Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial

Traveling to Honolulu and considering a visit to Pearl Harbor? You’re likely weighing the options for a tour that balances convenience, depth, and value. We’ve reviewed the popular Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial tour offered by Hawaii Tours, and here’s what you need to know to decide if it fits your travel plans.

This tour offers a guaranteed skip-the-line experience, meaning less waiting and more time soaking in the history. It features expert guides who aim to bring the events alive, and a comfortable, air-conditioned ride around Honolulu’s historic sites. While the price is reasonable at $69 per person, some travelers have voiced concerns about booking issues and the reliability of certain promises—so it’s worth knowing what you’re getting for your money.

If you appreciate guided visits with a focus on American WWII history, along with a quick city tour, this experience might be just right. However, if you’re looking for an in-depth, personalized or flexible tour, you’ll want to read on for the full breakdown.

Key Points

• Guaranteed entry with skip-the-line access minimizes long waits at Pearl Harbor.
• Comfortable transportation in premium air-conditioned vehicles makes travel enjoyable regardless of weather.
• The tour includes a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, a highlight for history enthusiasts.
• Additional stops include the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific and a quick drive past historic Honolulu.
• Mixed reviews on booking reliability suggest potential issues with third-party reservation systems.
• No meals included, so plan to bring snacks or buy at the visitor center.
• Maximum group size is 25, ensuring a potentially more personal experience.

An Honest Look at the Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial Tour

Introduction and Why It Might Be a Good Fit

This tour of Pearl Harbor with Hawaii Tours offers an efficient, guided way to experience one of America’s most iconic historic sites. If you’re short on time but still want to see the USS Arizona Memorial and learn some of the story behind December 7, 1941, this could be a practical choice. The skip-the-line access is a major draw, especially during peak tourist season, saving you from frustratingly long queues.

We particularly liked the well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicles, which make the journey comfortable, regardless of Honolulu’s often warm or rainy weather. The inclusion of expert guides who “bring history to life” can add meaningful context to the visit, especially if you’re eager to understand the significance of the memorial beyond just the photos.

However, a potential drawback is the mixed reviews concerning booking reliability. One guest described a fiasco where they were able to book after tickets had sold out, highlighting some issues with the third-party system. This suggests that, if you’re set on this tour, booking well in advance and confirming your reservation might be wise.

This tour suits travelers who value convenience, expert narration, and a structured itinerary—perfect for first-time visitors or those pressed for time.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Visitor Center

The core of this tour is the visit to Pearl Harbor, where you’ll explore the visitor center, learn about the attack, and most importantly, visit the USS Arizona Memorial. The highlight here is the boat ride to the memorial itself. This is a poignant experience, as you get to see the sunken battleship, which remains a resting place for over a thousand sailors.

The tour includes admission tickets—a significant perk—so you won’t waste time waiting in line for entry. Expect about two hours at this stop, enough to absorb the exhibits and reflect at the memorial. One reviewer called it a “beautiful memorial” with a “great film” that pays respects, emphasizing the emotional impact.

Stop 2: National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

Next, you’ll visit this extinct volcano turned military cemetery. It’s a somber, peaceful site, with eight courts of the missing inscribed with names. The short 20-minute stop is free, offering a chance to pay homage and take some photos of the sweeping views of Honolulu and the surrounding landscape.

Stop 3: King Kamehameha Statue & City Tour Drive

On your way back to Waikiki, the tour includes a quick drive through historic Honolulu, highlighting the city’s contrasting modern skyscrapers and important historic sites. The drive past the King Kamehameha Statue lets you see a symbol of Hawaiian heritage, and the 20-minute stop is a good photo opportunity.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll travel in premium, air-conditioned vehicles, which is a big plus considering Hawaii’s tropical climate. The group size is limited to 25 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience, but it also means booking early might be necessary during busy times.

What about Meals?

No meals or drinks are included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. This might be a minor inconvenience, but it allows flexibility for those with specific dietary needs.

Authentic Perspectives: What Travelers Are Saying

While the majority of reviews are mixed, some points stand out. A five-star reviewer found the experience “beautiful” and appreciated the film and respectful atmosphere. Conversely, a reviewer pointed out booking issues, noting their frustration when they were able to book despite tickets being sold out, which could dampen your experience if not managed properly.

Another reviewer explicitly called out the third-party booking system as problematic, which underscores the importance of early, confirmed reservations. Some visitors also expressed skepticism about the “guaranteed” skip-the-line tickets, highlighting that the promise might not always be fully reliable.

Analyzing Value: Is the Tour Worth It?

At $69 per person, this tour offers a reasonable price point for the experience. The inclusion of admission tickets and skip-the-line access means you’re getting a smoother visit, with less stress. The guided commentary adds value for those wanting more than just a self-guided visit, especially if you’re new to Hawaiian or WWII history.

However, some travelers might find that the short duration at each site—especially just 20 minutes at the cemetery—limits depth. If you’re looking for a full-day, in-depth exploration, this tour might feel a bit rushed, but for a well-organized overview, it hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors or travelers who prefer a guided, organized approach with minimal planning. It’s ideal if you want to avoid lines and travel comfortably in a small group. The inclusion of additional sites like the cemetery and city drive makes it a well-rounded, quick overview of Honolulu’s historic significance.

However, if you’re seeking a more flexible or personalized tour, or if you’re willing to spend more time exploring independently, you might prefer other options. Keep in mind the reviews about booking hiccups—early planning is advisable.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This?

This Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial tour provides solid value for those who want a structured, hassle-free visit to one of America’s most meaningful historical sites. It’s particularly suited for history buffs, first-timers, or travelers with limited time who want the highlights without the fuss. The expert guides and comfortable transport elevate the experience, making it more than just a quick photo stop.

That said, potential booking concerns mean you should plan ahead and confirm your reservation. It’s a great way to see Pearl Harbor without the stress of navigating public transportation or long lines—an efficient, respectful, and informative option for most travelers.

FAQ

How far in advance should I book this tour?
Since it’s usually booked about 8 days in advance, and considering some reviews highlight booking issues, it’s best to reserve as early as possible to secure your spot.

Does the tour include a boat ride?
Yes, the tour features a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, which is an essential part of the experience, offering close-up views of the sunken battleship.

Are there any additional fees or costs I should know about?
The tour price of $69 includes tickets and transportation. Food and drinks are not included, so budget for snacks or meals separately.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The vehicles are described as premium, air-conditioned, ensuring a pleasant ride despite Honolulu’s warm weather.

What is the typical group size?
The maximum is 25 travelers, which should allow for a more intimate experience, but booking early is recommended during busy periods.

Are there any age restrictions or suitability concerns?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour’s short duration and manageable group size make it suitable for a wide range of visitors.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

In summary, if you’re after a well-organized, guided visit with guaranteed entry and a focus on history, this Pearl Harbor tour offers good value. Just be prepared for the possibility of booking issues, and arrive early to secure your spot in Honolulu’s most historic sights.