Honolulu: Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona and Battleship Missouri

Visiting Pearl Harbor is often a highlight for travelers interested in American history and WWII. This tour offers a well-rounded look at the events that shaped the course of the 20th century, taking visitors from the infamous morning of December 7, 1941, to the signing of Japan’s surrender aboard the USS Missouri.

What makes this experience stand out are knowledgeable guides who bring the sites to life with stories and insights, and the opportunity to stand on the decks of historic ships that changed the world. The stunning views of the harbor and the respectful, reflective atmosphere make it more than just a sightseeing stop.

That said, some travelers note that timing can be tight, especially during ongoing renovations or peak times when access to the USS Arizona Memorial is limited or uncertain. The tour’s 6-hour duration packs in a lot, but it may feel rushed if you want to linger at each site or explore the museums in depth.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, families, and anyone with a respectful curiosity about WWII. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided narratives that contextualize what they’re seeing.

Key Points

• Expert guides add engaging stories and historical detail throughout the tour.
• The USS Arizona Memorial offers a poignant reminder of those lost in the attack.
• The USS Missouri provides a tangible connection to the WWII peace process.
• The tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from Waikiki.
• Timing might be tight during ongoing renovations or if you want to explore all museum exhibits.
• The price of $163 offers good value for the comprehensive experience.
• Tour accessibility includes wheelchair-friendly options.
• The tour operates with full cancellation flexibility and a “reserve now, pay later” option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Pearl Harbor Visitor Center

Our journey begins at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where you’ll find a wealth of exhibits, artifacts, and oral histories related to the attack on December 7, 1941. We appreciated the way the center sets a respectful tone, emphasizing remembrance and understanding. The exhibits are well-presented and help visitors grasp the scale and impact of that day.

The in-person briefing at the Visitor Center is a helpful introduction, giving context before you board the boat to the Arizona Memorial. This prep work is essential because seeing the memorial itself is a deeply emotional experience, and understanding the background enriches it.

The Boat Ride to the USS Arizona Memorial

Next, you’ll hop onto a Navy vessel for a short, solemn ride across the harbor to the USS Arizona Memorial. The boat ride itself is smooth and provides a moment of quiet reflection on the water. As you approach the memorial, you’ll see the sunken battleship beneath the surface, a haunting reminder of that December morning.

A common theme in reviews is the importance of timing—access to the Arizona Memorial can be limited due to ongoing repairs or renovations. During these times, tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and availability may vary daily. This unpredictability means you should plan accordingly if seeing the memorial is a top priority.

Many reviewers mention that the boat ride and memorial visit are moving experiences, with one quoting, “The harbor was beautiful but wished we could have been able to get on the USS Arizona, this was due to construction.” It’s worth noting that the memorial itself does not allow for extensive exploration; it’s more about paying respects and absorbing the atmosphere.

Exploring the USS Missouri

After returning to land, the tour continues aboard the USS Missouri, nicknamed the “Mighty Mo.” This battleship is where the Japanese Instrument of Surrender was signed, officially ending WWII. Walking its decks, you can imagine the historic moments that took place there.

Guides frequently mention the ship’s storied past—from its active combat role to being a museum piece now. Visitors can go into the captain’s quarters, walk the Surrender Deck, and enjoy panoramic views of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor.

Reviews highlight the value of having knowledgeable guides** like Ro Ro, who bring the ship’s history alive with captivating stories. One reviewer said, “Ro Ro our guide was friendly, informative and on time. Learned a lot of great history on this tour.”

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Reflection and Context

Throughout the tour, guides provide stories about sacrifice, bravery, and the importance of remembrance. The atmosphere at Pearl Harbor is sober but inspiring, especially when you realize the scale of the events that unfolded and their lasting impact.

Practical Details and Value

The tour’s price of $163 covers all major admissions and a boat ride to the Arizona Memorial—considering the full day of guided storytelling, transportation, and access, it offers solid value. The convenience of Waikiki hotel pickups and drop-offs simplifies logistics, especially after a long travel day.

The tour lasts about 6 hours, which many find to be just right. Some comments mention that the time feels a bit rushed, particularly when trying to explore the museums or if tours are delayed due to construction or peak times. Nevertheless, the structured timing helps visitors see the key sites without feeling overwhelmed.

Accessibility and Flexibility

The tour accommodates wheelchair users, ensuring that everyone can participate in this important experience. The full cancellation policy and the “reserve now, pay later” option provide flexibility, especially for travelers uncertain about their plans or with last-minute changes.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience suits history lovers, especially those interested in WWII or American military history. It’s also great for families with respectful children, as the stories and sites are profound and educational.

Those who enjoy guided tours with engaging storytellers will find this particularly valuable. However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or want in-depth museum visits, you might find the tour a bit rushed around the core highlights.

Final thoughts

The Pearl Harbor tour from Waikiki offers a thoughtful, moving introduction to one of America’s most significant sites. With expert guides, well-organized logistics, and the chance to stand on historic ships, it delivers a meaningful experience that resonates well beyond the 6 hours.

While access to the Arizona Memorial can sometimes be limited, the combination of exhibits, the Missouri, and the stories shared make this tour a worthwhile investment. It beautifully balances education, reflection, and a touch of adventure—perfect for travelers who want to connect with history in a respectful way.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off from Waikiki hotels, making it easy to join without worrying about parking or navigating.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes approximately 6 hours, which is usually enough to see all the major sites without feeling rushed.

Can I visit the USS Arizona Memorial during renovations? Access may be limited or on a first-come, first-served basis, especially after September 3rd. Tickets are not always guaranteed, so plan for possible delays.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tour is wheelchair friendly, ensuring everyone can participate.

What’s included in the price? Your ticket covers the boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, admission to the USS Missouri, and the guided tour.

Are there any additional costs? The tour fee includes all major sites; however, some museums or submarine visits nearby may cost extra, and that’s up to you to explore if you have the time.

What should I bring? It’s wise to wear comfortable clothing, bring water, and prepare for potential limited access to certain areas during renovations. A small bag or clear bag might be recommended due to security procedures.

How is the tour guided? An English-speaking guide leads the tour, providing narration, stories, and historical context. The guide’s knowledge is frequently praised by past travelers.

To sum it up, this Pearl Harbor tour offers a respectful, insightful look into a defining moment in history. It’s well-suited for those who value expert guidance and want a rundown of the sites, all within a manageable time frame. While there are minor logistical considerations, especially around access during renovations, the experience’s depth and emotional impact make it a worthwhile addition to any Hawaii visit. It’s a journey that educates, inspires, and honors the sacrifices made more than 80 years ago.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby