Oahu: Pearl Harbor, Arizona Memorial & Honolulu City Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Oahu, chances are visiting Pearl Harbor is on your list—it’s a place filled with history and reflection that can be deeply moving. We’ve looked into this particular tour offered by E NOA Corporation, which combines a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial with a sightseeing jaunt through downtown Honolulu. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler or someone wanting a well-organized, educational experience, this tour has a lot to offer.

What we especially like about this experience is its balanced approach—it’s not just a somber visit, but also a chance to get a good overview of Honolulu’s key sights with a knowledgeable guide. Plus, the price point of $59 per person makes it pretty accessible for most travelers. But, like all tours, it’s not without some considerations; the planned time to visit the Arizona Memorial can sometimes be affected by external factors like weather, which might impact your experience.

This tour tends to suit travelers who appreciate structured, informative outings and are okay with a decent amount of group time and sightseeing. If you’re after a deeply personal or independent exploration, you might find the group setting a bit limiting. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those who want a taste of history mixed with a scenic city tour.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-organized at $59, offering good value for a half-day experience.
• Expert guides who are knowledgeable, funny, and respectful, making history come alive.
• Visit to the USS Arizona Memorial is included, but weather can sometimes impact access.
• Comprehensive city tour of downtown Honolulu, covering iconic landmarks like Iolani Palace and Aloha Tower.
• Pickup and drop-off from Waikiki makes logistics hassle-free.
• Accessibility is available, including wheelchair access, but be prepared for some mobility considerations at the memorial.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Tour

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Waikiki, a real plus for easing the logistics of getting to Pearl Harbor. From there, you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned van to Pearl Harbor itself. The overall duration is about 5.5 hours, which means you’ll get a substantial look at both historic and modern Honolulu without feeling rushed.

Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial

The highlight of the tour is the ride on a navy launch to the Arizona Memorial. This is a deeply emotional experience that leaves many visitors reflective and moved. The memorial perches above the sunken battleship from the 1941 attack, and it’s a powerful sight. The tour includes entry to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and the USS Arizona Memorial Program, ensuring you get the full story.

However, some reviews point out that weather can be a factor—if winds are too strong or conditions aren’t ideal, the boat ride might be canceled. One traveler shared, “we couldn’t go out to the USS Arizona because of wind, but the navy allowed us to see other exhibits and memorials, which was still meaningful.” It’s good to keep this in mind, especially if visiting during stormier months.

The Memorial Experience

Most visitors find the memorial visit to be very moving and educational. People often comment on how respectful and informative the guides are. One review described it as “amazing, educational, and emotional,” emphasizing how impactful the site is, especially for veterans or those with a personal connection to history.

Exploring Downtown Honolulu

After the Pearl Harbor visit, your guide will take you on a historical tour of downtown Honolulu. You’ll see Iolani Palace, the State Capitol, King Kamehameha Statue, and Aloha Tower—each offering a window into the city’s past and present. The guides are praised for their storytelling skills, making these landmarks come alive with stories and context.

A common sentiment in reviews is appreciation for how well-organized and informative the city tour is. One traveler noted, “Our guide was entertaining and knowledgeable,” adding that they learned about what it was like to live on the island during wartime.

More Great Tours Nearby

Additional Notes on Logistics

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a huge convenience. You’ll want to be at your pickup point at least 5 minutes early. The group size varies but generally feels manageable, and the tour is accessible for wheelchairs.

Practical Tips

• Bring your passport or ID card, as it’s required for visiting the memorial.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes—you’ll be walking and standing for a good part of the tour.
• No luggage or large bags are allowed at the memorial, so plan accordingly.
• Remember, shirt and shoes are required for boarding the memorial boat, and swimwear and bags are not permitted.
• It’s advisable to reserve your spot in advance—you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before.

The Authentic Voice from Travelers

Reviews paint a clear picture: most visitors find this tour valuable and memorable. One said, “Nani was funny and full of information,” and others praised the guides for their knowledge and personality. Several reviews highlight the emotional impact of the memorial, describing it as “very moving” and “a great experience.”

Some even point out minor issues, like the timing constraints—there’s a lot to see at Pearl Harbor, and sometimes, due to external factors, you may not get to see everything planned. One reviewer suggested that more flexibility would improve the experience, especially if boat rides are canceled.

What’s the Downside?

The main potential drawback is the uncertainty of weather affecting the boat ride to the Arizona Memorial. While the tour still offers access to exhibits and other memorials, missing the actual boat trip can be disappointing. Also, some visitors mentioned that short sightseeing stops mean you might not get much time to take photos or explore on your own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting a comprehensive, guided overview of Pearl Harbor and Honolulu’s landmarks. If you’re looking for a deep, personal memorial experience, some might prefer to explore independently or with a private guide. But if you want a well-organized, educational tour with convenience, this tour fits the bill.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a good balance between history, sightseeing, and ease of logistics. It offers a meaningful chance to honor those who served at Pearl Harbor while also discovering Honolulu’s key sights. The guides are often praised for their knowledge, humor, and respectful approach, which makes the experience both educational and engaging.

At $59, it’s priced competitively for what you receive—a combination of memorial access, city sightseeing, and expert narration. For most travelers, especially those with limited time or who prefer guided excursions, it’s a solid option.

If you’re okay with some potential weather-related adjustments and appreciate a structured, informative journey, this tour will likely meet your expectations and leave you with lasting memories.

FAQs

Will I be able to visit the USS Arizona Memorial?
Most likely, yes. The tour includes boat tickets and entry, but weather conditions such as high winds can sometimes prevent boat trips. If that happens, you’ll still see the exhibits and other memorials, which are meaningful in their own right.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 5.5 hours, including pickup, travel, and sightseeing. You’ll have time to absorb the sites without feeling rushed.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, including at the memorial and on the bus. Just be aware that some walking may be required at certain sites.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and clothes. Remember, large bags aren’t permitted at the memorial, so pack light.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s flexible and offers peace of mind if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically geared towards children, families interested in history and respectful memorial visits will find it appropriate. Just consider the walking involved and the somber nature of the site.

This Pearl Harbor and Honolulu tour provides a respectful, well-organized way to learn about a pivotal moment in history while exploring the island’s capital. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a convenient, educational experience—worth considering in your Hawaii itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: