Yes, TheBus Route #20 and Route #42 serve direct service from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor’s visitor center, with fares of $3.50 per adult and $1.50 per child (as of 2026).
Is there a bus that goes to Pearl Harbor?
Yes, Honolulu’s public transit system operates TheBus Route #20 and Route #42 from Waikiki to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center for $3.50 per adult and $1.50 per child (exact fare required).
Both routes pick up along Kuhio Avenue in Waikiki and drop off at the visitor center entrance. You’ll find buses running every 20–30 minutes on weekdays, though they’re slightly less frequent on weekends. Check the latest schedules at www.thebus.org the day before your trip—service can change with the seasons. Transfers don’t work between routes, so map out your return trip ahead of time.
How do I get to Pearl Harbor from Honolulu?
From Waikiki, board TheBus Route #20 or #42 at Kuhio Avenue or Ala Moana Center and ask the driver for Pearl Harbor Visitor Center; the trip takes about 35–45 minutes.
Coming from outside Waikiki? Use the TheBus trip planner to piece together the best route. Parking’s available at the visitor center, but spots fill fast—get there before 10:00 AM or skip the hassle and take transit. If you’re planning to hit multiple historic sites, the Passport to Pearl Harbor tour bundles everything together, including transport.
Does the Waikiki Trolley go to Pearl Harbor?
Yes, the Waikiki Trolley Purple Line goes to Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, with last departures at 4:15 PM daily.
Tickets cost $45 for adults and $25 for kids 3–11, and they’re only good for same-day use. The trolley hits multiple Waikiki hotels, but double-check your pickup spot when you book. Show up early if you want USS Arizona Memorial tickets—they’re handed out first-come, first-served. Seasonal schedule tweaks happen, so peek at the official website before you head out.
What bus goes from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor?
TheBus Route #20 and Route #42 provide direct service from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor Visitor Center for $3.50 per adult and $1.50 per child.
Catch the bus along Kuhio Avenue or at Ala Moana Center. Tell the driver where you’re headed before you pay—exact fare only. Expect a 35–45 minute ride, give or take traffic. The TheBus app gives real-time tracking if you want to time your trip perfectly. Skip the 7:00–9:00 AM and 3:00–6:00 PM rush if you can—those hours get packed.
What not to wear to Pearl Harbor?
Avoid swimwear, tank tops, or shirts with offensive graphics when visiting Pearl Harbor; modest, comfortable clothing is recommended.
You’ll stand for long stretches at the USS Arizona Memorial, so wear supportive shoes and maybe a light jacket—indoor areas can get chilly. Hats are fine, but take them off during the national anthem and memorial ceremonies. The National Park Service doesn’t enforce a strict dress code, but security might ask you to cover up if they deem your outfit inappropriate. Swimwear or overly revealing clothes? You might get turned away at the gate.
How much does it cost to ride the Waikiki Trolley?
Single-day tickets cost $45 for adults and $25 for children 3–11 years old, with no multi-day passes offered.
Kids under 3 ride free. Tickets are same-day only and can be bought online or at kiosks in Waikiki. The Purple Line covers Pearl Harbor, but you’ll still need separate memorial tickets, which are handed out first-come, first-served. No group discounts here. Holiday pricing or route changes? Check the official site to stay updated.
How long should you spend at Pearl Harbor?
Plan to spend at least 5–7 hours to visit the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, USS Bowfin, and Aviation Museum comfortably.
Budget 1.5 hours for the memorial and visitor center, 2 hours for the USS Missouri, 1.5 hours for the submarine museum, and 1 hour for the aviation museum. Get there by 8:00 AM to dodge lines and snag early memorial tickets. Pack water, snacks, and sunscreen—on-site food options are limited. Comfortable shoes are a must; you’ll walk over 1.5 miles between sites.
How far is it from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor?
Pearl Harbor is 11 miles from Waikiki, a 25–35 minute drive depending on traffic.
Take Highway 201 (H1 West)—just follow signs for “Pearl Harbor” or “Arizona Memorial.” Rush hour (7:00–9:00 AM and 3:00–6:00 PM) doubles travel time. The visitor center has 1,200 parking spots, and they’re often full by 9:00 AM. Save yourself the headache and take TheBus or a rideshare instead.
What is the best way to see Pearl Harbor?
The best way is to purchase the Passport to Pearl Harbor tour on Recreation.gov for $79.99 (adults) or $39.99 (ages 4–12), which includes access to all four historic sites.
This pass bundles tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, plus a narrated shuttle between sites. Tours leave frequently from the visitor center and last 5–7 hours. Going solo? Arrive early to grab memorial tickets and plan your route between attractions. Audio guides are available for rent at the visitor center if you want extra context.
Can you just go to Pearl Harbor?
Yes, you can visit Pearl Harbor without a tour, but you must secure your own USS Arizona Memorial tickets and arrange transportation.
Walk-in memorial tickets are handed out at the visitor center starting at 7:00 AM, first-come, first-served. Each day, about 1,300 tickets are available for two time slots (9:00 AM and 11:30 AM). If those sell out, you can still explore the museums and exhibits. Parking’s tight—use TheBus or rideshare if you’re driving. Get there early to make the most of your visit.
How much is the entrance fee to Pearl Harbor?
Individual site tickets cost $79.99 for adults and $39.99 for children 4–12; the Passport to Pearl Harbor bundles all sites.
Single-site tickets are only available online through Recreation.gov. The Arizona Memorial and visitor center are free, but you’ll need timed entry tickets. Kids under 4 get in free. Senior and military discounts? Usually not offered. All fees go toward preserving the site and its programs. Keep your ticket handy—security checks are standard.
What is the best day to visit Pearl Harbor?
Monday through Thursday are the best days to visit Pearl Harbor for shorter lines and easier ticket availability.
Fridays, weekends, and holidays get packed, especially around Memorial Day and Veterans Day. December 7th (Pearl Harbor Day) is the busiest of all—plan way ahead if you’re visiting then. Show up by 8:00 AM any day to lock in early memorial tickets. Check the National Park Service website for closures or special events before you go.
How long to walk from Waikiki to Diamondhead?
Plan 2 to 3 hours for the round-trip hike from Waikiki to the Diamond Head summit and back at a moderate pace.
The trail is 1.6 miles one-way with 560 feet of elevation gain. Start early to beat the midday heat and the crowds at the top. Bring water, sunscreen, and maybe a light snack. The trail’s open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). No dogs allowed, and some sections have steep stairs. Parking at the trailhead is scarce—consider a rideshare or public transit instead.
Is there a free trolley in Waikiki?
The Waikiki Trolley Pink Line is currently the only free route, funded by local hospitality partners.
All other lines (Purple, Blue, Green) require paid tickets. The Pink Line runs from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily and covers major Waikiki attractions and hotels. Route maps and seasonal changes are on the official website. Don’t expect free transfers between lines.
Does the Waikiki Trolley go to Diamond Head?
The Waikiki Trolley Ocean Line includes a stop at Diamond Head, along with Kahala Mall, Halona Blowhole, and Sea Life Park.
This route runs daily with multiple departures. Tickets cost $45 for adults and $25 for kids 3–11. The trolley stops are well-marked; give yourself 10–15 minutes to explore Diamond Head from the stop. Bring water and comfy shoes. Frequency changes with the seasons, so check the schedule ahead of time.
