National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

What it is

The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, locally called Punchbowl Cemetery, is a United States national cemetery located inside Punchbowl Crater, an extinct volcanic tuff cone above central Honolulu. The crater formed approximately 75,000 to 100,000 years ago during the Honolulu Volcanic Series. The cemetery was established in 1949 and serves as a memorial to honor American armed forces members who died in the Pacific during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The site contains numerous memorials and markers dedicated to various military units and campaigns.

Checked 2026-08-26

What's inside

The cemetery contains memorials including the Courts of the Missing, which honor those missing in action from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. The Honolulu Memorial features a 30-foot statue of Lady Columbia, symbolizing grieving mothers. Stone stairways lead through the crater rim to the memorial. The cemetery grounds contain graves of over 53,000 veterans and eligible family members. Memorial walls list the names of approximately 28,788 military personnel who are missing or buried at sea. The site includes chapels, flag poles, and landscaped gardens throughout the volcanic crater bowl.

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How long to spend

Visitors typically spend one to two hours exploring the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. The duration depends on whether visitors walk the full grounds, read the memorial inscriptions, and visit the Courts of the Missing. The crater rim drive offers panoramic views of Honolulu and Waikiki, which many visitors pause to observe. Those seeking quiet reflection or wishing to locate specific graves may stay longer. The site's solemn atmosphere encourages unhurried contemplation. Photography and reading the historical markers add time to a standard visit.

Checked 2026-08-26

Season and crowds

Operator-confirmed hours are Not recorded pending review. Visitors should verify current opening times before traveling. The cemetery's elevated position in Punchbowl Crater provides cooler temperatures than central Honolulu below. Morning visits may offer clearer views before afternoon clouds develop over the mountains. The site receives significant visitor traffic around national holidays including Memorial Day and Veterans Day, when ceremonies occur. Weekday visits generally bring fewer crowds than weekends. Weather conditions vary seasonally, with winter months experiencing more rainfall that can affect visibility from the crater rim.

Checked 2026-08-26

Tickets

Operator-confirmed prices are Not recorded pending review. The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific is a national cemetery administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. National cemeteries typically do not charge admission fees for visitors. However, visitors should verify current policies directly with cemetery administration. Commercial tour operators may charge for transportation and guided services. Photography permits or special event fees may apply for organized activities. Visitors should confirm any applicable costs before arrival rather than assuming free access for all activities.

Checked 2026-08-26

Getting there

The cemetery sits in Punchbowl Crater, accessible via several roads from central Honolulu. The main entrance lies off Puowaina Drive. Public bus routes serve nearby stops, though walking from bus stops involves uphill climbs. Rental cars and taxis provide direct access. Some commercial tour operators include Punchbowl Cemetery in Honolulu sightseeing itineraries. Parking exists at the memorial site. The crater rim location means all approaches involve elevation changes. Visitors with mobility limitations should plan accordingly, as some memorial areas require stair climbing. Traffic congestion affects nearby streets during peak hours.

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What to watch out for

Visitors must observe respectful conduct throughout this active military cemetery. Recreational activities, including jogging and picnicking, are inappropriate. The National Park Service and cemetery administration enforce decorum standards. Sun exposure intensifies at the exposed crater rim with limited shade in some areas. Footwear suitable for walking on paved and grassy surfaces is advisable. Some memorial sections require descending and ascending stone stairways. Weather changes quickly; afternoon rain showers occur. Mobile phone coverage may vary within the crater. Visitors should remain on designated paths and not disturb graves or floral tributes placed by families.

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Photography

Photography is permitted for personal use, though visitors must maintain respectful behavior. Tripods and commercial photography may require advance permission from cemetery administration. The Courts of the Missing and Lady Columbia statue offer significant photographic subjects. Early morning light illuminates the memorial stonework favorably. The crater rim provides panoramic views of Diamond Head, downtown Honolulu, and Waikiki suitable for landscape photography. Visitors should avoid photographing funeral services or grieving family members. Drone use is prohibited as at all national cemeteries. Flash photography inside covered memorial areas may disturb other visitors.

Checked 2026-08-26

Where it is

• 1 hr 30 min

  12 min walk

  Honolulu Museum of Art

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  First Baptist Church

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• 30 min

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  First Chinese Church of Christ

  • Notable
  • Place of worship

External links

• View on Wikidata