Set in a peaceful crater above Honolulu, Punchbowl National Cemetery honors over 53,000 U.S. service members with sweeping views, quiet grounds, mighty memorials, and unforgettable moments.
Punchbowl Cemetery
Built in the aftermath of World War II, Punchbowl National Cemetery honors the service and sacrifice of U.S. service members. Set within the peaceful crater of an ancient volcano, it houses Military heroes like Senator Daniel K. Inouye and the Courts of the Missing. Today, it stands as a sacred site of remembrance and one of the most moving landmarks in Hawaii.
Above Downtown
Located above Downtown Honolulu.
Military Cemetery
Resting place of US Military Personnel.
Movie & Television
Featured in several big productions.
See as we drive
Drive through the Punchbowl Cemetery.
Restricted Stop
Contact in advance for family members.
Tour Guide & Founder
Each drive through the ʻArlington of the Pacificʻ is a humbling escape from the city. Even after sharing this place with guests for over 15 years, every visit is a chance to appreciate each service members sacrifice.
Tour Guide & Founder
Each drive through the ʻArlington of the Pacificʻ is a humbling escape from the city. Even after sharing this place with guests for over 15 years, every visit is a chance to appreciate each service members sacrifice.
About Punchbowl Cemetery
Punchbowl’s highlights include the Courts of the Missing and the Honolulu Memorial. You will find the names of an additional 28,788 service members lost or buried at sea.
It’s a place of reflection and honor, paying tribute to American heroes from the second half of the last Century.
In addition to being featured in Hawaii Five-0 and other productions, it’s one of the most visually striking and emotionally powerful places on Oahu. All set within a peaceful volcanic crater.
Honolulu Military Cemetery
Located in the crater of a volcanic tuff cone above historic downtown Honolulu, you must be military or immediate family to be buried here. With very few exceptions. There is a nondenominational chapel and mosaic tile maps of the conflicts since World War II.
| Detail | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Site Type | ✓ National military cemetery located within a volcanic crater |
| Experience | ✓ Peaceful memorial with panoramic views over Honolulu |
| Visit Style | ✓ Quiet, reflective visit with minimal noise and movement |
| Site Atmosphere | ✓ Highly respectful, solemn, and contemplative environment |
| Time Needed | ✓ Approximately 30–60 minutes to walk grounds |
| Best Use Case | ✓ History, remembrance, and scenic overlook stop |
| Flow Tip | ✓ Combine with nearby landmarks for a full city experience |
- Operating Hours: Open 8:00 am - 6:00 pm 7 days a week
- Closures: Major Federal Holidays, filming, maintenance
- Special Events: Memorial and AnZAC Day Ceremonies
- Additional Costs: There are no fees to visit Punchbowl
- Address: 2177 Puowaina Dr, Honolulu, HI 96813
- From Waikiki: 15-25 minute drive, 30-45 minutes by bus
- From Ko Olina: 45 min - 1 hr drive, 2 hr bus (transfer)
- From Turtle Bay: 90 minute drive, 3 hr bus (transfer)
Similar activities & places
Whether you’re paying respects or simply learning more about Hawaii’s role in global history, the Punchbowl National Cemetery is a humbling experience to include on a vacation to Oahu. Several other historic attractions, such as the Kamehameha Statue, are nearby for you to visit during your travels.
But wait, there’s more. Click the button to discover even more historic Downtown location.
These are the top nearby activities and location options available on this featured tour.
Punchbowl Memorial Cemetery
Due to cemetery regulations, guests must remain in the vehicle during visits, making this a peaceful and contemplative drive-through stop. It’s a great place to pay respects as part of your Pearl Harbor and Island Combination tour, especially with historical context from your guide.
Pearl Harbor Tour
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Group rates from
$699
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial
- 1 Memorial + City or 2 Memorials
- 6 hour custom private tour
Oahu Combo Tour
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Group rates from
$799
- Pearl Harbor w/ island
- 1-2 activities + 3-5 photo stops
- 9 hour private tour
About Punchbowl Cemetery
Punchbowl pairs naturally with historic places like the royal Iolani Palace and the nearby National Park. It’s a gentle yet powerful contrast to other sightseeing experiences. This one stays with you long after your tour ends. Scroll down for planning tips and frequently asked questions about your visit.
Where is the Punchbowl National Cemetery located?
Punchbowl is located just above Downtown Honolulu in the Puowaina Crater. It’s a short drive from Iolani Palace and Waikiki, and a common inclusion on Pearl Harbor and city tours with Your Private Tours. But unless you have family buried here, please inform us beforehand.
The Veterans Affairs office has tour vehicles drive through without stopping.
What makes Punchbowl unique vs. other memorial sites?
What are the hours and best times to visit Punchbowl?
Do you need a reservation or permit for Punchbowl?
Are there rules or restrictions to know at Punchbowl?
Punchbowl is more than a scenic stop. This is a place where history, sacrifice, and remembrance come together. The peaceful setting and thoughtful design make it accessible and meaningful for visitors of all ages. It is a robust and respectful addition to any tour of Oahu.
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More historic private tours in Honolulu
Want to combine Punchbowl on a private Pearl Harbor tour featuring other key Honolulu sites? No problem. We can customize your route to reflect the history and stories that matter most to you, even if it’s your last day.
Oahu Combo Tour
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Group rates from
$699
- Pearl Harbor w/ island tour
- 1 activity + 2-3 photo stops
- 6 hour custom private tour
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Group rates from
$799
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- 2-3 exhibits + City or visit all
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Not sure which tour route to take? Try our quick tour quiz or scroll down to get ideas for your perfect day exploring on Your Private Tours.
