The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor National Memorial is one of the most significant World War II sites in the United States. Managed by the National Park Service (NPS) since 1980, the memorial welcomes thousands daily who come to pay their respects and learn about December 7, 1941. Below you’ll find everything you need to plan – from reservations and timing to what you’ll see on site, Navy shuttle operations, and helpful add-ons like the audio tour and VR experience.
How the USS Arizona Memorial Program Works
The USS Arizona Memorial program is a timed, boat-based experience. Your ticket time is the departure time of the boat – arrive early or you risk forfeiting your spot to standby.
Program schedule (subject to weather and operations):
- Daily, every 15 minutes from 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
- Boat capacity: 145 passengers per trip (per US Navy & USCG regulations)
- Includes safety orientation → boat ride → time on the memorial → return
- No restrooms on the boats or the memorial—use facilities at the Visitor Center beforehand
- The 23-minute park film is not part of the timed program (it’s available separately)
Tip: Build a 75–90 minute window around your program in case of lines, weather delays, or security flow.
Reservations: How to Book (and What to Do If You Miss Out)
Same-day, in-person ticket distribution has been discontinued. Tickets are free and available exclusively on Recreation.gov, with a $1 non-refundable per-ticket fee.
Release windows (HST):
- Daily at 3:00 p.m. for two drops: 8 weeks in advance and 24 hours in advance
Key rules:
- Non-transferable, cannot be resold
- Up to 10 tickets per day per account (infants/children count)
- Arrive at least 1 hour early and check in at the Ticket Validation Desk (Pearl Harbor Theater)
- Bring the PDF with QR code that’s emailed after booking
If you didn’t get tickets:
Use the on-site Standby Callback system:
- Sign up at the tablets near the Audio Tour booth (name, phone, party size).
- You’ll receive an SB Number (on-screen and via text).
- When you receive the callback text, proceed to the Standby line at the theater.
Reality check: Standby can take several hours on busy days (spring break, summer, Thanksgiving, winter holidays). While you wait, visit museum galleries, watch the film, or explore partner sites.
Boats, Memorial, and Film
US Navy Shuttle Boats (What to expect)
Pearl Harbor is an active Navy harbor. While you may not see modern warships at the Visitor Center itself (these vessels are in restricted areas), the US Navy operates the shuttle boats that take visitors to and from the memorial. Crews are known for professional seamanship and ceremonial presentation. For safety, the Navy may suspend boat operations if conditions are unsafe.
Good to know:
- Operations aim for a departure every 15 minutes
- Boat capacity follows current regulations (the program specifies 145)
- In rare cases, high-demand days or maintenance can alter cadence
The Arizona Memorial: Architecture, Meaning, and Sights
Designed by Alfred Preis and dedicated in 1962, the memorial spans the sunken USS Arizona without touching it. Highlights to look for:
- Views toward Battleship Missouri (USS Missouri) from the memorial
- Visible elements of the Arizona above the water (portions of superstructure, turret remnants, barbette)
- The American flag raised daily from a mast attached to the ship’s remains
- Orange buoys marking the ship’s bow and stern
- The shrine room wall with the names of the 1,177 sailors and Marines who perished aboard
- Subtle surface sheen and rising droplets – the ship’s slowly seeping fuel, often called the “black tears” of the Arizona
Respect & etiquette: The USS Arizona is a war grave. Maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor. Many visitors place flowers on the water to pay respects.
The Park Film (Pearl Harbor Theater)
The 23-minute NPS documentary plays on a 15-minute cycle in an air-conditioned, stadium-seating theater (approx. 150 seats). It covers the lead-up to the attack, the events of December 7, 1941 (with archival footage), and the memorial’s creation. Watching the film before or after your boat program adds valuable context.
Audio Tour, VR Center, and Bookstore
Audio Tour (Multi-language)
Enhance your visit with an audio tour (~2 hours of narration) covering indoor galleries (“Road to War,” “Attack”), outdoor exhibits (e.g., the Arizona’s anchor), the harbor crossing, and the memorial.
- Narration voice: Jamie Lee Curtis
- Languages include French, German, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Italian, Russian
Virtual Reality Center
The VR Center offers immersive modules that let you walk the decks of USS Arizona virtually or witness simulated moments of the December 7 attack. It’s a powerful, supplemental learning tool – especially engaging for teens and repeat visitors.
Bookstore (Pacific Historic Parks)
Stocked with WWII histories, Pearl Harbor titles, and meaningful souvenirs. A standout keepsake: USS Arizona Memorial flags – these can be flown over the memorial on a requested date (with blackout dates like Dec 7, July 4, Memorial Day, or days the site is closed). Proceeds support education and preservation.
Seasonality, Security, and Practical Tips
- Peak periods: Spring break, summer, Thanksgiving week, winter holidays – reserve right at release (8 weeks or 24 hours ahead).
- Bags: No bags are allowed inside the Pearl Harbor National Memorial beyond medically necessary items; use paid storage if needed.
- Dress & comfort: Closed-toe shoes recommended; bring hat, water, reef-safe sunscreen.
- Accessibility: Program and facilities are wheelchair accessible; ask Rangers for assistance.
- Weather: Operations are weather-dependent; sudden rain/wind squalls are common – pack a light layer.
Getting There & Parking
- From Waikīkī (by car): ~30–45 minutes with traffic variability. Visitor Center parking is free but fills at peak times—arrive early with a confirmed reservation.
- By TheBus: Budget-friendly public transit from Waikīkī (adult fare typically $3 each way; day-cap with HOLO card).
- With a tour: Transportation + logistics handled; useful if you prefer a set pickup time and guidance. Pros: No parking stress, schedule coordination. Cons: Less flexibility, cost premium, and third-party tours cannot book regular public tickets on your behalf.
Why You May Not See Modern Warships from the Visitor Center
Pearl Harbor is a network of restricted naval waterways. Destroyers, submarines, and auxiliaries are typically berthed away from public view. On occasion, a large tanker, hospital ship, or aircraft carrier may be visible near the Visitor Center area – but it’s the exception, not the rule.
Historical note: The U.S. Navy owns the land under the Visitor Center and the waters around the memorial. In 1968, the Navy appointed the NPS as operator and caretaker. The Navy’s support (including running the shuttle boats) reflects its ongoing commitment to the memorial’s dignity and safety. During the Christmas season, the Navy has offered narrated harbor tours for military and civilian families—availability varies by year and is not guaranteed.
Costs, Policies, and Refunds (At a Glance)
- USS Arizona Memorial tickets: Free; $1 non-refundable Recreation.gov fee per ticket
- Visitor Center & outdoor exhibits: Free
- Partner museums (Bowfin, Missouri, Aviation Museum): Paid admission; consider combo tickets
- Refunds & changes: Reservations are final; no changes or refunds via NPS. For help, contact Recreation.gov (Toll-Free: 877-444-6777 | Intl: 606-515-6777 | TDD: 877-833-6777)