Honolulu’s rich history comes alive on this comprehensive tour through the city’s most iconic landmarks. Explore the harrowing events of December 7, 1941, at the Pearl Harbor National Park and the somber USS Arizona Memorial. Then, discover the city’s regal past as you wander the halls of Iolani Palace and marvel at the towering King Kamehameha Statue. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll uncover the legacies of Hawaii’s monarchs and gain a deeper understanding of the islands’ captivating heritage. This small-group experience promises an immersive journey that will leave you eager to uncover more of Honolulu’s profound stories.
Key Points
- This comprehensive tour covers the Pearl Harbor historic site, USS Arizona Memorial, and a city tour of Honolulu’s iconic landmarks and neighborhoods.
- Guided by a professional historian, the tour provides insights into American and Hawaiian history, including the December 7, 1941 attack.
- The tour includes admission to the USS Arizona Memorial, Road to War Museum, and Attack Museum, offering an immersive and educational experience.
- Highlights of the Honolulu city tour include the Iolani Palace, King Kamehameha Statue, and Ala Moana Center, showcasing the city’s rich history and culture.
- The tour is competitively priced, offers convenient pickup options, and is a popular choice due to its knowledgeable guides, transportation, and overall execution.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This comprehensive Honolulu tour package offers visitors an opportunity to explore the historic Pearl Harbor site and discover the captivating city of Honolulu.
Priced competitively from €61.95 to €72.88 per person, the 6-hour tour provides a compelling mix of iconic landmarks and insightful commentary. Travelers can enjoy a small group experience, with free hotel pickup in Waikiki and the option for airport or harbor pickup for an additional fee.
The tour includes admission to the USS Arizona Memorial, the Road to War Museum, and the Attack Museum, as well as a guided city tour showcasing Honolulu’s rich history and cultural significance.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Oahu.
Itinerary and Highlights
The tour kicks off with pickup from various locations, including the Honolulu Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, the USS Arizona Memorial, and Honolulu Harbor, allowing participants to seamlessly join the experience.
Visitors then embark on a captivating journey through Honolulu’s most iconic landmarks, including the Aloha Tower, Iolani Palace, and the Queen Liliuokalani Statue, offering a glimpse into Hawaii’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The itinerary also includes stops at the Hawaii State Capitol, the King Kamehameha Statue, the Eternal Flame Memorial, and the bustling neighborhoods of Downtown Honolulu and Kakaako, culminating at the Ala Moana Center, a popular shopping destination.
- Discover the only royal palace in the United States, the Iolani Palace.
- Explore the headquarters for the iconic TV series, Hawaii Five-0.
- Learn about the significance of the Eternal Flame Memorial, honoring those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor.
Experience and Learning
Guided by a professional historian, participants embark on a captivating journey through American and Hawaiian history, exploring the profound significance of the Pearl Harbor attack and delving into the legacies of the Hawaiian monarchs.
As the tour unfolds, visitors are treated to a powerful video that transports them back to the fateful day of December 7, 1941, when the Japanese launched their surprise assault on Pearl Harbor.
The learning experience doesn’t end there, as the tour also showcases the iconic Iolani Palace, the only royal residence in the United States, and provides an insightful look into Hawaii’s statehood and its transition from a kingdom to a modern state.
Inclusions and Recommendations
The tour package includes entry to the USS Arizona, the Road to War Museum, the Attack Museum, and a comprehensive Honolulu City Tour, providing visitors with a well-rounded and immersive experience.
Travelers are recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera to capture the memorable sights, and have a credit card and cash on hand for any purchases or gratuities.
Plus, it’s advisable to pack water and dress appropriately for the weather conditions, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor activities.
Visitors should also note that large bags aren’t permitted, but a bag drop-off service is available at the museum.
The tour offers:
- Entrance to the USS Arizona, Road to War Museum, and Attack Museum.
- A comprehensive Honolulu City Tour.
- Convenient bag drop-off service at the museum.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this tour, awarding it an impressive 4.5-out-of-5 rating based on 151 reviews. Guests rave about the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who bring the history of Pearl Harbor and Honolulu to life.
The transportation also earns high marks, with 4.8/5 for both the guide and the vehicles. Customers emphasize the seamless organization, with a perfect 5/5 score for the tour’s overall execution.
Several reviewers recommend eating before the Pearl Harbor visit, as time is limited for dining. But all agree this is an informative and enjoyable excursion, providing a comprehensive look at this iconic Hawaiian destination.
Pearl Harbor National Park
At the heart of this Honolulu city tour lies the iconic Pearl Harbor National Park, where visitors can explore the site of one of the most pivotal moments in American history.
The tour allows guests to walk in the footsteps of history, seeing the powerful story of the 1941 attack that propelled the United States into World War II.
Highlights include:
- The USS Arizona Memorial, which straddles the sunken remains of the battleship and pays tribute to the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives.
- The Road to War Museum, which provides a rundown of the events leading up to the attack.
- The Attack Museum, which offers a visceral, first-hand account of the fateful day through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays.
USS Arizona Memorial
Visitors to the USS Arizona Memorial can’t help but feel a profound sense of solemnity as they gaze upon the serene waters that conceal the final resting place of over 1,000 sailors and marines. Constructed directly above the sunken battleship, the memorial’s simple yet striking design serves as a poignant tribute to those who perished during the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor. Guests have the opportunity to learn about the historical significance of the site through informative exhibits and a documentary film that recounts the events of that fateful day.
| Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| Reflection | Stand in silent reverence as you pay respects to the fallen. |
| Education | Discover the events and impact of the Pearl Harbor attack. |
| Contemplation | Reflect on the sacrifices made and the resilience of the human spirit. |
Honolulu City Tour
Alongside the solemn experience at the USS Arizona Memorial, the Honolulu City Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the vibrant history and cultural richness of Hawaii’s capital.
The tour showcases a diverse array of iconic landmarks, from the grandeur of Iolani Palace – the only royal palace on American soil – to the awe-inspiring King Kamehameha statue.
Guests will also:
- Discover the stunning architecture and unique blend of Asian and Western influences that define Downtown Honolulu.
- Explore the bustling Ala Moana Center, a premier shopping destination and the world’s largest open-air shopping mall.
- Gain a deeper appreciation for Hawaii’s transition from a monarchy to statehood through the tour’s expert narration and immersive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring a Backpack or Large Bag to the Tour?
No, large bags are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator advises leaving large bags at the hotel or in a designated bag drop-off area, as the tour focuses on the Pearl Harbor experience without the distraction of bulky items.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code, but the tour recommends wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Avoid bringing large bags, as they’re not allowed inside the sites. Dressing respectfully is encouraged to enhance the meaningful historical experience.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
There are some restrictions on photography during the tour. Visitors can take photos at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, but filming and photography are prohibited aboard the USS Arizona Memorial out of respect for those who lost their lives.
Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Time During the Visit?
Guests can typically leave the tour group at any time during the visit, though it’s recommended to stick with the group to ensure they don’t miss key highlights and the return transportation. Advance notice to the guide is appreciated.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour operator typically offers a fixed tour duration. However, some tours may allow visitors to extend their stay for an additional fee, providing more time to explore the historical sites at their own pace.
Recap
This comprehensive tour offers a profound exploration of Honolulu’s history.
Visitors will explore the events of Pearl Harbor, pay respects at the USS Arizona Memorial, and discover the iconic landmarks of the city.
With knowledgeable guidance and convenient transportation, this small-group experience provides an immersive and insightful journey through Hawaii’s rich heritage and the legacies of its monarchs.
