Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: The museum offers a free audio handset, clear exhibit labels, and tight but manageable ladders, letting a solo visitor explore Pearl Harbor history efficiently and at their own pace.
Positives:
- Self-paced audio tour: Complimentary headsets guide you through each area—stop or skip tracks as you like.
- Solo photo opportunities: No extra fee to shoot inside the control room, on deck, or at the quiet waterfront memorial.
Challenges:
- Tight submarine spaces: Corridors and hatches are narrow—carry small items only and move slowly.
- Limited indoor seating: Few benches aboard Bowfin; plan to rest on outdoor memorial benches or at the café.
What is Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum?
- A naval history museum centered on the USS Bowfin, a World War II submarine known as the “Pearl Harbor Avenger”
- An exhibition complex housing authentic submarine artifacts—from torpedoes and depth charges to crew living quarters and control room instruments
- A waterfront memorial featuring 52 monuments honoring Pacific Fleet submariners and the sacrifices of the undersea service
What is so special about Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum for solo trip?
- Tour the USS Bowfin's interior with a free audio guide
- See authentic WWII submarine artifacts and interactive displays
- Pay respects at the waterfront memorial of fallen submariners
- Enjoy solo-friendly photo ops and selfie spots inside the sub
- Grab a snack with harbor views at the on-site café
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: This gives time to tour the submarine, explore the museum exhibits, and walk the memorial without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
Board USS Bowfin:
Walk through the submarine’s control room, torpedo room, and crew quarters.
Tip: Pick up the free audio handset before boarding. Pause the narration to explore tight corridors at your own pace.
Explore the Exhibit Hall:
View WWII artifacts like torpedoes, anti-aircraft guns, and personal items from submariners.
Tip: Start here to understand the Bowfin’s missions before you enter the boat. Look for interactive displays to see torpedo parts up close.
Visit the Waterfront Memorial:
See 52 submarine monuments and read names of 3,500 fallen submariners.
Tip: Take photos of the reflections at sunset. Walk the path counterclockwise to avoid glare on plaques.
Use the Gift Shop and Café:
Browse submarine models, puzzles, and grab a snack or drink at Jake’s Street Food.
Tip: Stop here after your tour. Try the tacos under the shaded deck overlooking the harbor.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
- Arrive at opening: Beat crowds and midday heat by entering when the museum opens at 9 am.
- Consider the Passport bundle: If you’ll visit Battleship Missouri or the Aviation Museum, the $99.99 Passport saves on multiple admissions.
Reviews of Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
Dan Theriault
The Baleo-class submarine USS Bowfin is a National Historic Landmark located in Pearl Harbour, Oahu, Hawaii. I thoroughly enjoyed my tour of this submarine and I'm astounded at how the crew endured the claustrophobic and, frankly, terrifying conditions of the "silent service". Well worth the price of admission!
Sermana Atu
A once in a lifetime experience to board and walkthrough a submarine, the USS Bowfin. It was very cramped and hot, but that was the living and working conditions for the Bowfin sailors. A very interesting part of the Pearl Harbour Memorial.
Melissa Naja
Yes, it is a small submarine, but I still like it plus I already spend whole day all another museum so short walk will save me lots of energy. Most rooms are smaller than a battleship of course. I buy a passport ticket so for me is so much worth! I get to see every place without waiting on a line or thinking about buying a ticket place by place.
S. Sen
Step Inside History on the Mighty USS Bowfin The Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by naval history. Its centerpiece, the USS Bowfin, a World War II “Pearl Harbor Avenger,” is open for exploration, letting visitors step inside and see the submarine up close. You can tour the control room, torpedo room, crew quarters, and engine room — experiencing firsthand how ...
Pedro Loran
Visiting the USS Bowfin Museum was an awesome and eye-opening experience. It was fascinating to walk through the exhibits and see the Pacific Fleet’s role in various conflicts—how much sacrifice and strategy went into each era of naval warfare. The highlight, without a doubt, was getting to tour the actual submarine. Being inside the Bowfin gave me a whole new level of respect for our sailors. Th...
When is the best time to visit Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum (Hawaii, United States)?
Peak season (June–August) draws more visitors—choose a weekday morning. Hawaii’s mild winters still bring strong midday sun, so bring a hat for the outdoor memorial.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission | USD 25.99 |
| Snack at Jake’s | USD 10 |
| Submarine model souvenir | USD 15 |
| Total Estimated | USD 50.99 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
Address: 11 Arizona Memorial Dr, Honolulu, HI 96818, USA
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About Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 808-423-1341Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, solo trip
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