Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour — USS Arizona Memorial & Historic Honolulu Highlights
Spend five hours tracing the arc of Hawaii’s modern history: a park-service film and ferry to the USS Arizona Memorial, then a narrated sweep through downtown Honolulu’s royal sites and memorials. This compact tour balances solemn remembrance with civic context and practical access.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book early for Arizona Memorial access
The National Park Service controls shuttle timing—reserve spots in advance to secure the memorial visit included on this tour.
Pack sun protection
Hawaii sun can be strong even when breezy—bring SPF, a hat and sunglasses for the outdoor portions.
Expect security screening
Allow time for metal-detector screening at the visitor center; leave large bags at your hotel to speed entry.
Bring tissues and allow quiet time
The memorial visit is reflective and often emotional—plan a few minutes to process before reboarding.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the shorter side streets of Chinatown for small plate cafes and shaved-ice stands.
- •Stop briefly at Punchbowl rim viewpoints for unobstructed city-and-crater perspectives that are easy to miss from main roads.
Wildlife
- •Brown noddy and red-footed boobies near the harbor
- •Green sea turtles occasionally seen near coastal reefs
Conservation Note
The USS Arizona site is both memorial and fragile ecosystem; visitors should avoid litter and heed NPS rules to protect marine life and historical artifacts.
Pearl Harbor evolved from a strategic anchorage to a national memorial after the 1941 attack; Honolulu’s civic landmarks reflect the islands’ monarchy, missionary, and territorial eras.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the USS Arizona Memorial platform looking toward Battleship Row
- • Punchbowl rim for wide city-and-crater shots
- • Outside ʻIolani Palace for architectural detail photos
What to Bring
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Protects skin during outdoor viewing and while walking between sites.
Comfortable closed-toe shoesEssential
Pavement and dock surfaces are uneven; comfortable shoes make boarding and walking easier.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated in Hawaiian sun is essential—refill before the tour or bring a bottle to refill at stops.
Light rain jacket or windbreaker
Showers can pop up any season; a packable jacket keeps you comfortable during coastal breezes.
Common Questions
Is admission to the USS Arizona Memorial included?
Yes—this tour includes National Park Service admission and the Navy shuttle to the memorial as described.
Can I use a wheelchair or stroller on the tour?
Yes—the tour and the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center are wheelchair accessible, and transportation can accommodate mobility needs.
How long is the overall tour and how much time at Pearl Harbor?
The full itinerary is approximately five hours, with about two hours at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and memorial segments as scheduled by the Park Service.
Are hotel pickups available?
Yes—hotel pickup in Waikiki and select locations is offered; specify your pickup point when booking.
Can I take photos at the USS Arizona Memorial?
Photography is allowed in most outdoor areas, but follow NPS guidelines and respect moments of silence and restricted zones.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes—children can attend; however, the documentary and memorial content are solemn and may be intense for very young kids.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking but standing during memorial viewing and short neighborhood walks.
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