Pearl Harbor FAQs

Pearl Harbor is about 10 miles northwest of Waikiki, which takes around 30-35 minutes by car. You can get there by Waikiki to the Peal Harbor Shuttle, public bus, Uber & Lyft, or a tour that includes round-trip transportation.

Yes, Pearl Harbor is still an active U.S. Navy base and is part of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, which also includes an Air Force installation. However, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is open to the public.
Please note that some areas or facilities may be closed due to military ceremonies, operations, or other official events, and these closures can occur without prior notice.

While there is no formal dress code, visitors are asked to dress respectfully for this historic site. Bathing suits, beachwear, clothing that reveals excessive skin, and inappropriate t-shirts are not allowed. Sandals and flip-flops are allowed, but closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety, especially as you’ll be walking through memorials and museums.

The USS Arizona Memorial is a cemetery, and Pearl Harbor is a solemn site. We encourage visitors to wear respectful attire.

Additional Tips:

• Clothing with pockets, such as cargo shorts, is helpful since bags are not allowed.

• A light jacket is advisable as some areas, including the theater, can be chilly.

To maintain security, the following items are NOT allowed at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial:

• Bags and Containers – Any bag, purse, backpack, fanny pack, camera bag, or luggage larger than 1.25″ x 2.25″ x 5.5″.

  *A baggage storage facility (operated by the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum) is available near the entrance for a fee. This storage can be used for all Pearl Harbor Historic Sites. $7 per bag, $10 for oversized bags/luggage. This prices as of 2025 May and could be changed witou any notice.
  
  

• Glass Containers – Only baby food jars and tempered glass water bottles are permitted.

• Recreational Equipment – Skateboards, roller shoes, frisbees, balls, bicycles, scooters, e-bikes, Segways, or similar devices.

• Weapons – Knives, multitools, pocket knives, and firearms (except for authorized law enforcement officers).

• Alcoholic Beverages – Alcohol is not allowed on the premises.

• Other Restricted Items: Aerosol containers (e.g., spray cans), Musical instruments, Flowers (in vases or pots), Helmets (motorcycle, bicycle, etc.), Flags, signs, banners, or wreaths on stands, unless permitted.

The following are allowed, with conditions:

• Small Wallets & Clutches – Must be 1.25″ x 2.25″ x 5.5″ or smaller.

• Clear Plastic Bags – Similar to those used at stadiums, where the contents are fully visible.

• Shopping Bags – Small reusable bags purchased inside the secure area are allowed only for the same day (not valid for re-entry).

• Medical Bags – Must contain essential medical items and be subject to inspection.

• Strollers & Wheelchairs – Must have fixed pouches that cannot be removed.

• Food & Water – Allowed as long as they are not concealed in a package.

Important: Any prohibited items that security stops you from bringing inside must be stored in the baggage storage facility for a fee.

Note: All permitted bags will be inspected and tagged as screened.

For general entry to Pearl Harbor National Memorial, a photo ID is not required. However, you will need a valid government-issued photo ID in the following cases:

• For Military Bases – If you are accessing any areas within Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, such as the Ford Island museums (Battleship Missouri & Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum), a photo ID is required.

• For Ticketed Tours & Reservations – If you booked a tour that includes transportation or a guided experience, some providers may require photo ID verification at check-in.

• For Discounted Tickets – If you are using a military, student, or senior discount, you may be asked to show valid identification.

Tip: It’s always a good idea to carry a government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or driver’s license) just in case!