In short
- Visitor Center entry is free.
- USS Arizona boat rides require a $1 fee.
- Book boat tickets on Recreation.gov.
In this article
Getting into the memorial grounds is easy. Securing a spot on the shuttle boat requires planning. You must book the boat ride in advance.
What is the difference between free access and boat tickets?
The Visitor Center is free, but the USS Arizona boat ride requires a $1 ticket.
Anyone can walk into the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center without a ticket. Free access includes the two museum galleries, waterfront exhibits, and the Remembrance Circle.
To ride the Navy shuttle boat to the floating USS Arizona Memorial, you need a reserved ticket.
How do I book the $1 boat ticket?
You must reserve your boat ticket through Recreation.gov.
The $1 charge is a non-refundable management fee. You can show a printed or digital copy of your reservation. The entire boat program takes about 45 minutes.
Do guided tours include boat tickets?
Yes, many guided tours secure the required boat tickets for you.
Tour operators handle the driving and parking logistics. They also often secure the difficult-to-get boat tickets. This is a convenient option if you do not want to navigate Recreation.gov.
How much is parking at the Visitor Center?
Parking costs $7 per day.
You pay the $7 parking fee via a mobile app or an onsite QR code. Bring a credit card or smartphone to complete the transaction.
Are the other Pearl Harbor Historic Sites free?
No, the other historic sites are separately operated and require paid admission.
The USS Arizona Memorial is managed by the National Park Service. Other sites like the Battleship Missouri require separate tickets. You can book combo tours that cover multiple locations.
What do I need to bring for my ticket reservation?
Bring a government-issued ID and your ticket reservation.
Have your printed or digital tickets ready upon arrival. You must also adhere to the strict no-bag policy. Bags larger than 1.25 by 2.25 by 5.5 inches are strictly prohibited.
Questions travellers ask
Can you just show up to Pearl Harbor without tickets?
Yes, you can enter the Visitor Center and museum galleries without a ticket. However, you cannot ride the boat to the USS Arizona Memorial without a $1 reservation.
How much does it cost to go to Pearl Harbor?
General admission to the grounds is free. The USS Arizona boat ride requires a $1 booking fee. Parking is $7 per day.
Do I need a reservation to visit Pearl Harbor?
You only need a reservation for the USS Arizona boat ride and the Ford Island Bus Tour. The main Visitor Center requires no reservation.
