Pearl Harbor Battleship Tour from the Big Island — USS Arizona & Missouri Experience
Cross Pearl Harbor by Navy launch, stand above the sunken USS Arizona, and walk the deck where World War II formally ended. This full-day tour from the Big Island pairs solemn reflection with hands-on history at the Arizona and the Missouri.
The Experience
Before You Go
No bags on the memorial
Purses and bags are not permitted on the USS Arizona Memorial; use on-site bag storage ($7 each) or leave items on the shuttle coach.
Expect standing and walking
The tour includes multiple short walks and standing periods—comfortable, sturdy shoes will keep you focused on the story, not sore feet.
Respectful silence on the Arizona
Visitors are asked to maintain quiet while on the memorial to honor the fallen; cameras are allowed but keep conversations low and reverent.
Bring sun protection and water
Much of the tour is outdoors in tropical sun—carry water and sunscreen even on cloudy days to avoid dehydration and sunburn.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the Missouri’s upper deck for unobstructed views of Ford Island and Pearl Harbor infrastructure.
- •Quick stop at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl) offers broad vistas and a calm perspective on Honolulu’s military history.
Wildlife
- •Brown noddies and terns commonly patrol the harbor skies
- •Occasional green sea turtles or reef fish can be glimpsed in calmer harbor waters near shore
Conservation Note
The memorial preserves a sunken warship and regulates visitor impact; follow posted rules to protect artifacts and marine life, and avoid throwing objects into the water.
Pearl Harbor was a strategic naval base long before 1941; the attack on December 7 catalyzed U.S. entry into WWII, and the Japanese surrender was signed aboard the USS Missouri on September 2, 1945.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Supportive shoes are useful for walking museum exhibits, boarding launches, and touring the Missouri’s deck.
Sunscreen and hatEssential
Protects from strong tropical sun during harbor transits and outdoor memorial visits.
Light rain shell
Hawaii’s wet season can bring brief showers—carry a lightweight waterproof layer to stay dry between stops.
Quiet-point-and-shoot camera or phone
Capture memorials and ship decks; avoid flash photography where signs request it and be respectful of mourners.
Common Questions
Are museum admissions included on this tour?
No — this tour includes the USS Arizona Memorial boat admission and Battleship Missouri access; the Pearl Harbor museums are not part of this itinerary.
Is transportation from the Big Island included?
Round-trip airfare between Kona/Hilo and Honolulu is included as part of this package; ground transport and guided transfers in Oahu are provided as listed.
Can I bring a bag to the memorial?
Bags are prohibited inside the memorial; small clear bags are allowed for easy inspection and secured storage is available for a fee.
How long is the boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial?
The Navy-operated launch across the harbor is about 10 minutes each way and offers close-up views of the harbor and installations.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–9 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to walk several city blocks and stand for extended periods.
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