Oahu: Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and City Tour

Planning a trip to Honolulu and wondering what to include in your itinerary? If history, culture, and impressive sights sound appealing, a Pearl Harbor and city tour might be just what you’re looking for. We’ve looked into this experience, offered by Roberts Hawaii Tours & Activities, and it’s clear that it offers a solid mix of poignant history and vibrant city sights—all in about five hours.

What really catches our eye about this tour are the well-organized itinerary and the knowledgeable guides—reviews are full of praise for guides who bring stories to life. Plus, for the price point of $69 per person, it delivers a lot of value, especially when you consider admission fees, transportation, and a comprehensive city overview are included.

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind. The tour involves a fair amount of walking, and the schedule can be tight, meaning you might not get as much time at each stop as you’d like. Weather can also influence the boat shuttle to the USS Arizona Memorial, so flexibility might be necessary.

This tour suits travelers who want a meaningful, guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s particularly good for those interested in U.S. military history, culture, and a quick but meaningful overview of Honolulu’s key landmarks.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines Pearl Harbor, historical landmarks, and downtown Honolulu
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and friendly approach
• All-in-one value: Includes transport, park fees, and admission—no hidden costs
• Time-efficient: Perfect for visitors with limited time but wanting depth
• Weather considerations: Boat trips are weather-dependent, so schedules might shift
• Comfort and accessibility: Suitable for most, including wheelchair users

You can check availability for your dates here:

Dive Into Pearl Harbor and Its Significance

When you book this tour, the Pearl Harbor visit is the star attraction. Starting at the visitor center, you’ll find exhibits and displays that set the stage for what’s ahead. The real impact comes when you board a Navy boat shuttle to Battleship Row, which is a moving experience, especially for those who appreciate history and remembrance.

The highlight is the USS Arizona Memorial, built above the sunken battleship where over a thousand sailors lost their lives during the attack. Reviewers like Jerelyn say, “Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial was a very emotional experience,” and others note that walking through the museum with photos and artifacts provides a deeper understanding of the attack.

This memorial isn’t just a sightseeing stop; it’s a solemn reminder of sacrifice. The experience is made even richer thanks to guides who share stories and context, making sure visitors grasp the gravity of the site. Keep in mind that weather can influence boat operations, but tours generally plan for this, and the overall experience remains impactful, even if the shuttle is temporarily unavailable.

Exploring the Rest of the Pearl Harbor Area

After the memorial, the tour takes you to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl Crater. This site offers a peaceful moment and a chance to reflect. The lush surroundings and rolling hills make it a scenic spot, and many reviews mention how meaningful it is to see a place of honor for fallen soldiers.

The tour then shifts to downtown Honolulu. Here, you’ll get a narrated drive that covers the city’s iconic sites, including Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the U.S., and the Hawaii State Capitol. Visitors love how guides point out architectural features and tell stories about local history, making the city come alive.

Reviewers frequently mention guides like Georgia and Lisa, who are praised for their friendliness, humor, and deep knowledge. Emma from Australia raves about her guide being “the most amazing,” and Donna describes her guide Loren as “fabulous.” It’s these personal touches that elevate an already packed itinerary into a memorable experience.

The Landmarks and Cultural Stops

During the city tour portion, you’ll see notable sights such as Kawaiahao Church, Liberty Bell replicas, and the statue of King Kamehameha. These aren’t just photo stops—they’re windows into Hawaii’s unique cultural heritage.

Visit the Kawaiahao Church, one of the oldest churches in Hawaii, and learn about its role in local history. The King Kamehameha statue is a must-see, symbolizing Hawaiian sovereignty and pride. From the Eternal Flame at the Capitol to the war memorials, each stop offers stories that help you understand how history shapes today’s Hawaii.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This 5-hour tour is quite comprehensive. Starting early, with pickup times around 7:40-8:15 AM from Waikiki, it’s designed for convenience, especially if you’re staying nearby. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off (at selected Waikiki hotels), transportation, and a live guide—which means you don’t have to worry about navigating or ticket lines.

The admission to the USS Arizona Memorial and the park fees are covered, giving you peace of mind and avoiding unexpected costs. However, note that food and drinks are not included, so bringing water, snacks, or a small lunch is advisable if you need a quick refreshment.

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Weather can vary, so packing sunscreen, a sun hat, a jacket, and water will help keep you comfortable. Accessibility is available, including wheelchair access, making this suitable for most visitors.

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The Experience and What Travelers Say

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides make a huge difference. Many describe guides as “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “funny,” which helps keep the tour engaging and informative. For example, Donna mentions her guide Loren as “fabulous,” and Jerelyn highlights how moving her experience at Pearl Harbor was.

Some feedback suggests that more time at certain sites, like Ford Island or the museums, would be ideal, but given the 5-hour schedule, it’s understandable that some stops are brief. Still, most find the balance good, especially considering the price.

Travelers appreciate the value for money and the effort made to include all major sites. The reviews consistently praise the well-organized logistics, the modern transport, and the smooth flow of the day.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history buffs, first-time visitors who want a quick yet rundown of Honolulu’s highlights, and those who prefer guided tours to enhance their understanding. It’s especially good if you want to skip the hassle of planning individual tickets and transportation while still getting a meaningful experience.

It’s also a solid choice if you’re traveling with a group, as the comfortable, air-conditioned transport and expert guides make the day easy and enjoyable. If you’re pressed for time yet eager to see the most important sites, this tour offers a practical, respectful, and engaging way to experience Oahu’s core historical landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and there is no indication of difficulty level beyond the moderate walking involved.

How long is the tour, and what’s included?
It lasts about 5 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off at selected Waikiki hotels, transportation, guides, park fees, and admission to the USS Arizona Memorial.

Are food and drinks included?
No, those are not included. It’s recommended to bring water, a snack, or a small lunch to stay energized during the tour.

What happens if the boat shuttle to USS Arizona can’t operate?
Weather or operational issues can affect boat rides. The tour might be adjusted, but the overall experience still includes most other highlights and educational stops.

Can I customize the tour or stay longer at any site?
This tour follows a set schedule designed to maximize coverage within 5 hours. For more time at specific locations, additional arrangements or private tours would be necessary.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, a light jacket, and sunglasses are recommended for a comfortable experience.

Final Thoughts

This Pearl Harbor and Honolulu city tour offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to experience some of Hawaii’s most significant historical and cultural sites. With highly praised guides, inclusive pricing, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, it suits travelers who want to learn, reflect, and see a lot in a short amount of time.

While the schedule is busy and weather can influence certain parts, most visitors find the experience compelling and worth the price. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply want a meaningful introduction to Honolulu, this tour provides a respectful, informative, and engaging snapshot of the islands’ past and present.

You can check availability for your dates here: