Exploring Oahu’s vibrant cityscape and historic landmarks is a highlight for any visitor. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively neighborhoods, Oahu offers a variety of city tours that reveal its past and present. Whether you’re interested in the somber significance of Pearl Harbor, the regal beauty of Iolani Palace, or a full-day dive into Honolulu’s streets, there’s an experience tailored for you. Unlike generic sightseeing, these tours are carefully curated to give authentic insights—whether it’s history, culture, or iconic sights—all in a manageable timeframe and budget.
Oahu’s tour options range from half-day adventures to all-inclusive passes, making it easy to customize your trip based on your interests and schedule. With detailed itineraries, reviews, and practical details, you can confidently choose a tour that fits your style. For example, if you’re a history enthusiast, a Pearl Harbor tour provides a deeply moving experience, while a city highlights tour offers a well-rounded look at Honolulu’s key sites.
Quick Overview
This list includes guided tours ranging from $58 to $555, focusing on Pearl Harbor, Honolulu’s most notable landmarks, and all-day passes for maximum flexibility. The tours feature museum visits, boat rides, cultural experiences, and city sightseeing, with options for small groups, expert guides, and even tours in Spanish. Each offers a different way to see Oahu’s historic and modern sides, helping you pick the best fit for your interests and schedule.
1. Oahu: Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and City Tour
At number 1 we have a comprehensive experience that combines Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona Memorial, and Honolulu’s key landmarks. This tour is a solid choice for those wanting a deep dive into Hawaii’s pivotal WWII history. It includes visits to King Kamehameha Statue, Iolani Palace, and the Hawaii State Capitol, along with the Pearl Harbor sites. The tour is known for its excellent guides—with reviews praising Georgia and Lisa for sharing engaging stories and insights.
The itinerary offers a mix of sightseeing, history, and architecture, with 10 stops and 7 drop-off points, making it easy to customize your experience. Price-wise, it’s at $69 per person for a 5-hour tour, which is quite reasonable considering the quality of sites covered. Guests often comment on the informative guides, emotional impact at Pearl Harbor, and comfortable buses. One reviewer called it “an unforgettable experience,” emphasizing the respectful and educational atmosphere.
Bottom line: This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Honolulu’s history plus the Pearl Harbor memorials, with a balanced mix of education and sightseeing.
2. Oahu: Pearl Harbor, Arizona Memorial & Honolulu City Tour
Coming in at number 2, this slightly longer 5.5-hour tour offers a combination of Pearl Harbor’s historic sites and a city tour. For $59, it’s an affordable way to see the USS Arizona Memorial and explore downtown Honolulu’s landmarks like Aloha Tower, Iolani Palace, and the Hawaii State Capitol. The tour includes a navy launch ride to the memorial, which is a highlight for many guests.
Reviewers appreciate the ease of logistics and the knowledgeable guide, Huma, who makes the somber memorials memorable. The tour’s strength is its focus on Pearl Harbor’s history combined with city highlights, making it perfect for travelers wanting a condensed yet meaningful experience. Some guests mention the cancellation of the navy boat ride due to weather, but the tour staff showed flexibility and responsiveness.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want a cost-effective, well-organized visit to Pearl Harbor with enough time to see Honolulu’s main sights, suitable for history lovers who appreciate a balanced day.
3. Oahu: Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and City Highlights Tour
At number 3, this 6-hour tour offers a slightly longer, more in-depth experience for $58 per person. It combines an Arizona Memorial visit, with stops at Iolani Palace, Kamehameha Statue, and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. The tour provides bottled water, local treats, and a meal, adding value to the experience.
Guests praise Moana and Kemo for their engaging storytelling and deep knowledge. The tour stands out for its attention to detail and inclusive extras, making it a good choice for those who want a more relaxed pace and a chance to see both historic sites and the city. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors looking for a comprehensive, guided day.
Bottom line: If you’re seeking a well-rounded city and Pearl Harbor experience with local touches, this tour offers a solid mix of education, comfort, and value.
4. Half Day Pearl Harbor with USS Arizona Memorial and City Tour
Number 4 on our list is a half-day tour focusing on Pearl Harbor’s main sites plus a quick city overview. For $59, it’s perfect for travelers with limited time—around 4 to 5 hours. It includes a visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, with a guaranteed ticket to the USS Arizona, plus a drive through downtown Honolulu.
Reviewers like the organized itinerary and the informative guide. The main advantage is getting to see the highlights without a full-day commitment, ideal for those on a tight schedule. The tour also includes a lunch option at Hughley’s Southern Cuisine, adding a nice local flavor.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a condensed, impactful visit to Pearl Harbor, with enough sightseeing to satisfy a half-day adventure.
5. Go City: Oahu All-Inclusive Pass with 45+ Things To Do
At number 5, the Go City All-Inclusive Pass offers maximum flexibility for travelers wanting to customize their trip. For $214, you get access to over 45 attractions over 2 to 7 days, including Pearl Harbor, Polynesian Cultural Center, lei-making, sunset yoga, and more.
This pass is ideal for independent travelers or families who want to plan multiple activities and see everything at their own pace. You can choose a premium luau, like the Ka Moana Luau, which features hula lessons, traditional foods, and cultural performances. Reviews highlight its value for money, with many saying they’d buy it again.
Bottom line: If you’re traveling with a flexible schedule and want to include a variety of cultural, historical, and fun experiences, this pass offers outstanding value.
6. Oahu: Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour
Number 6 provides a 5-hour guided tour blending Pearl Harbor with a city tour. Starting at $64, it includes visits to Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona Memorial, Iolani Palace, and the National Cemetery of the Pacific. The guide, Tim, is praised for his humor and storytelling.
Guests love that it combines history, culture, and scenic views in a manageable timeframe. The tour’s advantage is its personal touch and engaging guide, making learning about Hawaii’s past enjoyable. Some mention that the time at Pearl Harbor could be tighter, but overall, it offers good value.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want an informative, personable experience that covers the essential Pearl Harbor sites plus Honolulu’s highlights efficiently.
7. Oahu: USS Arizona Memorial and City Highlights Tour
Number 7 is a shorter 4-hour tour focused on Pearl Harbor’s USS Arizona Memorial plus a panoramic city tour. At $72, it appeals to travelers who prefer a quick but meaningful visit. It includes a film about Pearl Harbor and a drive past key landmarks, with Shelley and Quintin earning praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm.
This tour works well for first-timers or those with limited time. The main focus is on history and iconic sights with a relaxed pace. Some reviews note that its brief duration might not suit those wanting a deeper exploration, but it still covers the essentials.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a condensed, respectful experience with a focus on Pearl Harbor and city views.
8. HONOLULU CITY TOUR AND VULCAN – In Spanish
Number 8 stands out as the only tour in Spanish, offering a 6-hour exploration of Honolulu’s neighborhoods, financial district, and scenic points. For groups up to 14, at $555, it provides a personalized, in-depth look at the city’s landmarks and cultural sites.
The tour visits Iolani Palace, Chinatown, Diamond Head, and residential neighborhoods associated with popular TV series. It’s best suited for Spanish-speaking travelers who want a comprehensive and customized experience. The review is limited but positive, emphasizing insider knowledge and personalized attention.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for Spanish speakers seeking an immersive, private city tour, especially those interested in local culture and scenic vistas.
9. Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour from Ko Olina
Finally, number 9 offers a comprehensive 5.5-hour tour departing from Ko Olina, providing a full Pearl Harbor experience with a 23-minute documentary and the USS Arizona Memorial. It includes visits to Kamehameha Statue, Punchbowl Cemetery, and Iolani Palace, with reviews praising the informative guide and smooth logistics.
This tour is a good choice for those staying farther west and wanting a complete overview of Oahu’s key sites without the hassle of planning. The price is $79.59, and reviewers note the memorable storytelling and well-organized itinerary.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers based in Ko Olina who want a full, structured experience that combines history, culture, and scenic stops.
How to Choose the Right City Tour in Oahu
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, time, and budget. If your primary goal is to visit Pearl Harbor with depth and emotion, options like the Oahu: Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and City Tour or the Half Day Pearl Harbor tour are excellent. Those looking for comprehensive, flexible experiences might prefer the Go City Pass, which covers many attractions over multiple days.
For travelers on a tight schedule, the shorter tours—like the USS Arizona Memorial and City Highlights—offer a quick yet meaningful visit. Meanwhile, those wanting a personalized experience in Spanish will find the Honolulu City Tour and Vulcan ideal.
Consider booking early, especially during peak seasons, as popular tours fill quickly. Check if the tours include meals, guides, and transportation to maximize your experience.
Final Thoughts
Oahu’s city tours provide a diverse array of ways to explore this island’s history, culture, and modern life. For a deep, educational experience, the Pearl Harbor tours are hard to beat, especially with their moving memorials and expert guides. If you prefer a more flexible or all-encompassing adventure, the All-Inclusive Pass offers excellent value.
Whether you’re interested in history, scenic drives, or cultural insights, these tours are your best options to make the most of your time on Oahu. Booking early guarantees you’ll secure your spot and get the most out of this beautiful island’s storied streets.