The Pearl Harbor Arizona Tour is a must-do experience for visitors to Honolulu. It takes guests on a poignant 4-hour journey through the history of World War II, starting with convenient transportation from the airport. Along the way, they’ll explore the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, board a boat to the USS Arizona Memorial, and learn about key WWII sites in downtown Honolulu. This tour offers an in-depth look at one of the most significant events in American history, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of the past.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 4-hour tour exploring historic Pearl Harbor, starting and ending at the Honolulu International Airport with transportation provided.
- Visit the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to explore interactive exhibits and artifacts, and take a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial.
- Discover key WWII sites during a narrated drive through historic downtown Honolulu, including Punchbowl National Cemetery and Iolani Palace.
- Flexibility for guests to explore the airport before or after the tour, with hassle-free transportation arrangements.
- Important considerations include tour duration, accessibility, and restrictions on prohibited items at the Visitor Center.
Overview of the Tour
The Pearl Harbor Arizona Tour is a comprehensive 4-hour experience that allows visitors to explore the historic site and gain a deeper understanding of the tragic events that unfolded on December 7, 1941.
Starting from Honolulu International Airport, the tour takes guests to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where they can interact with exhibits and artifacts.
The highlight is the boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, which pays tribute to the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives.
The centerpiece of the tour is the solemn boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, honoring the 1,177 crew members killed.
Along the way, a narrated drive through downtown Honolulu showcases key WWII sites and landmarks.
The tour is an immersive and educational journey.
Looking for more options in Honolulu? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Highlights of the Itinerary
Visitors begin their Pearl Harbor adventure at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.
First, they visit the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where interactive exhibits and historical artifacts bring the events of December 7, 1941, vividly to life.
Next, guests embark on a somber boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, which pays tribute to the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives in the attack.
The narrated drive through historic downtown Honolulu then reveals key WWII sites and landmarks, including the Punchbowl National Cemetery, Iolani Palace, and the iconic King Kamehameha Statue.
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Explore the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center’s captivating exhibits.
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Sail to the hallowed USS Arizona Memorial.
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Discover Honolulu’s historic WWII landmarks.
Transportation and Airport Accommodations
Travelers begin their Pearl Harbor adventure at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. The tour includes convenient transportation to and from the airport, ensuring a seamless start and end to the experience.
Once gathered, the group embarks on a narrated drive through historic downtown Honolulu, exploring key WWII sites and landmarks like the Punchbowl National Cemetery and Iolani Palace. This ensures guests make the most of their time, while also providing the flexibility to explore the airport before or after the tour.
With the hassle of transportation handled, guests can focus on the immersive Pearl Harbor experience.
Attractions and Visitor Center
Upon arriving at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, guests enjoy interactive exhibits and historical artifacts that bring the events of December 7, 1941 to life.
The center offers a poignant experience:
The center offers a poignant experience, immersing visitors in the solemn history of the Pearl Harbor attack.
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View the moving "Road to War" exhibit, chronicling the lead-up to the attack.
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Stand in solemn reflection at the USS Arizona Memorial, accessible by a short boat ride, honoring the 1,177 crew members lost.
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Explore the Pacific Aviation Museum, showcasing WWII aircraft and the role of aviation in the conflict.
Visitors depart the center with a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in history.
More Great Tours NearbyThe USS Arizona Memorial
The centerpiece of the Pearl Harbor tour is the USS Arizona Memorial, a revered tribute to the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives on that fateful day. Visitors take a short boat ride to reach the memorial, which straddles the sunken battleship. Below the surface, the remains of the Arizona and its crew lie undisturbed. At the memorial, guests can reflect on the sacrifices made and learn about the attack through informative exhibits.
| When | Where | Cost | Duration |
|——|——-|——|———-|
| Daily | USS Arizona Memorial | Included | 30 minutes |
| 7 am – 5 pm | Pearl Harbor | Free | – |
| – | World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument | – | – |
| – | Oahu, Hawaii | – | – |
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Guided Commentary and Narrated Drives
As part of the Pearl Harbor tour, guides provide detailed commentary to enhance the visitor experience. They share captivating stories about the attack and its historical significance, bringing the events to life.
The narrated drive through downtown Honolulu highlights key WWII sites and landmarks, including:
Narrated drives through downtown Honolulu showcase key WWII sites, including Punchbowl National Cemetery and Iolani Palace.
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Punchbowl National Cemetery, where many fallen soldiers are laid to rest
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Iolani Palace, the former royal residence of Hawaiian monarchs
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King Kamehameha Statue, a tribute to the unifier of the Hawaiian Islands
The guided commentary and scenic drives offer a comprehensive and immersive tour, leaving visitors with a deeper understanding of Pearl Harbor’s history.
Important Considerations and Restrictions
Visitors to the Pearl Harbor tour should keep in mind several important considerations and restrictions. The tour duration is 4 to 5 hours, including travel time, so guests need to plan accordingly. Plus, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. To ensure an enjoyable experience, visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a hat and sunscreen, and stay hydrated. Certain items are prohibited inside the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, such as backpacks, food, and drinks. Upon arrival, guests should plan to be at the airport at least 30 minutes before the tour start time.
| Item | Allowed | Not Allowed |
| ——— | ——- | ———– |
| Backpacks | ✗ | ✓ |
| Food | ✗ | ✓ |
| Drinks | ✗ | ✓ |
Preparation and Meeting Details
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, guests should arrive at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport at least 30 minutes before the tour start time. This allows ample time for check-in and getting situated.
Guests should arrive at the airport at least 30 minutes before the tour start time to allow time for check-in and preparation.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor activities.
Plus, large bags and backpacks are prohibited inside the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, so guests should plan accordingly.
Following these preparation steps will help make the Pearl Harbor Arizona Tour a memorable and hassle-free experience.
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Arrive 30 minutes early
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Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire
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Leave large bags and backpacks at home
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Camera on the USS Arizona Memorial?
Yes, visitors can bring their cameras on the USS Arizona Memorial. However, they’ll need to keep in mind that large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside the visitor center, so they’ll need to pack light.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Military Personnel?
Yes, military personnel can receive discounts on this tour. According to the tour details, specific discounts for active duty or retired military personnel are not mentioned, but customers are encouraged to inquire about any available military discounts when booking.
Can I Purchase Food and Drinks During the Tour?
No, food and drinks aren’t allowed on the boat to the USS Arizona Memorial. However, there are snack bars and restaurants at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center where you can purchase food and drinks before or after the tour.
How Accessible Is the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center for Mobility-Impaired Visitors?
The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is not fully accessible for wheelchair users. Visitors with mobility impairments may have difficulty navigating some areas. It’s recommended to check accessibility details before booking the tour.
Is There a Designated Meeting Point at the Airport for the Tour?
The tour has a designated meeting point at the Honolulu International Airport (HNL). Passengers should arrive at the airport at least 30 minutes before the tour start time and meet the guide at the specified location.
The Sum Up
The Pearl Harbor Arizona Tour from HNL Airport offers a comprehensive and moving experience for visitors to Honolulu. It provides an educational journey through World War II history, from the interactive exhibits at the Visitor Center to the solemn boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial. With convenient transportation and guided commentary, this tour is a must-do for anyone interested in understanding the legacy of Pearl Harbor.
You can check availability for your dates here:More City Tours in Honolulu
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