USS Arizona Memorial Claim this business

Roman Freiakon Google

4 months ago

I recently visited the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor on a beautiful sunny afternoon in Oahu, and it was hands down one of the most powerful, emotional experiences I’ve ever had in Hawaii or anywhere, really. The short boat ride across the harbor already gives you chills as you approach the iconic white memorial bridge floating right over the sunken battleship. Once you step onto it, the silence hits different. You’re literally standing above the final resting place of 1000+ sailors and Marines, and you can still see the outline of the hull below the crystal clear water, with those eerie black oil droplets quietly rising to the surface like the ship is still weeping after 84 years. The marble wall inside with all the engraved names is incredibly moving you can’t help but pause and reflect on the real human cost of that day. The National Park Service rangers did an outstanding job with their short talks, sharing personal stories and historical details that made everything feel so real and respectful. No flashy stuff, just pure, dignified history that hits you in the gut. The views of Ford Island, the harbor, and the nearby USS Missouri are stunning too, and the whole site is spotless and well organized. Whether you’re a history nerd, military family, or just visiting Hawaii for the beaches, this is an absolute must do. It’s humbling, inspiring, and something you’ll remember forever. Book your tickets in advance because they go fast! 10/10. I left feeling grateful and deeply moved.

Kyreneon Google

3 months ago

Highly recommend this free experience (just a $1 booking fee on the Reservation website) which was very insightful, sobering, and enlightening. Reservations can be made about a month in advance. We missed that and managed to secure tickets at 3pm the day before when Reservation releases remaining tickets to the public which we booked via the app. The tour starts with a solemn sharing by a ranger who raises the importance of reconciliation which was a very timely reminder. This was followed by a short boat ride to the memorial itself where the sunk ship still stays today. Note that photos are not allowed outside the memorial and can only be taken in the memorial hall itself. The next boat takes you back to land. It’s 40-45 mins in total as suggested by the tour when you reserve it and we felt it was an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended.

Ken - Local Guide & Traveleron Google

4 months ago

Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial in November 2024 was a profoundly humbling experience. As a Navy veteran, standing over the final resting place of my brothers-in-arms brought a wave of emotion that is hard to put into words. The silence at the memorial is powerful, broken only by the sight of the 'black tears' of oil still rising to the surface. It is a solemn reminder of sacrifice and duty. I believe every American should make this pilgrimage at least once to truly honor our history. The National Park Service and the U.S. Navy do an incredible job managing the boat transit and maintaining the dignity of this sacred site. A must-see for all generations.

Ben Brownon Google

5 months ago

Great experience...just make sure to get tickets at 3pm the day before you want to go if you didn't get them 8 months before. By 3:15 the choices of times was extremely limited

Kelly Review Guideon Google

5 months ago

Totally worth it. Be sure to make a reservation in advance. The 10-minute boat ride is free, followed by about 15 minutes at the memorial with a volunteer. Photography is strictly not allowed on the boat or while getting off and walking to the memorial. It’s a beautiful and meaningful memorial experience.