The area received its name from the Native Hawaiian word for Waters of Pearl. According to the Hawaiian legend, one of the most powerful Ewa chiefs cut through a navigable channel to hep travels pass through and continue on their journey.
At first, Pearl Harbor was only navigable by smaller shops as the entrance was shallow. Throughout the 1880s, the post began to grow as a harbor and landing point got trading, whaling, and shipping. It also became a strategic point for protecting U.S. soil and eventually, after the port was acquired by the United States for the duty-free export of sugar, it became the location of a military naval base.
Even though a military base was established, it was not fortified as a naval base for many years due to the surrounding shallow waters. At this time, it primarily operated as a refueling station. The base remained a relatively unknown part of the United States military until it was attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy, which promoted the United State's entry into World War II.
While the area still remains a naval base, it is now a popular tourist destination for visitors looking to enjoy the beautiful weather and abundant recreation that Hawaii has to offer and maybe even learn a little more about the history of the U.S. military.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Pearl Harbor, HI?
The state of Hawaii is known for having some of the most pleasant weather all year round. Throughout the year, the temperatures will only fluctuate around 6 degrees. This makes the average temperature between 72 and 78 degrees throughout both summer and winter. High temperatures rarely reach the 90s, making it pleasant no matter what season you plan to visit.
The only drawback to weather in Hawaii is the rainy season. The fall and winter months can come with a significant amount of rainfall, which can sometimes hinder outdoor plans. You may find that accommodations are harder to come by or more expensive during the latter part of winter when the visitors from farther north are escaping the cooler temperatures. You may find the cities less crowded and accommodations more affordable when traveling during the rainy season, but run the risk of storms throughout your trip.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Pearl Harbor, HI:
Pearl Harbor, HI: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. rate patterns by star rating class in Pearl Harbor, HI. Browse these charts to evaluate the cheapest time period to make a reservation in Pearl Harbor throughout the year.
What Luxury Hotels Are in Pearl Harbor, HI?
4 Star Average Prices: $176.00
Hawaii is known to be a luxury destination, and there is no shortage of upscale accommodations for visitors looking to enjoy higher-end amenities and premium outfitted rooms. If you are looking to vacation in style, check out one of the luxury accommodations listed below.
One upscale accommodation located near to Pearl Harbor is the Prince Waikiki. The oceanfront hotel not only provides you with sweeping views of the ocean but also luxury amenities such as a pool with cabanas and swim-up bar, an on-site shopping mall, free Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, and a free area shuttle.
Rooms are extremely comfortable and feature refrigerators, LCD televisions with cable programming, hairdryers, desks, and in-room safes. The hotel offers shuttle services so you can reach many of the nearby accommodations, including Foster Botanical Gardens, Bishop Museum, and the USS Arizona Memorial.
The Modern Honolulu by Diamond Resorts is another luxury hotel option that features upscale rooms outfitted with iPod docking stations, LCD televisions, pillowtop beds, down comforters, cable programming, and designer toiletries. Amenities at the hotel include an on-site spa and shopping, free Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, concierge services, and an on-site restaurant.
What Are Some Budget Hotels in Pearl Harbor, HI?
3 Star Average Prices: $167.57
While Hawaii can be an expensive place to visit, there are plenty of hotels in the Pearl Harbor area that can fit even the tightest budgets. One hotel that features more reasonably priced accommodations is the Hawaiian Monarch Hotel. Rooms at the hotel provide many of the comforts of home including refrigerators, cable programming, and coffee and tea makers.
The hotel also offers its guest a number of amenities such as laundry services, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. You will also enjoy the hotel's central locations close to popular attractions such as Waikiki Beach, Honolulu Zoo, and the Hawaii Opera House.
The Pacific Marina Inn Airport Hotel is another great option for buyers looking to travel on a budget. The hotel is just a short drive from Diamond Head State Monument, Waikiki Aquarium, and Lanikai Beach. Rooms provide you with the most needed amenities such as refrigerators, flat-screen televisions, cable programming, and desks. Amenities the hotel offers its guests include an outdoor tennis court, free Wi-Fi, a barbecue grill, an outdoor pool, and complimentary transportation to and from the airport.
2 Star Average Prices: $143.00
Where Can You Find the Best Accommodation Discounts in Pearl Harbor, HI?
Whether you are planning your trip to Pearl Harbor on a budget or not, there are other discounts at certain hotels that are definitely worth looking into. AAA members can receive a discount off of the cost of a nightly stay at Aston at the Executive Centre Hotel. The hotel provides guests with amenities including a business center, free Wi-Fi, car service, an on-site restaurant, an outdoor pool, and concierge services.
When in your room, you will keep entertained with cable programming. Other room features include refrigerators, microwaves, and complimentary daily newspapers. The hotel is located less than a mile from some of the most popular tourist spots, such as Lolani Palace, Hawaii State Art Museum, and the Chinatown Cultural Plaza Center.
Discounts for AAA members are also available at the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Waikiki. From the hotel, you can walk or take a short drive to Hawaii Opera Theater, the International Market Place, and the Abhasa Waikiki Spa. Rooms at the Ramada are outfitted with refrigerators, flat-screen televisions, cable programming, microwaves, and laptop-compatible safes. Other amenities available at the hotel that can help make your stay complete include an on-site restaurant and bar, free fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour business center.
What Are Some of the Best Hotels in Pearl Harbor?
For travelers who are looking for the ideal mix of value, amenities, location, and comfort, there are plenty of great hotels in and around the Pearl Harbor area that are definitely worth a look. Below are some of the best hotels you will find in the city of Pearl Harbor.
Best Western The Plaza Hotel provides guests with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, laundry services, complimentary airport shuttle service, fitness facilities, and on-site restaurants that provides a free daily buffet breakfast. Rooms at the hotel include all of the comforts of home, including a microwave, refrigerator, LCD television with cable programming, designer toiletries, and complimentary daily newspapers. The hotel is located just a short drive from a number of popular area attractions, including the National Cemetery of the Pacific, Lyon Arboretum, and Kailua Beach.
Another great hotel option for those looking for the best bang for their buck is the Residence Inn by Marriott. From the hotel, you can travel easily to Wet'n'Wild Hawaii, Waikele Premium Outlets, and the USS Arizona Museum. The hotel features extended stay accommodations, which include full kitchens and studio or one or two-bedroom suites. They are pet-friendly and have an outdoor eating area, equipped with a picnic area and barbecue pits. You will also enjoy the amenities available to guests, such as complimentary daily breakfast, a 24-hour fitness center, an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and childcare services.
What Is There to See and Do in Pearl Harbor?
There is plenty to see and do in and around the Pearl Harbor area. For most visitors, the place where the Pearl Harbor bombing occurred is one of the tourist sights that are on the top of their list. You can tour various ships, memorials, and museums by buying packages that include all of them or putting together a package with your favorites.
If you are looking for a vacation full of relaxation and pampering, there are many spas in the area to choose from, including the Honolulu Spa and Wellness Center. Another must-stop on your itinerary is Lolani Palace, where the royal family of Hawaii once resided.
Nature lovers will enjoy an afternoon trip to the Lyon Arboretum, where you can see some of the beautiful blooms and foliage native to the area. You also will fall in love with the Foster Botanical Gardens, which is home to some of the unique floral varieties indigenous to the Pacific region.
Whether you are looking to enjoy the temperate weather, learn more about the history of the Pacific, or enjoy some of the unique and beautiful nature that makes up Hawaii, there is something for everyone in the Pearl Harbor area. No matter what your budget, the city has accommodations to fit in with your vacation needs.
FAQs about hotels in Pearl Harbor