Keiki can explore Pearl Harbor, including overnight stay on Battleship Missouri

Pearl Harbor Historic Sites is accepting applications for the 2026 spring semester Pearl Harbor Explorer Program, offering neighbor island students in grades 4 to 12 a two-day educational journey to Oʻahu — including an overnight stay aboard the Battleship Missouri.

Southwest Airlines for a second year donated 400 complimentary tickets.

Applications for the 2026 spring semester Pearl Harbor Explorers Program are now open. Deadline to apply is Nov. 14.

Spring semester program dates will take place between Jan. 15 and April 30, 2026.

Pearl Harbor Historic Sites — including Pearl Harbor National Memorial/USS Arizona Memorial, the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, the Battleship Missouri Memorial and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum — offers a unique and immersive journey into some of the most significant events in world history.

Pearl Harbor Explorers provides students with a comprehensive learning experience by visiting multiple historic sites located at Pearl Harbor.

“We’re especially proud to support efforts that connect keiki to the places, stories and experiences that shape their understanding of Hawaiʻi,” said Southwest Airlines Leader of Corporate Responsibility across Hawaiʻi Kelly Knox in an announcement about the renewed partnership. “Helping students from across the islands visit Pearl Harbor is one small way we can invest in the next generation and honor the history that connects us all.”

Hawaiʻi Technology Academy from Maui was selected as this year’s fall semester awardee.

The students participated in the Pearl Harbor Explorer Program on October 7–8, immersing themselves in hands-on learning experiences across all of the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites.

“The Pearl Harbor Explorers program has been a great way for students like me to get involved in aviation and learn more about it,” shared Hawaiʻi Technology Academy freshman Xavier Stream in the announcement. “It’s opened so many opportunities. I’ve been able to perform preflight checks on Cessnas, fly simulators and see incredible World War II planes and artifacts. There are also so many cool fighter jets to explore. Overall, it’s been a really fun and inspiring experience.”

Educators are asked to submit an application that describes their interest in the learning program, anticipated student impact, specific financial and travel requirements and their commitment to manage their travel manifest and logistics to ensure a safe travel experience for students in their application to be part of the spring program.

Transportation to the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, museum admission fees, education program fees, meals and overnight accommodations, if needed, can be requested by the applicant.

Not all applications will be awarded because of limited funds. Schools will be contacted directly to review submitted applications.

Teachers and school administrators are encouraged to fill out the application here.