Pearl Harbor

Historic World War II site featuring the USS Arizona Memorial and other significant naval landmarks. It's a deeply moving destination that honors those lost in the 1941 attack.

Things to do

• USS Arizona Memorial — Visit the iconic white structure built over the sunken battleship where 1,177 sailors and Marines lost their lives on December 7, 1941.
• Battleship Missouri Memorial — Tour the retired battleship where Japan's surrender was signed in 1945, offering insights into Pacific naval warfare.
• USS Bowfin Submarine Museum — Explore a WWII-era submarine and learn about underwater warfare tactics and the 75 merchant ships it sank.
• Pearl Harbor Visitor Center — Begin your visit here to watch the official documentary film and gather historical context before exploring the memorials.
• Aviation Museum — Discover restored military aircraft and exhibits detailing the air war in the Pacific, including rare planes from the attack.
• USS Oklahoma Memorial — Pay respects at this solemn memorial dedicated to the 429 sailors who perished when the battleship capsized during the attack.

Food to try

• Plate lunch with kalua pork — Enjoy a local Hawaiian staple featuring slow-cooked pork served with rice and macaroni salad, widely available at nearby restaurants.
• Shave ice — Cool off with this Hawaiian favorite made from finely shaved ice topped with colorful fruit syrups and condensed milk.
• Spam musubi — Taste this local favorite consisting of pan-fried Spam and scrambled eggs wrapped in rice and seaweed, reflecting Hawaii's unique food culture.
• Ahi poke bowl — Sample fresh raw ahi tuna marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil, a traditional Hawaiian dish popular in the islands.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive early and dress respectfully — Visit before 7 AM to avoid crowds, and wear modest clothing as this is a sacred memorial site honoring fallen soldiers.
• No bags allowed at the Arizona Memorial — Leave cameras, bags, and backpacks at the visitor center or nearby lockers, as they are prohibited on the memorial boat ride.
• Allow three to four hours — Plan sufficient time to view multiple sites and fully absorb the historical significance without rushing through this profound experience.
• Observe moment of silence traditions — Respectfully participate in any moments of silence or ceremonies, as visitors are encouraged to honor those remembered at each memorial.