Honolulu: Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona Memorial and City Tour

If you’re heading to Honolulu and want a well-rounded introduction to one of Hawaii’s most iconic sites, this tour might just be what you need. It promises a mix of history, culture, and local flavor—all packed into about six and a half hours. We’re here to give you a detailed breakdown, highlighting what makes it worth your time, and what to keep in mind.

Two things we especially appreciate? First, the reserved tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial—a big plus for ensuring you see this poignant monument without the hassle. Second, the combination of Pearl Harbor with a city tour, giving you a taste of both history and local life in one go. A possible snag? The tour’s timing can be tight, especially if you’re eager for plenty of photo stops or a leisurely pace. Overall, it’s best suited for those who crave an immersive yet efficient look at Honolulu’s top sights and WWII history.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines Pearl Harbor, city sights, and cultural landmarks in one tour.
• Small Group Comfort: With only 4-14 travelers, the atmosphere feels personal and flexible.
• Reservations Included: Secured tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial guarantee access to this must-see site.
• Expert Guides: Many reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who make history come alive.
• Value for Money: At $79, it offers good access, transportation, and extras like an audio guide.
• Timing Flexibility: Starts early, so be prepared for a full, sometimes brisk day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Pearl Harbor: The Heart of the Tour

The highlight of the day, naturally, is the Pearl Harbor National Park and USS Arizona Memorial. Once you’re picked up at your Waikiki hotel—free in most cases—you’ll head straight to this historic site. The tour includes entrance to the Visitor’s Center and the famous memorial, which rests above the sunken battleship where 1,177 crewmen lost their lives during the December 1941 attack.

What sets this experience apart is the reserved tickets, a frequent praise in reviews. Several travelers pointed out that many tours don’t secure these in advance, risking missed opportunities. One guest mentioned, “Many tour companies will take you to Pearl Harbor, but if they don’t secure reserved tickets to the Arizona, you may not get to see it.” Having these tickets included provides peace of mind and access to the resting place of America’s fallen heroes.

The audio guide, called the Chiefs Audio Guide Tour, is included in the price. It offers a narrated experience that fills in background as you walk through the exhibits and the memorial. Visitors often note that the 3-hour time allotment at Pearl Harbor is well spent, with enough opportunity for reflection and learning.

It’s worth mentioning that, on rare occasions, external factors like weather or boat availability might interfere with boat rides to the memorial. If that happens, you’ll still have extensive access to exhibits and other monuments at Pearl Harbor, so the experience remains meaningful.

The Itinerary: From Sunk Ships to King Kamehameha

After spending three hours at Pearl Harbor, the tour continues into downtown Honolulu. Expect a drive through the most important business district, where buildings like the Hawaii State Capitol stand with their striking architecture. The tour features several historical and cultural stops:

• Iolani Palace: The only royal palace on U.S. soil, which highlights Hawaii’s monarchy and transition to statehood.
• King Kamehameha Statue: An impressive monument and a filming location for the TV show Hawaii Five-0. Reviewers frequently mention taking memorable photos here.
• Eternal Flame: A poignant reminder of Pearl Harbor’s fallen soldiers, illuminating the tour’s respectful tone.

Other stops include the Queen Liliuokalani Statue, the last queen of Hawaii, and the Hawaii State Capitol—a symbol of the islands’ governance today. The downtown drive provides context on how WWII and the overthrow of the monarchy shaped modern Hawaii.

Additional Highlights and Local Flavor

Along your route, expect to see notable landmarks like the Hawaii Five-0 headquarters and the King Kamehameha Statue, which makes a perfect backdrop for photos and offers insight into Hawaii’s regal past. The tour also covers Hawaii’s business hub and the residential neighborhoods of Kaka’ako, where real estate starts at around $800,000 for a one-bedroom apartment. While this might seem tangential, it’s interesting context for understanding modern Honolulu.

The shopping stop at Ala Moana Mall is the largest outdoor shopping mall in the U.S., interesting for those wanting a quick browse or a taste of local retail life.

Transportation, Group Size, and Timing

One of the biggest benefits of this tour is the small group size—between 4 and 14 travelers. This setup fosters a more relaxed, personalized experience and allows guides to answer questions and accommodate requests more easily. The transportation is in a spacious vehicle, ensuring comfort as you hop from one stop to another.

Start times are flexible, generally between 6:30 am and 10:30 am, with Daniels Hawaii coordinating your exact pickup time. The dedicated pickup and drop-off in Waikiki in most cases is a convenient plus, though there is a $50 surcharge if you’re coming from the airport or harbor—something to budget for if you’re arriving by cruise or plane.

Duration-wise, expect a 6.5-hour window, which includes travel, sightseeing, and some free time. Reviewers note the pace can be brisk, but most appreciate the thorough introduction to Honolulu and Pearl Harbor.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value Proposition

At $79 per person, this tour strikes a good balance between affordability and inclusiveness. It includes entrance fees, an audio guide, transportation, and expert guides, making it a hassle-free way to see key sites. While not the cheapest option, many reviewers mention that it’s worth the cost, especially considering the reserved tickets and personalized attention.

Some comments point out the value of the guided experience: “We enjoyed our trip. It was just the right length and we were kept fully informed of stops and activities.” Guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making history accessible without feeling like a lecture.

What to Wear and Bring

Expect a full day outdoors, so comfortable shoes are essential. Bring a camera for photos, and a water bottle to stay hydrated. Weather can vary, so dress appropriately—light layers or a rain jacket might come in handy. And don’t forget your cash for souvenirs or snacks, even though food options are available on-site.

Luggage, large bags, and pets aren’t allowed in the museum or memorial, but you might find a secure bag drop at the visitor center. Many reviews also highlight the convenience of being picked up and dropped off in Waikiki, especially if you’re on a cruise or short visit.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a structured, informative introduction to Pearl Harbor and Honolulu’s key sites. History buffs, families, and first-time visitors will appreciate the reserved tickets and expert guides, which take much of the planning stress out of the day.

However, if you prefer a leisurely pace with longer photo stops and more time exploring, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, those with mobility issues should note that wheelchair users are not accommodated, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid, well-organized way to see Pearl Harbor, learn about Hawaiian royalty and history, and get a taste of Honolulu’s modern landscape—all in one day. It combines historical significance, local sights, and convenient logistics, making it a smart choice for travelers wanting a rundown without breaking the bank.

Many reviews emphasize knowledgeable guides, well-structured stops, and good value. The included reserved tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial ensure you won’t miss the emotional centerpiece of the visit. While some might find the schedule a bit tight, the experience delivers a meaningful, respectful, and engaging glimpse into Hawaii’s past and present.

This tour is best suited for those seeking a balanced, hassle-free introduction to Honolulu’s historical and cultural highlights, especially if you’re keen to see Pearl Harbor and don’t want surprises at the ticketing stage.

FAQ

Are tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial included? Yes, the tour includes reserved tickets, ensuring you get to visit the memorial without long waits or uncertainties.

What is the duration of the tour? The total experience lasts about 6.5 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and stops.

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, free pickup is included at most Waikiki hotels, with a surcharge ($50) for airport or harbor pickups.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, water, camera, credit card, cash, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Luggage and pets are not allowed.

Can I cancel or reschedule? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for children or families? Yes, it’s family-friendly and educational, but those with mobility issues should note that wheelchair access isn’t available.

Will I see everything planned? While most stops are included, boat ride tickets to the memorial can’t be guaranteed due to external factors like weather.

What if I want a longer visit or more photo stops? This tour is designed to be efficient; if you prefer a slower pace, consider a private or customized option.

Whether you’re history buff, a first-timer, or just want to tick a major Hawaiian site off your list with ease, this Pearl Harbor and Honolulu tour offers a meaningful journey packed into a manageable day. It blends education, respectful remembrance, and local flavor for an authentic Hawaiian experience.

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