From Maui: USS Arizona Memorial and Honolulu City Tour｜United States
- Visit Pearl Harbor and Downtown Honolulu both important in Hawaiian history
- Step aboard the iconic Arizona Memorial suspended over the sunken battleship
- Take in the quiet reverential space and pay your respects to those who perished
- View historical artifacts, memorabilia, and dramatic photography of the attack
- See architectural landmarks Iolani Palace, Kawaiahao Church, & Kamehameha Statue
Product Info
Important Info
Reminders
What To Bring: Comfortable clothes
What To Bring: Comfortable shoes
Not Allowed: Swimwear
Not Allowed: Bags
Know Before You Go: The National Park Service does not guarantee the “pre-arranged” USS Arizona Memorial boat passes daily due to weather, repair or safety issues. In the event we do not secure a “pre-arranged” boat time, you will be directed to the Arizona Memorial daily line. The line is about a 1 hour wait
Know Before You Go: The USS Arizona Memorial marks a final resting place for hundreds and a space for remembrance and reflection by millions more. Considering this, we recommend visitors recognize appropriate dress and personal standards
Know Before You Go: No swimwear
Know Before You Go: This is a walking tour, and you will be on your feet comfortable shoes and clothes are highly recommended
Know Before You Go: The Pearl Harbor National Park has a no bag policy. Bags that exceed the measurements of 1.5" X 2.25" X 5.5," are not allowed at the monument
Know Before You Go: Bag storage is available ranging from $7.00 to $10.00 per bag
FAQ
1. Why are the remains of sailors still within the USS Arizona Memorial?
The USS Arizona is considered a sacred war grave, serving as the final resting place for the 1,177 crewmen who died during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Most of the remains could not be recovered due to the catastrophic nature of the explosion and the ship's rapid sinking. As a profound act of respect and memorialization, the battleship remains undisturbed, preserving the integrity of the site as a permanent tomb for those lost. Survivors of the USS Arizona crew can also choose to have their ashes interred with their shipmates upon their passing, further solidifying its status as a solemn memorial.
2. What is the history of funding for the USS Arizona Memorial, and was Elvis Presley involved?
The construction of the USS Arizona Memorial was primarily funded through a combination of public and private donations. Elvis Presley played a significant role in raising funds for the memorial's completion. In 1961, he held a benefit concert in Hawaii, which successfully raised over $50,000. This substantial contribution was instrumental in gathering the necessary resources to build the memorial dedicated to the servicemen who perished during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
3. What is the appropriate dress code for visiting the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor?
When visiting the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pearl Harbor sites, it is important to dress respectfully as it is a solemn war memorial. While there isn't a strictly enforced formal dress code, visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable but modest attire. Swimsuits, revealing clothing, and flip-flops are generally discouraged. Opt for casual clothing like T-shirts, shorts of a reasonable length, or pants. The key is to show respect for the site and the individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice.
4. Why is the oil from the sunken USS Arizona still leaking and not removed?
The USS Arizona continues to slowly leak small amounts of oil, often referred to as 'black tears,' decades after its sinking. This phenomenon is due to the immense volume of fuel that was on board the battleship when it exploded and sank. While the leakage is continuously monitored and has naturally diminished over time, completely removing the remaining oil without disturbing the wreck – which serves as a war grave – poses significant technical challenges and could compromise the ship's structural integrity. The leaks are a poignant reminder of the event.
5. What historical artifacts and exhibits can be seen at the USS Arizona Memorial Visitor Center?
At the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, before taking the boat shuttle to the memorial, you can explore extensive museum exhibits. These displays feature a range of compelling historical artifacts, including personal effects of the sailors, salvaged wreckage from the attack, and dramatic photography. These exhibits provide crucial context for the events of December 7, 1941, allowing visitors to view memorabilia and gain a deeper understanding of the profound historical significance and human impact of the attack on Pearl Harbor.
6. What architectural landmarks are featured on the driving tour of historic downtown Honolulu?
The driving tour of historic downtown Honolulu highlights several significant architectural landmarks that offer a glimpse into Hawaii's rich history. You will see the stunning Iolani Palace, which holds the unique distinction as the only official residence of royalty in the United States. The tour also includes Kawaiahao Church, often referred to as the 'Westminster Abbey of the Pacific,' and the majestic Kamehameha Statue, honoring Hawaii's revered monarch. These sites showcase the island's royal heritage and cultural importance.
7. What type of experience can visitors expect at the USS Arizona Memorial itself?
Upon reaching the USS Arizona Memorial, visitors step aboard a serene, white structure suspended directly over the sunken battleship. This space is designed to be quiet and reverential, offering a profound opportunity to reflect and pay respects to the 1,177 service members who perished during the Pearl Harbor attack. The names of all those lost are inscribed on a marble wall in the Shrine Room. The entire experience is focused on solemn remembrance, providing a poignant and contemplative understanding of this pivotal historical event.
8. How much time is typically allocated for visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial?
To fully engage with the historical significance of Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, visitors should allocate a substantial amount of time. This typically includes time for viewing the visitor center's museum exhibits, watching the introductory documentary film, taking the boat shuttle to the memorial, and spending reflective moments on the memorial structure itself. Generally, planning for approximately 2 to 3 hours at the Pearl Harbor site is recommended to respectfully experience all aspects of the USS Arizona Memorial visit.
