Honolulu Pearl Harbor Arizona Memorial and City Tour — Tribute, History & Practical Guide
Board a small-group executive tour from Waikiki to the USS Arizona Memorial and downtown Honolulu. This concise, respectful outing pairs the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center’s museums and the Navy-operated memorial boat with a guided drive past Iolani Palace and other historic downtown sites.
The Experience
Before You Go
No bags allowed at the Visitor Center
Do not bring backpacks or luggage—only clear bags for essential infant supplies or medication are permitted; bag storage at Pearl Harbor is limited and can make you miss your boat ticket.
Arrive early to avoid crowds
Morning departures tend to have lighter lines for the documentary and boat shuttle; earlier slots also leave flexibility if the Navy reschedules tickets.
Sun and rain protection
Oahu’s sun is strong and showers are possible—bring a brimmed hat, sunscreen, and a lightweight rain shell to stay comfortable on outdoor exhibits.
Respect the memorial
Photography is allowed in many areas but maintain quiet and decorum on the Arizona Memorial platform—this is a war grave and a place of remembrance.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park (adjacent to Visitor Center)
- •Battleship Missouri Memorial viewing area (subject to Ford Island access)
Wildlife
- •Brown pelican
- •Frigatebird
Conservation Note
The USS Arizona is treated as a war grave; the National Park Service and Navy manage visitor impact—stay on pathways, avoid litter, and respect marine protections.
Pearl Harbor’s December 7, 1941 attack propelled the United States into WWII; the USS Arizona’s wreck holds 1,177 of the 2,403 service members who died that day.
Photographer's Notes
- • Arizona Memorial deck (wide harbor and memorial shots)
- • Bowfin Submarine Museum area (periscope and hull close-ups)
- • Punchbowl overlook for city panoramas
What to Bring
Lightweight daypack or clear bagEssential
A clear bag is permitted for essentials like medication or infant supplies; avoid opaque backpacks that will be refused.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Protect against strong Hawaiian sun during outdoor exhibits and while waiting for the shuttle.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Supportive shoes handle paved paths, museum floors, and the brief boat boarding steps.
Light rain shell
November–March brings more showers; a compact rain layer keeps you comfortable between indoor stops.
Common Questions
Are Arizona Memorial tickets included?
Yes—this tour includes tickets for the U.S. Navy-operated shuttle boat to the Arizona Memorial, but the Navy can adjust or cancel tickets for safety reasons.
Can I bring a bag or backpack?
No—bags of any kind are not allowed into the Visitor Center; clear bags for infant supplies or medication are the only exception.
Is pickup available from the airport or cruise port?
Yes—pickup from Daniel K. Inouye Airport and Honolulu cruise port is available without extra charge; airport drop-offs may return directly after Pearl Harbor depending on your ticket.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour is marketed as physically easy and the Visitor Center accommodates mobility needs, but boarding the Navy shuttle boat may require assistance—notify the operator when booking.
What happens if the Navy cancels the shuttle boat?
If the boat is canceled for weather or safety, the tour will focus on the Visitor Center museums and nearby memorials; refunds are subject to the operator’s cancellation policy.
Can I take photos on the Arizona Memorial?
Photography is generally allowed on outdoor memorials and exhibits, but please observe signage and maintain quiet on the memorial platform itself.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks on paved paths and boarding the Navy shuttle boat.
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