Honolulu: Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona and Battleship Missouri

Traveling to Oahu offers many highlights, but few experiences resonate quite like visiting Pearl Harbor. This tour, focusing on the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri, promises a blend of solemn remembrance and compelling history. It’s a popular choice for visitors who want to understand the gravity of December 7, 1941, while also appreciating the might of the U.S. Navy during World War II.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the expert guides who bring history to life with captivating stories, and the stunning views of the harbor that set a reflective tone. However, potential visitors should note that time constraints can limit how much you see, especially when tours are affected by ongoing renovations or logistical delays. This experience is best suited for history buffs, families, and anyone interested in American heritage who values a guided, structured visit with meaningful storytelling.

Key Points

• Authentic and Educational: The tour offers a genuine look at pivotal WWII sites.
• Expert Guides Make history engaging through storytelling.
• Memorial Atmosphere: The USS Arizona Memorial is profoundly moving.
• Good Value: Includes tickets, boat ride, and transportation.
• Limited Time: The 6-hour duration can feel rushed, especially during busy periods.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers skip-the-line entry.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

This tour of Pearl Harbor strikes a good balance between reverence and education. It’s designed for those who want to learn about the attack that changed history but also appreciate the significance of military history. We appreciate how it simplifies access — with hotel pickups in Waikiki, you won’t need to worry about navigating the busy visitor center or figuring out transportation.

Two aspects we particularly like are the guided commentary that personalizes each spot and the convenience of tickets included for both the boat trip to the Arizona and the USS Missouri entry. Plus, the tour’s professional guides are often praised for their engaging storytelling, making history feel alive rather than distant.

That said, a potential downside is the limited time at each site, especially if you’re eager to explore every exhibit or want to spend more reflection time at the memorial. Renovations and ongoing construction sometimes mean that access to certain parts, like the USS Arizona itself, may be restricted or offered on a standby basis, which can be frustrating if you’re eager to see everything.

This tour suits travelers who value guided insights and meaningful visits over a lengthy, self-led exploration. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time but who still want an authentic experience.

Key Points

• Guided Narratives enrich understanding of the historic sites.
• Convenient Waikiki Pickup makes logistics easier.
• Includes Tickets and Boat Transfer—good value for the price.
• Limited Time at Sites might feel rushed for some.
• Accessible and Flexible with options for wheelchair users.
• Honors the Sacrifice of those who served and lost their lives.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center

The tour begins with a briefing at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where exhibits, artifacts, and oral histories set the stage. Here, you’ll get a quick but powerful overview of the attack, providing context before you step onto the water. Visitors often praise the well-curated museum and the documentary film that helps frame the significance of the sites you’re about to visit.

What to expect: You’ll pass through a security check and receive your tickets, then attend an in-person briefing about safety and logistics. This prep helps you appreciate the gravity of what you’re about to witness.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Boat Ride to the USS Arizona Memorial

The boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial is a moving part of the experience. As you cross the harbor, you’ll see the sunken battleship, a haunting reminder of the attack. Many reviewers comment on the stunning views of the memorial and the harbor’s natural beauty.

The boat ride is typically smooth, and the memorial itself is built directly above the wreck, allowing visitors to pay respects while floating over the site. However, keep in mind that access to the Arizona itself can be limited due to ongoing renovations, and tickets are sometimes distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Some reviews mention that during busy times, the standby line or partial access can be disappointing, but the guided commentary still provides a profound experience.

The USS Missouri Tour

After paying homage at the Arizona, the tour takes you over to the USS Missouri, the famous battleship where Japan’s surrender was signed. Walking the historic decks, you’ll see the Surrender Deck, where history was made, and the captain’s quarters, which are preserved much as they were during the war.

Many visitors comment that the guided tour inside the Missouri is educational and engaging — guides often share fascinating stories and lesser-known facts about the ship’s role in WWII and beyond. You’ll also have time to explore independently, with some reviewing that the time spent can be a little tight, especially if you want to linger longer or explore the ship more thoroughly.

Reflection and Insights

Throughout the day, guides inject stories of bravery, sacrifice, and strategic importance, which helps deepen your connection to the sites. Several reviewers praise guides like Ro Ro and Clift, noting their knowledgeable, friendly approach and ability to bring history alive.

End of Tour and Logistics

The tour concludes with a return to Waikiki, usually by around 2:30 or 3 pm, depending on traffic and delays. Reviewers have noted that timing can be tight, especially if you need to catch a flight or have other plans afterward. A few mention that additional time at the memorial would be appreciated.

What Travelers Can Expect at Each Site

USS Arizona Memorial: The emotional core of the tour. It’s a quiet place of remembrance, built over the remains of a warship submerged since 1941. Visitors often describe it as a somber, humbling experience that makes history feel real and personal.

USS Missouri: A chance to see one of the most famous battleships in history, with a chance to walk on decks where significant WWII events occurred. The guided tour offers stories of battles, leadership, and the ship’s long service life.

Pearl Harbor Museum and Exhibits: These are included in the tour and provide further insights through multimedia presentations, artifacts, and personal accounts. Reviewers appreciate the well-organized displays that help contextualize the attack and the broader WWII narrative.

The Practical Aspects

Transportation and Convenience

The tour’s hotel pickup and drop-off in Waikiki is a major plus, saving you from navigating busy Honolulu traffic or parking. The included tickets and boat transfers streamline the process, making this a hassle-free option for visitors without a rental car.

Duration and Pacing

Six hours sounds like plenty of time, but several reviews mention that it can feel rushed, especially if there are delays or if you want to explore the sites more extensively. Timing is tight on some days, so you might find yourself wishing for an extra hour or two to soak in the atmosphere or visit additional sites like the aviation museum or submarine.

Accessibility and Service

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the skip-the-line entry helps avoid long waits. Guides are experienced, and the inclusion of an audio guide in English ensures that visitors can follow along comfortably.

Price and Value

At $163 per person, this tour offers good value considering the tickets, boat ride, transportation, and guided storytelling. Some reviews note the price is on the higher side, but most agree the quality of guides and the meaningful experience justify the cost.

Authentic Perspectives from Reviewers

Many visitors highlight the knowledgeable guides, with comments like “Robert was amazing and very knowledgeable” and “Clift was our tour guide and did a terrific job.” The stunning views and the emotional impact of the memorial are consistently praised, as one reviewer put it, “A somber experience but well worth it for our brave men and women.”

Others mention logistical issues, such as limited time at certain sites or delays due to ongoing renovations, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. Travelers find the tour educational, respectful, and memorable.

Final Thoughts

This Pearl Harbor tour offers a meaningful way to understand a crucial part of American history. The guided narration, combined with the stunning scenery and serious reflection, elevates this experience beyond just sightseeing. It’s a well-organized, respectful visit that respects the memory of those who served while providing a rundown of WWII’s pivotal moments.

For history enthusiasts, first-time visitors, or those seeking a convenient, informative excursion from Waikiki, this tour hits the right notes. Expect a balance of emotion and education, with guides who bring stories alive, all wrapped in an experience that respects the solemnity of the sites.

If you’re comfortable with a six-hour commitment and want a guided, hassle-free visit that includes transportation and tickets, this tour is a strong choice. Just be prepared for some time limitations and possible site access restrictions during renovations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides convenient pickup and drop-off from Waikiki hotels, making logistics straightforward.

Are tickets included?
Absolutely. Price covers admission to the USS Arizona Memorial (including boat ride) and the Battleship Missouri.

Can I visit the USS Arizona Memorial?
Access depends on ongoing renovations and the time of your visit. While some sites may have limited access or standby options, your ticket guarantees entry unless circumstances change unexpectedly.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, from pickup to drop-off, including visits to both ships and museum exhibits.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and the boats and sites can accommodate mobility needs.

What if I want more time at the sites?
Most reviews note that the schedule is tight, and extra time is limited. If you want to linger longer, consider arriving early or exploring additional sites on your own afterward.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Very much so. Many reviewers praise the guides for their engaging stories and deep knowledge, making the experience educational and memorable.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking on ships and around exhibits. A hat, water, and sunscreen are also advisable, particularly during sunny days.

Final Words

This tour is a well-constructed, respectful journey through some of the most significant WWII sites in the United States. It combines historical insight, stunning scenery, and professional guidance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a meaningful, hassle-free visit. While some might find the schedule a bit tight or access limited during renovations, most travelers will leave with a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made and the stories that shaped history.

If you’re after an authentic, well-guided experience that highlights the importance of Pearl Harbor in American memory, this tour is worth considering. It’s a chance to connect with history in a setting that honors both the past and those who served.

You can check availability for your dates here: