Pearl Harbor (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Pearl Harbor?
What makes it 91% Couple-Friendly: Couples can reflect together at the USS Arizona shrine, share guided deck tours, and enjoy harbor views, creating a balanced romantic and historical outing in one location.
Positives:
- Complimentary entry to main memorials: Couples can explore the Visitor Center and USS Arizona Memorial for free.
- On-site amenities: Restrooms, wheelchair access, and benches are available throughout the park.
Challenges:
- Advance reservations required: Book USS Arizona tickets up to 8 weeks in advance to secure spots.
- Limited shade and seating: Wear a hat and bring water for outdoor queue lines.
What is Pearl Harbor?
- A natural deep-water harbor on Oahu that serves as the primary base for the United States Pacific Fleet
- The location of the December 7, 1941 surprise attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy that drew the United States into World War II
- A National Historic Landmark district preserving memorials to the USS Arizona, Battleship Missouri and other submerged naval vessels
What is so special about Pearl Harbor for couple trip?
- Free access to the Visitor Center and USS Arizona Memorial film and exhibits
- Boat shuttle to the sunken USS Arizona and reflective shrine room
- Explore WWII vessels: Bowfin submarine decks and Missouri battleship
- Photo ops and aircraft displays at the Aviation Museum rooftop
- Easy site transfers using free Navy shuttle buses
Recommended visit duration: 0.5-1 day
Why 0.5-1 day visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can visit key memorials and museums at a relaxed pace.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor Visitor Center & Film:
Watch the 23-minute film in Theater 101 and explore two museums with WWII artifacts.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to secure seats for the film.
USS Arizona Memorial Program:
Join a 30–45 minute program including a Navy boat shuttle to the white memorial and shrine room.
Tip: Reserve tickets on recreation.gov up to 8 weeks ahead and check in 10 minutes before departure.
USS Bowfin Submarine Museum:
Walk the decks of the ‘Pearl Harbor Avenger’ submarine and use the free audio guide to learn ship history.
Tip: Buy tickets online at $23.99 per adult to skip the ticket window.
Battleship Missouri Memorial:
Tour the deck where WWII officially ended with a guided or self-guided audio tour.
Tip: Book the 35-minute guided tour on arrival to ensure your preferred time slot.
When is the best time to visit Pearl Harbor (Hawaii, United States)?
Expect brief afternoon showers November–March; pack a light rain jacket. Visit on weekdays in June–August to avoid peak weekend crowds.
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Reviews of Pearl Harbor (Hawaii)
Wade Z
Visiting Pearl Harbor was an unforgettable and humbling experience. To stand at such a historic site and see the memorials dedicated to those who lost their lives on December 7, 1941, was truly powerful. It was mind-blowing to see the evidence, exhibits, and actual remains of the ships, and to reflect on the sacrifices made by so many men and women who served. The site is well-preserved and prese...
Michael Ostertag
I found it super interesting. I recommend also to visit the USS Midway (~39$)
Diana Ta
A dream come true to be able to finally visit! We were able to get tickets at the counter. Main area and museum opens 9:30am, we arrived 10:30am on a Sunday. Everything closes at 5pm. Parking was easy to find as they are 3 small lots adjacent can host ~150 cars, paid $7 for parking with the QR code just before the entrance. Personal bags are not allowed! Bag holding/storage is available, if you in...
MC Derin
My husband is currently in Hawaii for business. However, he had a rare day off and took the opportunity to check out the local sites and the Pearl Harbor national site. It’s very impressive. You definitely can feel the history when you are there. If you are in Hawaii, make a point to spend some time at this memorial and taking a bit of history!
Amy
Pearl Harbor Memorial: Definitely ideal way to see the Pearl Harbor Memorial!!! We stayed at the Outrigger on Waikiki. They picked us up a block away, which was great~ it gave us time to walk, grab a coffee, abd meet the van- at 6:45am. We had 2 stops after ours to pick up more people, then our driver told us facts about Dec 7th, Pearl Harbor on the 30 min drive there. He was knowledgeable, very f...
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| USS Arizona booking fee (2 adults) | USD 2 |
| Bowfin Submarine Museum admission (2 adults) | USD 48 |
| Battleship Missouri admission (2 adults) | USD 76 |
| Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum admission (2 adults) | USD 56 |
| Parking fee | USD 20 |
| Total Estimated | USD 202 |
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
How to Maximize Your Visit to Pearl Harbor
- Start early: Arrive before opening to avoid crowds at the Visitor Center.
- Use free shuttles: Catch the Navy shuttle to Ford Island and the Aviation Museum for easy transfers.
Map of Pearl Harbor
Address: Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, USA
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