Grand Pearl Harbor and City Tour — USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri & Pacific Aviation Museum
Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and learn the story of December 7, 1941 on a five-hour guided tour from Waikiki. This combined harbor and city tour blends wartime history with Honolulu landmarks and optional visits to the USS Missouri and Pacific Aviation Museum.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for pickup
Morning departures are cooler and typically less crowded—plan for a Waikiki pickup 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
Expect weather-dependent boat ride
The short launch to the Arizona Memorial can be canceled in rough conditions; pack a light rain layer just in case.
Respect the memorial etiquette
Keep voices low, follow staff guidance, and avoid taking items onto the memorial platform that could be dropped into the water.
Add optional stops wisely
If you want the USS Missouri or Pacific Aviation Museum, reserve extra time and bring cash or card for separate entry fees.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park at Pearl Harbor — a quieter, immersive look at submarine life
- •Harbor shoreline viewpoints near Ford Island for reflective photo angles away from the main visitor center
Wildlife
- •Brown noddies and other seabirds that loaf on the harbor pilings
- •Occasional green sea turtles seen offshore near reef edges
Conservation Note
Visitor stewardship is emphasized—stay on designated paths, do not throw objects into the water, and support site preservation by following staff instructions.
Pearl Harbor’s attack on December 7, 1941, precipitated U.S. entry into World War II; the USS Arizona remains a war grave, while the USS Missouri later hosted Japan’s formal surrender.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Good soles and support for museum floors, dock boarding, and brief city walking stops.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)Essential
Open harbor and city stops offer little shade—protect skin and eyes from tropical sun.
Light rain jacket
Quick tropical showers can occur year-round; a packable shell keeps you dry during boat transfers.
Small daypack & IDEssential
Carry water, camera, and photo ID required for boarding and ticketing.
Common Questions
Is admission to the USS Arizona Memorial included?
Yes—this tour includes tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial; optional visits to the USS Missouri and Pacific Aviation Museum typically carry additional fees.
Can people with mobility issues participate?
The tour is labeled physically easy, but boat boarding and platform access involve steps; contact the operator for accessibility accommodations in advance.
What happens if the memorial boat is canceled due to weather?
The operator may cancel the Arizona portion for safety; cancellations at least 24 hours prior are refundable per the policy—expect alternate city stops if available.
Are food or water provided?
Bottled water is provided on the tour, but bring snacks if you prefer—meals are not included and there are limited food options at some sites.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short periods of standing and boat boarding
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