Where Is the USS Arizona Memorial Located?

USS Arizona Memorial Location Explained

The USS Arizona Memorial is located at Pearl Harbor, on the island of Oʻahu in Honolulu, Hawaii. Specifically, it sits in the waters of Pearl Harbor itself, directly above the sunken battleship USS Arizona, which remains the final resting place for over 1,100 sailors and marines who died during the attack on December 7, 1941.

Part of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, the site is managed by the National Park Service and can be visited by shuttle boat from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. It is one of the most visited and emotionally powerful historic sites in Hawaii, and in the entire United States. You can also explore the USS Arizona Memorial through various private Pearl Harbor tour options.

Understanding the Memorial’s Location and Layout

The USS Arizona Memorial is located in the waters of Pearl Harbor, about 10 miles west of Waikiki in Honolulu. It is accessible only by boat, which departs from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center at:

1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, HI 96818
(GPS-friendly address; parking is available)

The memorial itself is a white, floating structure anchored directly above the sunken hull of the USS Arizona. It does not touch the ship. Instead, it spans the midsection, allowing visitors to look down into the water and see parts of the wreck. A wall inside the shrine room lists the names of all those who lost their lives aboard.

From a practical standpoint:

• You’ll arrive at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center first.
• After checking in, you’ll board a Navy-operated boat for a short ride across the harbor.
• The entire program, including the boat ride and time on the memorial, takes about 75 minutes.
  

Why the USS Arizona Memorial Matters

This site isn’t just about a ship, it’s about memory, sacrifice, and a pivotal moment that reshaped the world.

When Japan attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, over 2,400 Americans lost their lives. The USS Arizona alone accounted for nearly half of those casualties. Its explosion was so violent that the battleship sank in less than nine minutes, trapping most of its crew below deck. During the attack, the code phrase "Tora! Tora! Tora!" was heard.

The memorial was dedicated in 1962 and now serves as a national shrine. The ship still leaks oil, referred to as the “tears of the Arizona,” creating a haunting visual reminder of the lives lost.

Visitors often describe the experience as humbling and unforgettable. It’s a sacred space, not just a tourist stop.

Common Misconceptions About Visiting the Memorial

Let’s clear up a few myths that often confuse travelers:

You Can Drive Directly to the Memorial

You cannot drive or walk to the memorial. It is on the water and can only be reached by the official shuttle boat operated by the U.S. Navy from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.

It’s Part of a Military Base

While the area around it is a military base, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is open to civilians. Visitors do not need military clearance to access the USS Arizona Memorial.

Tickets Are Easy to Get Day-Of

Not necessarily. Only a limited number of free timed-entry tickets are released each day, and they often sell out online weeks in advance. Booking through a reputable tour company is the easiest way to guarantee access and avoid standing in line.

Expert Tips for Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial

If you're planning a visit, here’s how to make the most of it:

Arrive Early

The Visitor Center opens at 7:00 AM. Earlier time slots are less crowded and cooler.

Book in Advance

Reserve your USS Arizona tickets through recreation.gov or skip the hassle by booking a guided tour that includes reserved access.

Use a Private Guide

A certified guide can give you deeper context, help you navigate the site efficiently, and enrich the experience. Many of our guests say the insights from our guides brought the memorial to life.

Respect the Site

Photography is allowed, but this is a place of reflection. Keep voices low and avoid disruptive behavior.

Allow Time for Other Exhibits

Before or after your boat ride, explore the on-site museums, exhibits, and bookstore. They provide important context that enhances your understanding of the memorial.

How to Prepare for Your Pearl Harbor Visit

What to Bring

• A clear bag for belongings (required for security)
• Government-issued ID
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A refillable water bottle (water fountains are available)

What Not to Bring

• Large bags, purses, or backpacks (not allowed)
• Food and drinks beyond water
• Drones or selfie sticks

Accessibility

The memorial and Visitor Center are both wheelchair accessible. Our tours also accommodate guests with mobility challenges, just let us know in advance so we can make the proper arrangements.

When to Visit

• Morning: Best for light crowds and cooler temperatures
• Winter (Nov–Feb): Peak travel season, book well ahead
• Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot but family-friendly with school vacations
  

Additional Resources

• Pearl Harbor Trip Planning Guide
• Our Premium Pearl Harbor Tours
• Book the Pearl Harbor History Expert Tour

How to Experience the USS Arizona Memorial

The USS Arizona Memorial is more than a destination. It’s a place of deep meaning. It reminds us of a moment in time when everything changed, and it honors those who gave their lives in defense of freedom.

If you're visiting Oʻahu, experiencing this memorial should be at the top of your list. Let us help you make the most of it with a fully guided, stress-free tour that handles all the logistics and delivers rich storytelling along the way.

Book Your Pearl Harbor Tour Today

Walk where history lives. Experience the memorial with respect, depth, and aloha.