Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona and Honolulu City Tour

Exploring the rich history of World War II and the vibrant culture of Honolulu, the Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and Honolulu City Tour offers a captivating half-day experience. Visitors can reflect on the sacrifices made at Pearl Harbor, pay their respects at the National Memorial Cemetery, and discover the iconic landmarks that define the city’s past and present. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a comprehensive introduction to Hawaii’s heritage, this tour promises an unforgettable journey.

Good To Know

• The tour combines visits to key historical sites in Pearl Harbor and downtown Honolulu, including the USS Arizona Memorial and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.
• The half-day tour lasts approximately 5 hours and includes round-trip transportation from select Waikiki and Kahala hotels.
• Visitors can observe the sunken USS Arizona battleship from a floating platform and explore the well-kept grounds of the Punchbowl cemetery.
• The tour highlights the significance of these sites and provides knowledgeable commentary from guides on the rich history and sacrifices made by the military.
• The tour is ADA-accessible, but weight and size limits apply for electric wheelchairs, and personal items are not allowed on the bus or at the USS Arizona Memorial.

Tour Overview and Key Details

This Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour combines visits to downtown Honolulu, the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, and other key historical sites.

The half-day tour departs from Waikiki or Kahala hotels and lasts approximately 5 hours, excluding pickup and drop-off. Round-trip transportation is included.

Guides provide informative commentary as visitors explore landmarks like the Hawaii State Capitol, war memorials, Iolani Palace, and Kawaiahao Church.

The tour features admission to the USS Arizona and other activities. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and guests should note the weight and size limits for electric wheelchairs.

Exploring Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona

Why does the tour begin at the USS Arizona Memorial, the centerpiece of the Pearl Harbor experience? This solemn site marks the final resting place for over 1,100 sailors and marines killed during the 1941 attack.

Visitors observe the sunken battleship from a floating platform, reflecting on the sacrifices made. The tour then moves to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, honoring veterans from all wars.

In downtown Honolulu, the group explores the Hawaii State Capitol, memorials, and historic Iolani Palace. Throughout, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, ensuring a meaningful and educational tour of this pivotal WWII location.

Visiting the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

Next, the tour heads to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, also known as the "Punchbowl."

This solemn site honors the brave men and women who’ve served in the U.S. armed forces throughout history. Visitors can explore the immaculately kept grounds and pay their respects at the gravesites of fallen heroes.

The tour guide provides insights into the history and significance of this hallowed place. Guests have the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by the military members commemorated here.

The Punchbowl offers a serene and poignant experience, reminding all of the high price of freedom.

Discovering Downtown Honolulu’s Landmarks

After paying respects at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, the tour ventures into the heart of downtown Honolulu.

Guests visit the Hawaii State Capitol, admiring its neoclassical architecture.

Next, they explore the Vietnam and Korean War Memorials, learning about the sacrifices of those who served.

The tour then heads to Iolani Palace, the former royal residence, and Kawaiahao Church, a historic landmark.

Throughout the journey, the guide provides commentary, sharing the rich history and significance of these important sites.

The downtown tour provides a well-rounded experience, complementing the solemn visit to Pearl Harbor.

Transportation and Accessibility Considerations

How does the tour ensure accessibility for all guests? The tour offers transportation by air-conditioned coach or minivan, with pickup points at various hotels in Waikiki and Kahala. The tour is ADA-accessible, with prior reservations required. There are some restrictions, such as a weight limit of 500 lbs and a width limit of 29 inches for electric wheelchairs. Personal items are not allowed on the bus, and bags and purses are prohibited at the USS Arizona Memorial.

Features	Accessibility
Transportation	Air-conditioned coach or minivan
Pickup Locations	Waikiki and Kahala hotels
ADA Accessibility	Prior reservations required
Wheelchair Restrictions	Weight: 500 lbs, Width: 29 inches
Personal Items	Not allowed on the bus
USS Arizona Memorial	No bags or purses permitted

Food and Amenities for the Tour

Food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price, though a dining stop at the USS Bowfin Snack Bar is available.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and may want to bring a light jacket, as the tour involves outdoor activities.

The tour is designed for a maximum of 25 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

While some negative feedback mentioned the air conditioning in museums, the overall reviews highlight the informative and emotional nature of the tour, with guests expressing deep connections to the memorial and the history presented.

Guest Reviews and Feedback

The Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews, with guests expressing deep emotional connections to the memorial and the history presented.

The tour boasts a 4.3-star rating from 115 reviews. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides, informative experiences, and comfortable transportation.

However, some suggest improved air conditioning in museums and acknowledge weather-related cancellations. A few express disappointment over misleading promotions, but the majority highlight the tour’s ability to deliver a meaningful and impactful exploration of Pearl Harbor and Honolulu’s iconic landmarks.

Preparing for Your Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour

When preparing for your Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour, it’s important to pack light and leave any prohibited items at home.

The tour includes visits to historical sites, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring a light jacket as the air conditioning in museums can be cool.

Since no food or drinks are provided, you may want to pack a snack. Personal items like bags and purses aren’t allowed at the USS Arizona Memorial, so plan accordingly.

With transportation and admission tickets included, all you need to focus on is taking in the powerful history and sights of this memorable tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes. They may also want to bring a light jacket, as the tour includes both indoor and outdoor activities.

Can I Take Photos at the Memorial Sites?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos at the memorial sites, though certain restrictions may apply. It’s best to check with the tour guides for specific guidelines before taking photos to ensure a respectful experience.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Destination?

The tour spends approximately 1.5 hours at the USS Arizona Memorial, 1 hour in downtown Honolulu, and 30 minutes at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. The total duration of the tour is around 5 hours.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend, but visitors can explore the sites at their own pace after the tour ends. Some travelers choose to spend additional time on their own at Pearl Harbor or downtown Honolulu.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, but there’s a dining stop at the USS Bowfin Snack Bar. Guests may want to bring their own water and snacks to have on hand during the tour.

The Sum Up

The Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and Honolulu City Tour offers a profound and comprehensive experience, immersing visitors in the significant WWII history of Hawaii. From the somber reflection at the USS Arizona Memorial to the exploration of Honolulu’s historic landmarks, this tour provides an insightful understanding of the island’s rich past. Knowledgeable guides, convenient transportation, and accessible amenities make this an essential experience for those seeking to deeply connect with Hawaii’s enduring legacy.