $0 | $7 |
| TOTAL (per person) | ~$22 | ~$217 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best Pearl Harbor tour to take?
The “best” tour depends on your interests and time. For history buffs wanting the complete story, the “Passport to Pearl Harbor” which includes all four historic sites is the best value. If you are short on time, the free USS Arizona Memorial program is the one essential, can’t-miss experience. For those who want transportation and narration handled for them, a guided bus tour from Waikiki is the most convenient option.
How much is an Uber from Honolulu to Pearl Harbor?
An Uber or Lyft from the Waikiki area to Pearl Harbor typically costs between $35 and $50 each way. However, prices are dynamic and can be higher during rush hour or peak tourist season due to surge pricing.
How far in advance do I need to book Pearl Harbor?
This is crucial: for the free USS Arizona Memorial program, you must book as soon as reservations become available. They are released 8 weeks (56 days) in advance at 3:00 PM Hawaii Standard Time on Recreation.gov. For the other paid sites (Missouri, Aviation Museum, Bowfin), booking a few days in advance is recommended, but you can often purchase tickets on the day of your visit.
How much time do you need at Pearl Harbor?
To see only the essential USS Arizona Memorial and Visitor Center, plan for a minimum of 2 to 3 hours. To experience all four main historic sites and truly immerse yourself in the history, you need a full day—at least 6 to 8 hours. We recommend referring to our sample itineraries above to best plan your day.
TLDR: Your Pearl Harbor Day Trip in a Nutshell
For those in a hurry, here is the essential information for your 2025 trip:
- Book Arizona Tickets First: Reserve your free (+$1 fee) USS Arizona Memorial tickets on Recreation.gov exactly 8 weeks in advance. They disappear instantly.
- Go Early: Arrive by 8:00 AM to get parking, beat the heat, and avoid the biggest crowds.
- No Bags Allowed: Leave ALL bags (purses, backpacks) in your car’s trunk or use the $7 on-site storage.
- Plan for 3-8 Hours: Allow 3 hours for the basics (Arizona Memorial) and a full 8 hours to see everything.
- Getting There: TheBus is cheapest (~$6 round-trip), rideshare is fastest (~$80 round-trip), and a rental car offers flexibility.
