USS Bowfin Submarine Museum

Name: Halia Private Tours
Price range: $$$

Visit Pearl Harbor

The USS Bowfin Submarine, known as the ‘Pearl Harbor Avenger,’ offers a close-up look at life onboard during WWII and honors the Navy’s role in the war. Offering a humbling, hands-on experience that brings history to life.

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Bowfin Submarine

Located at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, it’s an easy addition to any visit to the memorial. With its reasonable admission prices and convenient proximity to the Arizona Memorial, the Bowfin is a must-see for history enthusiasts and military buffs alike.

Visitor Center

Located in the main Visitor Center.

Per-person costs

There is a per-person admission.

Most abilities

Museum is accessible but not sub.

Easy addition

The easiest add-on & quickest exhibit.

Regulations

National Park Service regulates area.

More information about

The Bowfin submarine & Museum

The USS Bowfin was launched exactly one year after the attack on Pearl Harbor and soon became one of the most successful submarines of World War II.

She served in the Pacific, especially the Sea of Japan, and played a key role in sinking enemy ships and cutting off supply lines to the Empire.

Explore its narrow quarters and get a real sense of what life was like aboard for itʻs brave crew.

Featured excursions for

Experiencing the USS Bowfin

Located just a short walk from the Arizona Memorial shuttle boat launch, the Bowfin Submarine is easy to add to your Pearl Harbor excursion. Whether you’re adding it to a half-day excursion or pairing it with an island tour, it’s a great way to experience the significance of Pearl Harbor.

Frequent questions

About the Pearl Harbor Avenger

Whether you’re climbing through tight passageways or learning about the silent service, the Bowfin Submarine offers a rare and fascinating glimpse into life at sea during wartime. Keep scrolling for quick answers to help plan your visit.

Where is the USS Bowfin Submarine, and how do you get there?

The USS Bowfin is located at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center in Honolulu, just a short distance from the Arizona Memorial. It’s easily accessible as part of your Private Pearl Harbor Tour, and your guide will handle the transportation and timing logistics for you.

What makes the USS Bowfin Submarine unique vs. other sites?

The Bowfin is unique because it was launched exactly one year after the Pearl Harbor attack, earning it the nickname “Pearl Harbor Avenger.” It’s one of the few remaining World War II submarines, offering a rare, hands-on look at submarine life during the war.

What are the best times to visit the USS Bowfin Submarine?

The USS Bowfin is open daily, and visiting in the morning is recommended to avoid larger crowds. The audio tour is available in multiple languages and provides an enriching experience at your own pace. But if you visit all the attractions, we recommend leaving this for the finale.

Do you need a reservation or permit for the USS Bowfin?

Tickets for the USS Bowfin can be purchased in advance or on-site, and no special permit is required. It’s an affordable and flexible addition to your Pearl Harbor experience.

Whatʻs included with admission to the Bowfin Submarine?

The self-guided audio tour is suitable for both adults and children, making it a great family-friendly activity that complements a visit to Pearl Harbor. Exploring the Bowfin typically takes about 45 minutes, making it an ideal addition to any Pearl Harbor tour or combination package. Donʻt forget to visit the recently renovated museum while you are there.

Are there rules or restrictions to know on the Bowfin?

The Bowfin is an active museum; visitors should remain in designated areas. As with most military sites, loud noises and disruptions should be avoided. The sub has tight spaces, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility challenges, though it remains an accessible and informative stop for many visitors.

Looking for more history?

Similar activities & places

No matter what time of day you visit, the Bowfin offers an immersive walk through naval history, from torpedoes to periscopes. Looking for more hands-on experiences or Museum stops? There’s a lot to explore at Pearl Harbor and beyond.

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Places like the Bowfin bring history to life in a way you can feel, from the narrow bunks to the control room. It’s a stop that inspires connection, curiosity, and respect.

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In Hawaii, we encourage guests to honor every place we visit. At the Bowfin, that means being mindful in tight spaces, listening to the stories, and treating the submarine with care and respect.

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