Pearl Harbor & Hawaii Kingdom History Tour: USS Arizona Memorial and Honolulu Sights
Spend a half day moving from Waikiki to the USS Arizona Memorial and downtown Honolulu landmarks. This guided tour pairs Navy-operated memorial access with curated context on Hawaii’s monarchy and the events of December 7, 1941.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring government ID
Navy boat boarding requires identification—carry a photo ID to streamline security checks.
Sun protection
The memorial and harbor exposures are strong—use sunscreen and a brimmed hat for comfort during outdoor time.
Hydrate and carry a bottle
Food options are limited at the Visitor Center; a refillable water bottle keeps you comfortable through exhibits and waiting lines.
Observe quiet zones
The USS Arizona Memorial is a place for reflection—speak softly, silence phones, and follow ranger instructions.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park—an intimate look at submarine life adjacent to Pearl Harbor
- •Battleship Missouri Memorial—walk the deck where the formal WWII surrender took place, visible from the harbor
Wildlife
- •Tropical seabirds such as frigatebirds and terns
- •Occasional sightings of green sea turtles along Oʻahu’s coastal waters
Conservation Note
Visitors should avoid throwing anything into harbor waters and respect memorial preservation rules; ongoing conservation prioritizes water quality and protection of nearby coral and cultural sites.
Pearl Harbor’s memorial marks the 1941 attack that led the U.S. into World War II; downtown Honolulu’s Iolani Palace recalls the Hawaiian Kingdom era and the 1893 overthrow of the monarchy.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Supportive shoes handle museum floors, short ramps, and boardwalks to the boat.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated in tropical heat; water stations are available at the Visitor Center.
Sun hat and high SPF sunscreenEssential
Direct sun on the pier and memorial makes sun protection necessary year-round.
Light rain jacket or windbreaker
Occasional showers or trade-wind gusts make a compact shell useful, especially in winter months.
Common Questions
Are USS Arizona Memorial tickets included?
Yes—this tour includes Navy-operated USS Arizona Memorial access and the required boat transport from the Visitor Center.
Is the tour stroller or wheelchair accessible?
The Visitor Center and many exhibits are accessible; strollers are allowed but infants must sit on laps during boat transfer—notify the operator of needs when booking.
Can I take photos at the memorial and exhibits?
Photography is allowed in most areas, but be respectful during memorial services; use no flash for restricted displays and follow staff guidance.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time; last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5–6 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light walking and standing for museum exhibits and boat transfer; suitable for most adults and children.
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