Battleships of World War II Departing From Waikiki Area

Waikiki’s shoreline has long been a witness to the power and might of America’s naval forces. During the tumultuous years of World War II, the area played host to the departures of mighty battleships like the USS Missouri, which would go on to play crucial roles in the Pacific Theater. Though these formidable vessels have since faded from the horizon, their legacy lives on, drawing visitors to explore the USS Missouri Memorial and uncover the rich naval history that’s forever intertwined with this iconic Hawaiian destination.

Key Points

• The USS Battleship Missouri, which saw action in World War II, is included as part of the tour and can be visited on-site.
• The Pearl Harbor National Memorial, including the USS Arizona Memorial, offers visitors a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made during the December 7, 1941 attack.
• The tour provides transportation from Waikiki hotels to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where guests can access the Arizona Memorial and Missouri Memorial.
• Visitors can learn about Hawaii’s royal history and the significance of the Pearl Harbor attack through the expert narration provided by the tour guide.
• The tour does not include museum visits, but visitors can consider the Complete Pearl Harbor Experience for a more comprehensive tour of the historical sites.

Tour Overview

This small-group tour from Waikiki to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial offers a personal experience, with a maximum of 15 participants.

Visitors will explore historic sites like the USS Oklahoma Memorial and USS Arizona Memorial, learning about the pivotal events of December 7, 1941.

The air-conditioned vehicle provides pickup and drop-off service in Waikiki, and admission to the Arizona Memorial Boat and USS Battleship Missouri is included.

Shuttle service from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to the USS Missouri Memorial is also provided, along with expert narration on the landmarks and Hawaii’s royal history.

Inclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup and drop-off service from Waikiki hotels.

Admission to the Arizona Memorial and USS Battleship Missouri is covered, along with a shuttle from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to the Missouri Memorial.

The tour includes admission to the Arizona Memorial and USS Battleship Missouri, along with a shuttle to the Missouri Memorial.

The guide provides the entry tickets and expert narration on the historical landmarks and Hawaii’s royal family.

However, guests must pay for their own meals, as there are on-site dining options available.

Purses and bags aren’t allowed inside Pearl Harbor, though clear plastic bags and bags with medical equipment are permitted for a $7 storage fee.

Restrictions and Guidelines

Purses and bags aren’t allowed inside the Pearl Harbor National Memorial; however, storage is available for a $7.00 fee. Clear plastic bags are permitted, and bags containing medical equipment are also allowed.

Visitors should be aware that smoking is prohibited on the visitor center grounds and memorial. While on-site dining options are available, meals are at the expense of the individual.

It’s important to maintain respectful silence while on the USS Arizona Memorial. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking for about four city blocks. Swimwear isn’t permitted.

Tour Logistics

Most Waikiki hotels offer pickup service for this tour, though Southwest and Hawaiian Airlines travelers should follow specific instructions. The tour starts at 7:00 AM, but it isn’t wheelchair accessible, so it’s recommended for travelers able to walk 4 city blocks.

The tour guide encourages respectful silence on the USS Arizona Memorial. Additionally:

• Confirmation is received at booking, and infant seats and service animals are allowed.

• This tour doesn’t include museum visits, so consider the Complete Pearl Harbor Experience for that.

• Tipping the guide in cash is appreciated, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

• Sites may close due to weather, and comfortable shoes are recommended, but no swimwear is allowed.

Additional Information

Confirmation is received at booking, allowing travelers to plan their trip with confidence.

Infant seats and service animals are permitted, accommodating diverse needs.

While the tour doesn’t include museum visits, travelers seeking a more comprehensive experience can consider the Complete Pearl Harbor Experience.

Tipping guides in cash is appreciated, though not required.

Travelers should be aware that free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Weather may cause site closures, so comfortable shoes are recommended, and swimwear isn’t allowed on the excursion.

The USS Oklahoma Memorial

The USS Oklahoma Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

The USS Oklahoma Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

Located near the USS Arizona Memorial, this site honors the 429 sailors and Marines who perished when the USS Oklahoma capsized.

Visitors can:

• Reflect on the sacrifices made during the fateful day.

• Observe the symbolic black granite wall inscribed with the names of those who died.

• Walk the memorial’s circular path, representing the ship’s final resting position.

• Appreciate the serene setting overlooking the harbor.

• Understand the pivotal role the USS Oklahoma played in the events of Pearl Harbor.

The USS Arizona Memorial

Situated within the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, the USS Arizona Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the fateful events that unfolded on December 7, 1941.

Visitors can take a boat ride to the memorial, which straddles the sunken hull of the USS Arizona. Beneath the surface lie the remains of 1,177 sailors and Marines who perished during the surprise Japanese attack.

The memorial’s architecture evokes a sense of solemnity, as a marble wall inscribed with the names of the fallen serves as a somber tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Exploration of this hallowed site provides a profound connection to history.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Far Is Pearl Harbor From Waikiki?

Pearl Harbor is located about 8 miles west of Waikiki, which takes around 30-45 minutes to travel by tour bus or private vehicle. The exact travel time can vary depending on traffic conditions.

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather during the tour is usually pleasant, with sunny skies and mild temperatures. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and avoid swimwear, as the tour sites require a respectful dress code.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Meals are at the participant’s own expense, though on-site dining options are available. Bringing your own food and drinks is not permitted, as the Pearl Harbor National Memorial has restrictions on what can be brought inside the visitor center grounds.

Is Photography Allowed on the USS Arizona Memorial?

Photography is allowed on the USS Arizona Memorial, but visitors are asked to be respectful and keep it quiet. Visitors should follow the guide’s instructions and avoid disrupting the solemn atmosphere of the memorial.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

You don’t need any special equipment for the Pearl Harbor tour. The company provides all the necessary tickets and transportation. Just bring a small, clear plastic bag for personal items and wear comfortable shoes.

The Sum Up

The battleships of World War II that departed from the Waikiki area played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater. Visitors can explore the USS Missouri Memorial at Pearl Harbor, which stands as a testament to the bravery of those who served. The proximity of Waikiki to these historic sites allows for a convenient and enriching experience for history enthusiasts.