Of all Hawaii’s famous attractions, none are more symbolic or poignant than Pearl Harbor. It was this harbor that the Imperial Japanese Navy attacked back in 1941, paving the way for the USA to join WWII alongside the Allies. While you may have already known about the attack, there are probably countless Pearl Harbor facts that you can only hear about on one of our guided tours.
At Pearl Harbor Tours Oahu, we take great pride in crafting in-depth and personalized tours to some of the best-known natural, historic, and cultural attractions in Hawaii. Book a tour of Pearl Harbor to find out why this site is one of the most pivotal places in the world. Keep reading below to learn about a few Pearl Harbor facts that will pique your curiosity.
Pearl Harbor Facts Everybody Should Know
Wondering why you should explore Pearl Harbor during your visit to Hawaii? These Pearl Harbor facts will give you a sneak preview as to why our tours are so popular:
Attack on Pearl Harbor: A Turning Point
December 7, 1941, is a date that will be etched into the American psyche for the rest of time. On this day, the Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise attack on the naval base at Pearl Harbor. While this pre-emptive strike was supposed to cripple the USA’s ability to fight, it actually catapulted them into WWII, changing the course of history forever.
USS Arizona Memorial: A Symbol of Sacrifice
The USS Arizona Memorial pays tribute to the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Beneath the memorial still lies the sunken battleship, which creates a powerful emotional connection to the events of that fateful day. Today, you can explore the USS Arizona on one of our guided tours.
Pearl Harbor Historic Sites: Beyond the USS Arizona
The USS Arizona Memorial is one of the primary attractions at the Pearl Harbor Historic Site, but it’s far from being the only one. While you’re here, you can also explore sites such as the USS Missouri Battleship, the USS Bowfin Submarine, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Each site offers a unique perspective on the events surrounding December 7, 1941.
Pearl Harbor’s Underwater Cemetery
The USS Utah, another battleship sunk during the attack on Pearl Harbor, is still partially visible above the water. This former warship now serves as a memorial to the 58 crew members who lost their lives on that fateful day. You can see this historic wreckage from the shores of Ford Island.
Pearl Harbor Visitor Center: Gateway to History
The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center serves as the gateway to the area’s historic sites and features museums, exhibits, and informative displays. Take time to explore the exhibits, which provide context and background information on the events leading up to and following the attack.
Learn More Pearl Harbor Facts on Our Guided Tours
While reading about Pearl Harbor is interesting, nothing is more fascinating than seeing the place for yourself. If you want to hear the most essential and some of the lesser-known Pearl Harbor facts, you might want to embark on one of our guided tours. We’ve been one of Hawaii’s leading tour providers for decades, and all our guides are highly experienced, qualified, and as friendly as they come! Book your tour of Pearl Harbor today. Alternatively, get in touch with us with any queries you may have.