If you’re planning a trip to Honolulu, you’ve probably come across this popular tour that promises to cover the key sights at Pearl Harbor along with a city tour of Honolulu itself. We haven’t personally taken the experience, but with thousands of reviews and detailed info available, it’s clear this is a well-loved option for visitors wanting a meaningful, comfortable, and guided overview of the area.
What we really appreciate about this tour is its combination of history and sightseeing. You get to visit the iconic USS Arizona Memorial, which is a deeply moving experience, while also exploring other significant sites like Iolani Palace and the King Kamehameha statue. Plus, the large coach with air conditioning makes the long day more comfortable, especially in warm weather.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour can be quite packed—some reviews mention a lot of walking and busy sites, meaning it’s best suited for those ready for a full, active day. And while the tour offers some upgrades to improve the experience, be aware that the standard ticket involves some waiting, especially for Pearl Harbor tickets. This tour is ideal for history buffs and travelers who want a thorough, guided introduction to Honolulu and Pearl Harbor but may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a very relaxed or highly personalized experience.
This tour is a solid pick for those who value expert narration, organized logistics, and a good balance of historical sites and city sights. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with a group, want to maximize your time efficiently, and enjoy a comfortable ride between sites.
Key Points
- Comprehensive experience combining Pearl Harbor and Honolulu city highlights
- Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and hotel pickup options
- Flexible upgrades available, including visits to the USS Missouri and Aviation Museum
- Rich commentary from knowledgeable guides enhances understanding
- Tickets to the memorial are guaranteed with advance booking
- Busy schedule, so prepare for a full day with significant walking and sightseeing
What to Expect from the Itinerary
This tour covers both the emotional and historical core of Pearl Harbor and the vibrant sights of Honolulu. Here’s how the day generally unfolds:
Planning more time in Honolulu? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
USS Arizona Memorial
The tour kicks off with the visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, the most iconic part of Pearl Harbor. You’ll watch a 23-minute documentary film that sets the scene, then take a shuttle to the memorial itself. As one of the most poignant sites, many reviewers mention how moving this experience is. You’ll get a chance to pay respects and see the underwater resting place of the sunken battleship.
Pro tip: Admission to the Arizona Memorial is guaranteed, either via advance tickets or on-site, but there’s a small fee ($1.57) for the documentary and shuttle. Some visitors have noted that waiting in standby lines can be a bit frustrating—so booking in advance is a real plus.
Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and Museums
Next, you’ll visit the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Visitor Center, where exhibits and grounds give broader context to the attack and its aftermath. It’s a chance to learn more about the events that changed history, with plenty of display areas and memorabilia.
Optional Upgrades: Battleship Missouri & Aviation Museum
The tour offers optional upgrades—these can be purchased at booking or on the day. The USS Missouri is a highlight for history fans, being the site where Japan’s surrender was signed. Many reviews mention how insightful and impressive the ship is, especially for those interested in naval history.
The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is another upgrade, housed in Hangar 79, which survived the attack. Visitors rave about the exhibits, especially the outdoor pavilion and indoor hangars, which showcase aircraft and stories from WWII. If you’re a plane buff or just curious about military aviation, this is a worthwhile addition.
Honolulu City Tour & Punchbowl Cemetery
After Pearl Harbor, the tour transitions into a city highlight reel. You’ll pass by landmarks like Iolani Palace, the King Kamehameha statue, and the Punchbowl National Cemetery. The driver guide offers insights into Hawaiian culture and history, making this part educational and engaging.
Many reviews point out that the city tour provides a nice mix of historical and cultural context, with an extended stop at the King Kamehameha statue. Some mention that the city tour can feel a bit brief or shallow, but it’s enough to give a good overview.
Timing and Group Size
The entire experience lasts between 5 to 9 hours, depending on options chosen and traffic. With a maximum group size of 50 travelers, the experience is sizable but still manageable for personalized commentary. The tour starts early at 8:00 am, so arriving promptly helps maximize your day.
The Value and Practicalities
Pricing at around $94 per person is reasonable given the scope of the experience and inclusions. The tour covers all taxes, fees, fuel surcharges, and park entrance costs, so what you see is fairly transparent. The upgrades to visit the Missouri and Aviation Museum add to the value if you’re interested in a more comprehensive experience.
Many travelers mention the quality of the guides and drivers as a standout feature; reviews like “Kimmo was a great guide,” highlight their knowledge and friendliness. The bus is described as clean and comfortable, with bottled water provided, which is a thoughtful touch.
On the downside, some reviewers express frustration about waiting in lines or feeling they didn’t get enough time at certain sites. For example, one reviewer criticizes the standby line for the Arizona tickets, which impacted their schedule and prevented them from seeing the Aviation Museum.
If you have mobility concerns, note that bags are not allowed at the memorial, but storage is available for a small fee. However, accessibility for those with mobility aids isn’t explicitly detailed, so it’s worth considering if that’s a concern.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is well-suited for history enthusiasts, families (with some considerations for walking), and travelers who want a guided, organized way to see major sites without the stress of planning every detail themselves. If you’re someone who appreciates narration and context, you’ll find the guides’ insights valuable.
However, if you’re looking for a super relaxed, flexible, or highly personalized tour, this might feel a bit structured. Also, if you’re traveling with someone with mobility difficulties, check the accessibility options carefully.
The Sum Up
This Deluxe Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour offers a practical, well-organized way to see some of Hawaii’s most meaningful sites. The combination of breathtaking historical memorials, informative guides, and city highlights makes it a solid choice for first-time visitors wanting a rounded experience.
The optional upgrades allow you to deepen your understanding, especially if ships or aviation history catch your interest. The tour’s emphasis on comfort and comprehensive coverage makes it a good value—especially if you want to avoid the hassle of logistics on your own.
In the end, it’s a tour that respects the gravity of Pearl Harbor while giving you a taste of Honolulu’s vibrant culture. It’s best for those who want a full, guided day, without sacrificing on meaningful sights.
Deluxe Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona Memorial & Honolulu City Tour
“Well, it wasn't worth the cost to be almost ran over by a mob of rude Caucasians whilst walking around on my cane. (I'm disabled) I didn't like the…”
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included? Yes, but only at selected hotels. Check if your accommodation qualifies when booking.
What is the tour duration? The tour lasts approximately 5 to 9 hours, depending on options and traffic.
Can I upgrade to see more sites? Yes, upgrades include the USS Missouri battleship and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
Are tickets to the Arizona Memorial guaranteed? Yes, either via advance booking or on-site, though there is a small fee for the documentary and shuttle.
Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? Bags are not allowed at the memorial, and walking is involved; check specific accessibility details before booking.
What should I bring? Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring sunglasses and a camera, and consider extra time for walking and sightseeing.
How many people are on the tour? The maximum group size is 50 travelers, which balances guided attention with group camaraderie.
What is the price? Around $94 per person, including taxes, fees, and park entrance costs.
Is food included? No, meals and snacks are not part of the tour; plan to bring your own or buy nearby.
What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
If you’re after a balanced, meaningful day with expert guides and thoughtful logistics, this tour is worth considering. Just keep in mind the potential for crowds and lines, and plan accordingly.
