The Ultimate Pearl Harbor and Circle Island Tour offers an immersive experience that combines historical exploration and natural wonders around Oahu. Guests will visit the poignant WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument, learn about Pearl Harbor’s history, and explore the island’s famous North Shore beaches and scenic lookout points. With comfort and accessibility for every traveler, this 10-hour tour promises an enriching journey through Oahu’s past and present. What makes this tour truly remarkable, however, is the way it seamlessly blends these elements to create an unforgettable adventure.
Key Points
- The 10-hour tour covers historic WWII sites like the USS Arizona Memorial and natural wonders of Oahu, including the North Shore beaches and Halona Blowhole.
- The tour package includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, USS Arizona Memorial tickets, and lunch options ranging from $10 to $40 per person.
- Guests will learn about the Pearl Harbor events at the memorial and explore educational sites like the Nuuanu Pali Lookout.
- The tour offers accessibility for wheelchair users and accommodates children aged 2 and under free of charge.
- With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, the tour is highly praised for the guide’s expertise and engaging presentation style.
Tour Overview
Although the Ultimate Pearl Harbor and Circle Island Tour spans a full 10 hours, it packs in a wealth of historic and natural sights across Oahu.
Travelers begin with a visit to the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument and the USS Arizona Memorial. The tour then ventures to the Dole Plantation, where guests can feed koi fish or enjoy frozen pineapple.
Next, the group explores the famed North Shore, including Sunset Beach, Banzai Pipeline, and Waimea Bay.
Finally, the tour stops at the Nuuanu Pali Lookout and the Halona Blowhole area, providing historical context and coastal vistas.
Looking for more options in Oahu? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour first visits the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument and the iconic USS Arizona Memorial, where guests gain profound insights into the events of Pearl Harbor.
Visitors gain profound insights into the events of Pearl Harbor at the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument and USS Arizona Memorial.
Next, it stops at the Dole Plantation, where travelers can feed koi fish or enjoy frozen pineapple.
The tour then heads to the North Shore, showcasing Sunset Beach, Banzai Pipeline, and Waimea Bay.
At the Nuuanu Pali Lookout, guests learn about the historical Battle of Nuuanu.
Finally, the tour visits the Halona Blowhole area, offering picturesque coastal views and local folklore.
Included Features
This Ultimate Pearl Harbor and Circle Island Tour includes a robust set of features to ensure a comprehensive and enriching experience.
It provides hotel pick-up and drop-off, along with a ticket to the USS Arizona Memorial. Visitors can explore top Oahu sites, with the bag storage fee at the USS Arizona Memorial included.
Lunch options ranging from $10 to $40 per person are available. To ensure a smooth experience, passengers are advised to bring their passport or ID card, as bags aren’t allowed at the Pearl Harbor visitor center, and appropriate attire is required at the USS Arizona Memorial.
Important Information
Passengers are advised to bring their passport or ID card, as bags aren’t allowed at the Pearl Harbor visitor center, with storage available for a fee of $7-$10.
Proper attire is required when visiting the USS Arizona Memorial – shirts and shoes must be worn, while swimsuits, high heels, and short skirts should be avoided.
Additionally:
-
Children 2 years and under are admitted free of charge.
-
The tour offers pickup from centralized locations in Waikiki, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
-
Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Ultimate Pearl Harbor and Circle Island Tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 35 reviews.
Travelers commended the knowledgeable, friendly, and humorous tour guide, Lisa, who received a 4.5/5 rating. The transportation provided was also well-received, earning a 4.3/5 score.
Reviewers highlighted the tour’s excellent value for money, giving it a 4.5/5 rating. Notable mentions include travelers praising Lisa’s exceptional expertise and engaging presentation style, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Exploring Pearl Harbor
As the focal point of the Ultimate Pearl Harbor and Circle Island Tour, visitors embark on a poignant journey through the historic site of the 1941 attack.
Key highlights of the Pearl Harbor experience include:
-
Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial, which stands over the sunken battleship where over 1,000 sailors perished.
-
Exploring the new Visitor Center to learn about the events leading up to and aftermath of the devastating attack.
-
Reflecting on the sacrifices made at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, a somber yet powerful experience.
Discovering Oahu’s North Shore
After exploring the somber history of Pearl Harbor, the tour journeys northward to immerse visitors in the stunning natural beauty of Oahu’s renowned North Shore.
The first stop is Sunset Beach, where crashing waves and golden sands set the stage.
Sunset Beach, where crashing waves and golden sands set the stage for a breathtaking natural display.
Next, the group visits the iconic Banzai Pipeline, famous for its massive surf breaks that draw the world’s top athletes.
At Waimea Bay, travelers can gaze upon the dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
Throughout the drive, the guide provides insights into the region’s unique culture and history, creating an enriching and memorable experience.
Nuuanu Pali Lookout and Halona Blowhole
Continuing the journey, the tour heads to the Nuuanu Pali Lookout, a historic site where visitors can gaze upon the stunning vistas of the Windward Coast.
The lookout offers:
-
Breathtaking views of the Ko’olau mountain range and the Windward Coast.
-
Insights into the Battle of Nuuanu, a pivotal event in Hawaiian history.
-
A chance to feel the powerful tradewinds that define Oahu’s climate.
Next, the tour stops at the Halona Blowhole, a natural wonder where the ocean surges through a lava rock formation, creating an impressive geyser-like display.
Travelers can explore the coastal views and local folklore surrounding this unique geological feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Wear a Swimsuit to the USS Arizona Memorial?
No, visitors cannot wear swimsuits to the USS Arizona Memorial. The dress code requires a shirt and shoes, and avoids swimsuits, high heels, and short skirts to maintain respect for the memorial site.
Is There Food Provided During the Tour?
Lunch options are available during the tour, ranging from $10 to $40 per person. However, food is not included in the tour price, so guests will need to purchase their own meals if desired.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity?
The tour allots time for each activity, though the exact durations aren’t specified. Visitors can expect to spend time at the USS Arizona Memorial, Dole Plantation, North Shore beaches, and other stops along the circle island route.
Can I Take Photos Inside the USS Arizona Memorial?
Photos are not allowed inside the USS Arizona Memorial out of respect for the fallen sailors. However, visitors can take photos outside the memorial and at other tour stops along the Circle Island route.
Will There Be Stops for Bathroom Breaks During the Tour?
The tour typically includes stops for bathroom breaks throughout the day. Travelers can use the restrooms at the various attractions and locations visited during the tour, such as the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and the Dole Plantation.
The Sum Up
The Ultimate Pearl Harbor and Circle Island Tour offers an unparalleled experience, combining the sobering history of Pearl Harbor with the breathtaking natural beauty of Oahu. Visitors can explore the Valor in the Pacific National Monument, discover the North Shore’s renowned beaches, and marvel at the stunning vistas from Nuuanu Pali Lookout and Halona Blowhole, all while enjoying the convenience and accessibility of this comprehensive tour.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Self-Guided Tours in Oahu
- Self-Guided Kayaking Discovery in Kailua, Oahu
- Oahu: Mokoliʻi Kayak Rental and Self-Guided Hike
- Oahu: Historic Honolulu Smartphone Audio Walking Tour
- Legendary North Shore Self Guided Driving Tour Adventure
- Oahu: Kaneohe Self-Guided Sandbar Kayaking Experience
- Historic Downtown Honolulu Walking Audio Tour Guide
More Guided Tours in Oahu
- Kailua Twin Islands Guided Kayak Tour, Oahu
- Oahu: Circle Island Top Sights Full-Day Tour w/ Local Guide
- Kailua 2-Hour Guided Kayaking Excursion, Oahu
- Full Day Private Hawaiian Culture Tour with Guide
- Oahu Guided Circle Island Tour, Swim w/ Turtles, Dole, Blowhole
- Self-Guided Kayaking Discovery in Kailua, Oahu
More Tour Reviews in Oahu
- Private Circle Island Tour we build your dream Itinerary
- Kahului: OGG Airport Private Transfer to Kahului City|Hotels
- Oahu: Waikiki E-Bike Ride and Manoa Falls Hike
- Oahu: Waikele Premium Outlets Roundtrip Bus From Waikiki
- Oahu: North Shore Haleiwa: Private Boat Charter
- Oahu: Honolulu Airport Private Transfer
Still browsing? Here are more Oahu experiences we've covered recently
- Private Circle Island Tour we build your dream Itinerary
- Kahului: OGG Airport Private Transfer to Kahului City|Hotels
- Oahu: Waikiki E-Bike Ride and Manoa Falls Hike
- Oahu: Waikele Premium Outlets Roundtrip Bus From Waikiki
- Oahu: North Shore Haleiwa: Private Boat Charter
- Oahu: Honolulu Airport Private Transfer
- Waikiki: Turtle Snorkeling Cruise with 20ft Jumping Platform
- Honolulu Haunts: Ghosts and Spirits Walking Tour
- Oahu: Honolulu Harbor Cruise Terminal Transfer
- Oahu: Sips & Secrets of Hawaii Pub Crawl
- Oahu: Waikiki Friday Fireworks Cruise with Snacks and Drinks
- Oahu: Waikiki Snorkel and Sailing Trip with Lunch