Summer-Fall 2026 • Hawaii Military Guide 233 PEARLS TO PLANTATIONS The shallow waters of Pearl Harbor, known as Wai Momi, “Waters of Pearl” in Hawaiian, once bore oysters filled with magnificent pearls along with plentiful fish. In the 1880s, the mountainous areas of Pearl City were transformed to rice paddies – with cattle and water buffalo plowing the fields. After the construction of the Oahu Railway by businessman Benjamin Dillingham in the late 19th century, the sugar industry bestowed perks to the then-developing neighborhood of Pearl City by providing jobs for residents in the sugar plantations and factories. PEARL HARBOR BASE In 1899, the United States Navy established the Pearl Harbor base which later gained global recognition for the Dec. 7, 1941 attack by Japanese Empirical Bombers. This infamous action swept across Oahu as it destroyed 21 vessels from the U.S. Pacific Fleet and propelled the U.S. to participate in World War II. In 2010, Pearl Harbor joined Hickam Air Force Base to create Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. WAYS TO SPEND YOUR DAY EXPLORE PEARL HIGHLANDS CENTER Located off Pearl City’s main thoroughfare of Kamehameha Highway, Pearl Highlands Center is a must-stop destination for entertainment, dining and everyday needs. Major retailers include Guitar Center, Ross and Sam’s Club, plus Regal Cinemas with four 3D auditoriums. Be your best self while working out at 24 Hour Fitness, getting your hair cut at Great Clips, polishing that pearly smile at Pearl Family Dental Care, treating yourself at Massage Envy and Queen Nails or getting beach-ready at the European Wax Center. Plus, check out the latest in fashion and beauty trends at Ulta Beauty and Jeans Warehouse. Dining options include Hawaii’s only The Pizza Press, the popular Buffalo Wild Wings, and local favorites like Liliha Bakery and Little Joe’s Steakhouse. Also check out the amazing Highlands Market with “ono grinds” (delicious food) from Jersey Mike’s Subs, Chicken & Brisket, Sushiman and L & G Local Food. TOUR PEARL HARBOR One of Oahu’s top tourist attractions, Pearl Harbor is a place to connect with national, international and personal histories of World War II in the Pacific. View events leading up to the Dec. 7, 1941 attack on Oahu and progression to continued peace and reconciliation today.
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