Transportation around Pearl Harbor

Question

During the first week of May, I will be spending a few days exploring the military history of Pearl Harbor and the surrounding area. Whilst I'm not averse to a tour, I might well end up exploring on my own. Can anyone tell me how easy it is to get around the various historical sites without hiring a car? I will be staying in Waikiki.

Answer

Exploring the military history of Pearl Harbor and its surrounding sites is an exciting and informative experience. Since you're staying in Waikiki, it's entirely possible to visit the major historical sites without renting a car, as public transportation and other options are available. Here's a breakdown of how you can get around to the various sites:

1. Public Bus (TheBus)

TheBus is Oahu's public transportation system and offers an affordable and relatively convenient way to get from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor. Bus #20 is the most direct route from Waikiki to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. The ride takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, you can easily walk to the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Tickets for these attractions are available on-site, but it’s a good idea to book the USS Arizona Memorial tickets in advance, as they can sell out quickly.

2. Waikiki Trolley

The Waikiki Trolley offers a more tourist-friendly option with a designated route to Pearl Harbor. The "Green Line" of the Waikiki Trolley goes directly to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and stops at several key historical sites along the way. This is a great option if you're looking for a more comfortable ride than the public bus, and it provides the convenience of hopping on and off at different stops, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

3. Taxi, Uber, or Lyft

If you prefer a more direct and comfortable option, taking a taxi, Uber, or Lyft from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor is easy and relatively affordable. The trip typically takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. These options are ideal if you want to avoid the hassle of public transportation or the need to wait for buses or trolleys.

4. Tours with Transportation Included

If you'd rather not worry about the details of getting around, you can opt for a guided tour that includes transportation. Many tour companies offer packages that pick you up from your hotel in Waikiki and take you to Pearl Harbor. Some of these tours are half-day or full-day and include visits to multiple sites such as the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. While this is a more structured option, it allows you to relax and focus on the history without worrying about the logistics of transportation.

5. Rental Bikes

If you're feeling more adventurous and the weather is pleasant, renting a bike can be a fun way to explore the area. You can rent bikes from shops in Waikiki and ride along the shoreline to Pearl Harbor. While biking may not be the most direct way to get there, it’s a scenic route and can be a good option if you enjoy being outdoors. Just be prepared for a ride that may take 30–40 minutes, depending on your pace, and make sure you're comfortable riding in the city traffic.

6. Walking Between Sites at Pearl Harbor

Once you arrive at Pearl Harbor, all of the main attractions—such as the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and the Aviation Museum—are located within walking distance of each other. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is the main hub, and from there, you can easily access the different sites. Walking around the area is easy, and you'll be able to visit multiple attractions without needing any additional transportation once you're at Pearl Harbor.

Conclusion

While renting a car is not necessary for visiting Pearl Harbor, you do have several transportation options to choose from. Public buses and the Waikiki Trolley are budget-friendly choices, while taxis, Uber/Lyft, or organized tours provide a more direct and comfortable experience. Depending on your preference for convenience or cost, you can easily get around without a car. Since you're focusing on the military history of the area, you’ll find it convenient and easy to explore Pearl Harbor's main sites using any of these transportation methods.

Enjoy your trip and the fascinating history of Pearl Harbor!