best pearl harbour tours

The 8 Best Pearl Harbor Tours: from budget to luxury, we have you covered

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The two most visited attractions in all of Hawaii are Pearl Harbor and the Polynesian Cultural Center . So if you’re planning a trip to the historic sites and museums at Pearl Harbor, you’re in good company. 

We’ve visited and toured Pearl Harbor multiple times, taking tours as well as just visiting on our own. I can tell you that if you’re at all interested in visiting, this should not be missed. 

To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of the best Pearl Harbor tours. We’ve covered it all — from a half day tour to a full day tour and a wide range of budgets. Plus helpful tips that are important to know before you book with a tour group. And if you’re interested in visiting without a tour, we have some need to know tips at the end of the article. 

Already know what you’re looking for? Jump to booking here: – For a 4hr small group tour of the USS Arizona, book Personalized Hawaii Vacations – For a 5hr budget friendly tour of the USS Arizona and the Pearl Harbor Visitor’s Center, book Enoa Tours – For a 6hr budget friendly and a slightly smaller group, go with Polynesian Adventures – Pack it all in with a small group in a 9hr Complete Pearl Harbor tour – Treat yourself to lunch and see it all in a 9.5hr tour with the Pearl Harbor Deluxe Tour – Not staying on Oahu? Not a problem, book a 9hr, small group, all stops tour with Hawaii Tours with inter-island flights included. – Make it personal and completely customizable by booking a private tour with Halia, choose from their 6 hour , 9 hour , or 12 hour options.

What to Consider Before Booking a Pearl Harbor Tour

Locations visited:

Pearl Harbor has four museums that you can visit, including the USS Arizona Memorial , the USS Bowfin Submarine , USS Battleship Missouri , and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum . In addition, the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is near the boat dock for the USS Arizona Memorial and it is well worth spending time there.

Some tours will only cover one or two sights while others will cover all the museums. Read the details before booking so you’re not disappointed! Other tours will take you through parts of downtown Honolulu so you can see sights like Iolani Palace or the Punchbowl Cemetery, though these are quick stops for photos and not full tours. 

Tours that cover more of the historic sites are longer and cost more.

Size of group:

We often get asked why tour prices can vary so significantly and the answer is usually dependent on the size of the group. The less expensive tours usually have a lot more people on them. That doesn’t mean they’re bad! But they do tend to move a little slower and be a little less flexible. 

Pickup locations:

Not all tours will pick up from your hotel or vacation rental. Some of the larger tour buses will pick up at set locations throughout Waikiki. Airport pickups are rare unless you have specifically booked a tour from a neighbor island ( like this tour ). 

Tour guide restrictions:

Your tour guide will not accompany you to the USS Arizona Memorial as they are prohibited from doing so. This can be a disappointment to people hoping for a full guided tour. In our experience, the best guides will give you history and information while they are driving you and during short tours at the beginning of visiting each museum. Then, you’re on your own to explore, listen, and learn.

I highly recommend the audio tour of the USS Bowfin Submarine and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. At the USS Missouri there was a tour guide on deck to answer all of our questions. 

Related read: Check out our Ultimate Oahu Travel Guide as you prepare for your trip! Consider a circle island tour to get yourself acquainted with the island early in your trip.

A Big Note About USS Arizona Memorial Tickets

One of the main reasons that people book tours is because they want to gain entrance to the USS Arizona Memorial . Unfortunately, booking a tour does not guarantee that you’ll get a ticket to see the memorial. There is a high probability that you’ll get one, but it’s not 100% guaranteed. 

Here’s why: only a set number of tickets are released in advance for the USS Arizona. Tour companies do their absolute best to secure tickets (and they are good at doing so), but there might be some instances where they miss out. It can be a huge bummer, especially if your entire reason for visiting Pearl Harbor is to visit the memorial. 

In addition, visiting the memorial requires a short boat ride. There are times when repair work is on the dock and no boat tours are running out to the USS Arizona Memorial. When that happens, you won’t be able to visit the memorial but all of the other museums and sights are still open and available to visit. 

On a personal note, the memorial is incredibly moving but I found visiting all of Pearl Harbor to be fascinating. While I would definitely be disappointed to not see the memorial, there is so much to do, see, and learn there that I still think it is worth visiting without seeing the USS Arizona memorial. 

If you’re taking a shorter tour or looking for a nice way to unwind after a day of touring and learning, check out one of our favorite sunset sails leaving from Waikiki.

The Best Pearl Harbor Tours

It can be tough to compare tours, so we’ve distilled these into some important need to know information. Note: we have included prices and these prices were accurate at the time of publishing. Click the booking button to see any updated prices.

Tours are super convenient and a great way to experience Pearl Harbor, but if you’re more of a DIY kind of traveler, read about visiting Pearl Harbor on your own .

Best Budget Friendly Pearl Harbor Tours

These tours offer an economical way to see Pearl Harbor on quick, half day excursions. At the time of publishing both of these tours were right around $50 per person . 

Salute To Pearl Harbor

This tour keeps you moving on a half day excursion to Pearl Harbor. See the USS Arizona Memorial, spend a bit of time at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, and then stop by the Aloha Tower on your way back to Waikiki. 

Tour details

• Sights visited: USS Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, Aloha Tower
• Pickup: From 6 Waikiki hotels
• Tour length: 5 hours
• Group size: up to 80 people (on a double decker bus)
• Adult price: $52 per person

Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Highlights Tour

If you are interested in seeing the USS Arizona Memorial and not spending the entire day exploring Pearl Harbor, this quick tour combines a visit to Pearl Harbor with a drive through downtown Honolulu. 

• Sights visited: USS Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, sightseeing tour of historic sights in downtown Honolulu
• Pickup: From select Waikiki hotels
• Tour length: 6 hours
• Group size: up to 50 people
• Adult price: $53 per person

Related article for budget travelers: How We Book our Hawaii Travel

Best Small Group Pearl Harbor Tours

Avoid big buses and enjoy a half day or full day out with a small group. Heading out with a small group will be more expensive, but it is a more personal tour.

Complete Pearl Harbor Historic Sights Tour

If you’re really interested in having a thorough tour of Pearl Harbor and visiting all of the museums (which we love doing!), this is a great tour. With only 12 passengers and a fun guide, you’ll enjoy spending the entire day immersing yourself in history. 

This is the tour we joined after flying in from Maui (more details on that tour below) and we thoroughly enjoyed it. 

• Sights visited: USS Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, USS Bowfin Submarine, USS Missouri Battleship, driving tour of downtown Honolulu
• Pickup: from your Waikiki hotel
• Tour length: 9 hours
• Group size: 12 passengers
• Adult price: $190 per person

Personalized Hawaii Vacations

Small group and quick tour? This checks both of those boxes! Visit the USS Arizona and spend a bit of time at the Pearl Harbor Museum before the tour drives you through downtown Honolulu on the way back to your hotel. 

• Sights visited: USS Arizona
• Pickup: Waikiki hotels
• Tour length: approximately 4 hours
• Group size: 11 people
• Adult price: $119 per person

Best Full Pearl Harbor Tour

While most visitors head to Pearl Harbor to pay their respects at the USS Arizona Memorial, there is a lot more to do and see. I get it — the first time I visited Pearl Harbor I saw the memorial, looked at a bit of information at the museum and headed home. 

What a mistake! When I finally went back and visited the other museums I was captivated. Climb through the Bowfin Submarine, walk the decks of the Battleship Missouri (Mighty Mo), and take in the aviation history at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. 

If you’re looking for a full tour that will take you to all of the museums, we have two recommendations for you: 

WWII Heroes Deluxe Pearl Harbor Tour with Lunch

Spend the day with Polynesian adventures on their deluxe tour, which includes lunch at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum cafe.

• Sights visited: USS Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, USS Missouri Battleship, USS Bowfin Submarine, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
• Tour length: 9.5 hours
• Group size: 50 people
• Adult price: $204

Again, we’re including this full tour because not only is it a great small group tour, but it’s also a fantastic full day and complete tour if you want to visit all the museums. Spend the entire day immersing yourself in history. 

Best Private Tour of Pearl Harbor

Half , full , or long day tour.

Sometimes you just want to see things at your own pace. If that’s you, consider taking a private tour with Halia. They offer 6 hour, 9 hour, or 12 hour tours with flat rate pricing for up to 10 guests. 

You can design the tour stops with your guide and they will help you to secure USS Arizona Memorial tickets, if possible. As a guide, you can expect to do 1 activity on a 6 hour tour , 2 activities on a 9 hour tour , and 3 activities on a 12 hour tour . 

Admission to the museums is not included in the tour price. 

• Sights visited: You choose!
• Pickup: Wherever you’d like!
• Tour length: 6 hours, 9 hours, or 12 hours
• Group size: up to 10 guests
• Adult price: prices start at $650

Related read for a luxurious Oahu stay: The 7 Best Luxury Hotels on Oahu

Best Pearl Harbor Tour from Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island

Hawaii tours.

If you’re staying on another island, you can absolutely do a day trip to visit Pearl Harbor. We did this tour and thoroughly enjoyed it. You can see a video of our experience above. Everything was taken care of and the day was incredibly smooth and easy. What an awesome way to visit for a day!

• Pickup: from the Honolulu airport
• Tour length: 9 hours, not including flight time
• Adult price: from $500 per person (includes airfare and airport pickup)

Do You Need to Take a Tour to Pearl Harbor?

Absolutely not. I’ve both visited on my own and taken a guided tour. While I did get significantly more from the guided tour (our tour guide was excellent, as most of them are), if you are not interested in having someone drive you around and provide you with historical facts, you can absolutely visit on your own. 

Tips for Visiting Pearl Harbor on your own

If you are planning to visit on your own, there are a few things you need to know for a successful trip:

• USS Arizona Memorial tickets must be reserved in advance. You can book them for $1 at the official website . Tickets can be booked 8 weeks in advance. If the date you want to visit is sold out, you’re not out of luck! They release additional tickets 24 hours in advance. You can get more information on when tickets are released here . If you can’t get tickets, you can try your luck by joining a standby line and waiting for availability on the boat to the memorial. 
• A shuttle to Ford island is required. If you want to visit Battleship Missouri and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, you will need to take a free shuttle to Ford Island. The shuttle leaves regularly and is easy to take. You’ll find it at the end near the USS Bowfin Submarine museum. 
• Bags are not allowed into Pearl Harbor and can either be left in your car or you can pay for bag storage.
• Passport to Pearl Harbor ticket: if you plan to visit all of the Museums, consider getting the Passport to Pearl Harbor ticket. This provides entrance to all of the museums but it does not include a USS Arizona Memorial reservation. 

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The 7 Best Pearl Harbor Tours⚓ [2024 Reviews]

Pearl Harbor is the undisputed top visitor destination in Hawaii. It is the most famous harbor in the world for a tragic reason. Many visitors take Pearl Harbor tours mainly to pay their respects at the USS Arizona Memorial .

But Pearl Harbor is also a place to celebrate America’s Naval and military successes. History lovers will enjoy taking USS Missouri tours and USS Bowfin tours. And there are many other interesting historic sites to visit on a Honolulu tour.

Whether you simply want to pay your respects to the brave heroes who died in defense of our nation or you are interested in learning more about Hawaii’s fascinating history, there is a Pearl Harbor excursion to suit your tastes.

Be sure to see our other reviews of Sunset Dinner Cruises , Oahu Luaus and Whale Watching Tours .

Best Guided Tours of Pearl Harbor

Quick answer: the 7 best rated pearl harbor tours for 2024.

• Pearl Harbor Premium Tour with Pick-Up from Waikiki
• Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and City Highlights Tour
• Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour
• Pearl Harbor Heroes Full-Day Tour
• Private Pearl Harbor Tour, Arizona Memorial and USS Bowfin
• USS Missouri and USS Arizona Pearl Harbor Private Tour
• Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour

If you would like some ideas of other things to do, please see our list of the Top 15 Things To Do In Oahu and Top 10 Things For Couples .

Pearl Harbor Tour Reviews

1. best full day tour: pearl harbor premium tour with pick-up from waikiki.

• Departure Point : Pick-up from Waikiki hotels
• Departure Time: 6:45 AM
• Duration : 9 hours
• Includes : Skip-the-line Pearl Harbor Tour, visit Punchbowl National Cemetery, and tour downtown Honolulu

This is the best tour for visitors who want to see everything related to Pearl Harbor in one day. You won’t need to worry about anything. You will be picked up from your Waikiki hotel by a luxury minibus that offers frame-less windows for the best possible panoramic views.

Aboard the minibus, you will benefit from a live narration of the history and culture of the places you see throughout the day. Smooth air-ride suspension and air-conditioning ensure you’ll enjoy a comfortable experience.

At the Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetery, you can pay your respects to a wide range of people who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Most people interred here are soldiers from World War II, but there are also close family members of those who served and a noted war correspondent who lost his life while doing his part for the war effort.

The Punchbowl is also an interesting geological feature. It is a volcanic crater created between 75,000 to 100,000 years ago and played an important part in Hawaii’s history even before it became a national cemetery. The original islanders offered sacrifices in this sacred spot. Later, it hosted a defensive gun battery. Its rim offers breathtaking views of the island.

But the highlight of this tour is the boat tour to the USS Arizona Memorial and the corresponding audio guide. Most of the servicemen who died on that fateful day in history were aboard the USS Arizona , and many still lie beneath the waves. This is a place where you can offer thanks to those who sacrificed everything so that we can live the free lives we do today.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best private tour: private pearl harbor tour, arizona memorial and uss bowfin.

• Departure Point : Restaurant 604, 57 Arizona Memorial Dr, Honolulu
• Departure Time: 9:00 AM
• Duration : 4 hours
• Includes : Private Guided tours of Arizona Memorial and USS Bowfin, all entrance fees

This tour represents the best option for someone who wants to see all that Pearl Harbor has to offer with only their own group. The first thing you will do is climb aboard a navy launch to the USS Arizona Memorial. Here you will learn about the 1,000 sailors that gave their life here. Learn about the heroic efforts to save them and the complete history of this iconic ship.

From here you will continue your day with a guided tour of the USS Bowfin. Your guide will give all the background and information on the history of this submarine.  Learn from a veteran what it is like to live aboard a submarine.

The nice thing about a private tour is the flexibility you have to customize your experience. You can spend more time in places you want to see and ask all the questions you want.

This is a fantastic tour if you want to learn about the complete history of Pearl Harbor with a private tour!

3. Best Combination Tour: Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona and City Highlights Tour

• Departure Time: 9:00 AM or 10:45 AM (dependent upon day of the week)
• Duration : 6 hours
• Includes : Skip-the-line Pearl Harbor Tour, Punchbowl National Cemetery, Iolani Palace, King Kamehameha’s statue, Kawaiahao Church, and highlights of Honolulu’s historic district

This is an ideal tour for visitors who are interested not only in the history of Pearl Harbor but also Hawaii’s royal history. This tour features Iolani Palace and King Kamehameha’s statue.

The highlight of this tour is a ride in a Navy launch to visit the USS Arizona Memorial. This monument is the grave of many brave sailors who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. An audio tour helps to immerse you in the events of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

At the USS Arizona Memorial Visitor Center, you will see military memorabilia on display and watch a film about the fateful day that changed American history. Continuing to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served our nation in the past, you will also visit the Punchbowl National Cemetery of the Pacific. This is the resting place of service men and women from several wars, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

To end off this comprehensive tour of Hawaiian history, you will see the main historic landmarks of Honolulu, including the Iolani Palace, Ali’iolani Hale (Hawaii-Five-O building), King Kamehameha’s statue, Kawaiahao Church, and the Mission Houses Museum. By the end of the day, you will have developed a better appreciation of the men and women who shaped the nation we have inherited today.

4. Best Budget Tour: Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour

• Departure Time: 8:45 AM
• Includes : Pearl Harbor Tour, Iolani Palace, Ali’iolani Hale (Hawaii-Five-O building), King Kamehameha’s statue, Kawaiahao Church, and highlights of Honolulu’s historic district

This is the best tour if you are interested in learning how Hawaii became the fiftieth state in the union. It includes a stop at the Ali’iolani Hale which was originally the home of Hawaii’s royal government but now houses the Hawaii Supreme Court.

Both here and at the Iolani Palace, you will learn about the Hawaiian monarchs, American business interests, and how the last queen was deposed to pave the way for statehood. The contributions of the royal family have not been forgotten, which is why a statue of Hawaii’s founder — King Kamehameha the Great — still stands in front of the Ali’iolani Hale.

But the main focus of this excursion is Pearl Harbor. At Pearl Harbor, you will watch a 21-minute film exploring the historical background of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Then you may decide to take an optional boat trip to visit the USS Arizona Memorial.

You will have access to the visitors center and be able to view the battleships currently anchored in Pearl Harbor alongside the submarine USS Bowfin . This is a great opportunity to take photographs of this iconic harbor and the many US Navy ships still based there today.

Related: Enjoy an Authentic Polynesian Luau – Find the Best Luau For Your Money With Our Reviews.

5. best guided tour: oahu pearl harbor heroes full-day tour.

• Duration : 9.5 hours
• Includes : Skip-the-line Pearl Harbor Tour, audio tour of USS Bowfin , guided tour of USS Missouri , and Pearl Harbor aviation museum

This is the premium tour for lovers of World War II history. If you are enthusiastic to learn as much as possible about the attack on Pearl Harbor and the role of Oahu during the war, you should take this tour.

Like other tours, you will watch a film about the attack on Pearl Harbor and then take a Navy launch over to the USS Arizona Memorial. The USS Arizona Memorial sits atop the sunken battleship where most of the men were lost during that fateful day. This is the best place to pay your respects to the brave sailors who lost their lives in the defense of our nation.

Unlike other tours, this tour also takes you to visit the famous submarine USS Bowfin where you will enjoy an audio tour and learn about the vessel’s role in the fight to control the Pacific Ocean. What’s more, you will also tour the USS Missouri , which is the ship where representatives from the Empire of Japan signed the Instrument of Surrender ending the war in 1945.

Your guided tour of the USS Missouri is likely to be the highlight of your day. They literally don’t make battleships like this anymore. The USS Missouri was commissioned in 1944 and fought at Iwo Jima and Okinawa. She also served in the Korean War and Operation Desert Storm. You will be amazed at the scale of this vast ship and learn firsthand how sailors lived at sea during wartime.

As an added bonus, this tour also includes a visit to the Pacific Aviation Museum. There you can learn all about the airplanes used by the Navy and the Japanese during World War II as well as other interesting facts about aviation.

Related: See Oahu From the Air With an Exciting Helicopter Tour – Find the Best One for Your Money With Our Reviews.

6. uss missouri and uss arizona pearl harbor private tour.

• Duration: 6 hours
• Departure: Hotel, port, or airport pickup included
• Departure Time: Varies
• Includes: USS Arizona Memorial Program, bottled water, USS Missouri tickets, certified professional driver and guide

It would be hard to find two ships that symbolize the end of World War II more than the USS Missouri and USS Arizona. The Japanese surrendered on the deck of the former, while the latter is a tomb for nearly 1000 American sailors.

The USS Missouri and USS Arizona Pearl Harbor Private Tour gives valuable insight into the destination that emits a somber remembrance for those who both survived and perished.

The tour started by the guide picking us up at our hotel, though I know they also offer the option for pickup at the port or airport, too! We then headed out to Pearl Harbor, which is one of the most important places in the world, in history.

We started out with a briefing, as well as an informative film, ‘Which Will Live in Infamy’ before actually seeing the USS Arizona Memorial.

The Memorial itself is very intense, as it’s sitting right below the water and can only be accessed by riding on a Navy vessel across the harbor.

We learned about all the lives that were lost on the ship, why it can’t be brought up to the surface, and how it’s transformed over the decades into a reef.

We then visited the USS Missouri on Ford Island, and is actually where the official of the Japanese happened, along with the signing of the peace treaty by General McArthur.

After these two moving visits, we went into downtown Honolulu to learn about Hawaii’s varied history, visiting landmarks such as the Statue of King Kamehameha (who unified the Hawaiian islands under his rule in 1810!).

I loved getting to visit Iolani Palace as well, which is the only royal building on all of United States soil!Finally, we cruised through the Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, which may be beautiful, but is also the final resting place of many US soldiers.

7. Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour

• Duration: 7 hours
• Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Departure Time: n/a
• Includes: “Road to War” and “Attack Gallery”, USS Arizona Memorial Program Shuttle boat ride tickets (based on availability), USS Battleship Missouri Memorial visit

While Hawaii is most often known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, its amazing water sports, delicious food, and unique culture, it does have its somber moments.

Right in the heart of Hawaii lies Pearl Harbor, which is filled with memories of heroes past. The Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour pays homage to this very important part of history, taking you on a journey through time.

As there’s really no easy way to meet up at Pearl Harbor, itself, the tour does come with a complimentary hotel pickup right from the lobby.

Our seasoned guides were clearly very passionate about the subject, with a serious reverence for the significance of this place and the USS Missouri and Arizona.

Each stop we made offered its own perspective on the events that unfolded, as well as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of freedom.

After watching a documentary that lasted around 20 minutes, we then took a Navy “shuttle” out to the USS Arizona Memorial which was really shocking to see in person.

No matter the age or background, I feel that the memorial that is the sunken battleship is a place that every American should visit and learn about.

The USS Missouri allowed us to see a signed version of the peace treaty that officially ended WWII, we walked in the footsteps of heroes, and got to learn all about “Mighty Mo” and her wartime background.

Just like with the other, we also wrapped up our exploration with a historic tour of downtown Honolulu where we learned about the former royalty and Polynesian culture.

Tips to Better Enjoy Your Time at Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor is one of the most historic military sites and a popular tourist destination in Hawaii. Here are some things to know before visiting Pearl Harbor:

• Hours of operation : Pearl Harbor is open every day from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Tickets : If you choose not to do a guided tour and go on your own, you can purchase tickets online in advance or at the Pearl Harbor visitor center the day of your visit. We recommend you purchase tickets in advance, as it can get very busy and you will have to wait in line to purchase tickets.
• Tour options : There are a variety of tour options available at Pearl Harbor, including a self-guided audio tour,  guided tours (which we recommend), and a boat tour.
• Transportation : Pearl Harbor is located 10 miles west of Waikiki. You can reach the site by car, taxi, Uber or public transportation.
• Must-see attractions : Some of the must-see attractions at Pearl Harbor are the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri battleship and the Pacific Aviation Museum.
• Allow enough time : You should plan to spending at least half a day at Pearl Harbor, as there is a lot to see and do. We would recommend a full day however to see everything and not feel rushed.
• Dining : There are several dining options at Pearl Harbor, including several cafés and a snack bar. You can bring in your own food and drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pearl Harbor:

• What is Pearl Harbor? Pearl Harbor is a military historic site located in Oahu that was the scene of a surprise attack by the Japanese on December 7, 1941. The attack on Pearl Harbor led to the United States entering World War II.
• What can I see at Pearl Harbor? There are several famous attractions to see at Pearl Harbor: the USS Arizona Memorial , USS Bowfin Submarine Museum , USS Missouri , and the Pacific Aviation Museum .
• Is Pearl Harbor accessible to visitors with disabilities? Yes, Pearl Harbor is accessible to visitors with disabilities, with elevators and ramps available.
• How much does it cost to visit Pearl Harbor? Admission to Pearl Harbor is free, but there is a charge for guided tours and audio guides.

Tour Guides

The Premium Tour with Pick-Up from Waikiki is our Editor's Choice for the best Pearl Harbor tour.

Robert Baker

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Hawaii (HI) » 15 Best Pearl Harbor Tours

15 Best Pearl Harbor Tours

Located on the south coast of the island of Oahu is Pearl Harbor, a place whose name mostly evokes three associations.

To some, it’s an amazing holiday destination with stunning beaches and beautiful resorts.

To others it is the headquarters of the United States Pacific Fleet.

However, the majority associate it with the devastating attack on American naval soldiers by Japanese forces one quiet Sunday morning in 1941, an onslaught that was the catalyst for the Doolittle Raid.

Whichever the case, Pearl Harbor remains a great destination with tours galore that take you to countless places of interest along Hawaii’s largest natural harbor.

The attractions span from historical to geological, beaches to golfing, resorts to gastronomy, and more.

Here are 15 best Pearl Harbor tours we think are every bit worth the ticket.

1. Hawaii: Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Small Group Tour

This skip-the-line ticket takes you on a 3-4-hour discovery of the most visited attraction in Hawaii, the USS Arizona Memorial, the resting place of sailors and Marines who perished on that fateful day in 1941.

With three departures at 8am, 10am, and midday, it starts with a narrated boat tour around the USS Arizona Memorial, before a visit to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.

Here, you will learn about the events preceding the attack and its aftermath, and get a chance to view artifacts that include photos of the battle and personal memorabilia from the soldiers.

Then, take a boat shuttle to the memorial, which was constructed over the remains of the Battleship USS Arizona to pay your respects to more than 1,000 crewmen who died in the attack.

2. Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial Tour with Pick-Up

Enjoy hotel pick-up and drop-off from any hotel in Waikiki with this tour that takes you aboard the USS Arizona Memorial.

You will get acquainted with the infamous attack and why the United States got involved in WWII.

This ticket grants you access to the “Road to War” and “Attack” museums where you can watch actual film footage of the events that transpired on that day.

Wrap up the tour with a historic touch as you tour downtown Honolulu, where you will visit iconic sites such as the Iolani Palace, where the Judiciary History Center and State Supreme Court are based.

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3. Oahu: Official USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Audio Tour

Embark on a 2.5-hour audio tour of the USS Arizona Memorial which vividly details the siege of Pearl Harbor.

You will visit the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center where you will find, among other attractions, the two world class museums, “Attack” and “Road to War”.

The award-winning tour comes with the National Park Service stamp of approval, and includes a gripping, 23-minute multilingual documentary put together by the Park.

This tour should be a feast for history buffs.

4. Passport to Pearl Harbor: Official Full-Day Ticket

This full-day ticket grants you access to the 4 historic sites at Pearl Harbor, starting with a multilingual narrated tour of the USS Arizona Memorial where you can honor the fallen at their final resting place.

From there, you will gain access to the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park to see artifacts to do with submarines.

Then, gain admission to the Pacific Aviation Museum to learn about the history of fighter planes through the years, after touring the USS Missouri where the battleship’s crucial role in history is detailed.

The tour can be done in whichever order you prefer, and also includes admission to the new Pearl Harbor Virtual Reality Center that offers three amazing virtual reality tours.

5. Honolulu: 6-Hour Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial

This 6-hour pass takes the hassle out of your trip and lets you attend to the business at hand: enjoying the attractions on offer.

Everything on this tour will be managed for you, from the round-trip transportation to and from Waikiki, to the tickets granting admission to the three main points of interest.

Whether it’s the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine, or the Submarine Museum, this pass allows you to skip the lines and make the most out of the allotted time.

The package also comes complete with a complimentary light lunch (soup or hot dog).

Take a detour through the historical Honolulu downtown as you make your way back to Waikiki.

6. Hawaii: USS Arizona Memorial & Battleship Missouri Tour

This 5-6-hour tour details the history of the Pearl Harbor attack and gives you access to two major U.S. treasures: the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Tour.

Standing over the remains of the Battleship USS Arizona, the USS Arizona Memorial is the biggest draw in Hawaii with more than 1.8 million visitors per year.

Once your visit there is done, you will take a shuttle boat to see the Battleship Missouri. This was the last American battleship built which served as an intimidating force for 5 decades before being decommissioned.

It was nicknamed the Mighty Mo and is famed for being the place the Japanese surrendered, bringing an end to WWII.

7. Pearl Harbor All Inclusive Full-Day Tour with Tickets

This is a comprehensive 7-9-hour tour that takes you on an adventure around Pearl Harbor’s biggest draws.

The beauty of it is that, in addition to the abundance of time to explore the various attractions, this also happens to be one of the smallest group tours in Oahu.

It starts with a visit to the must-see that is the USS Arizona Memorial, followed by a stop at the USS Missouri Battleship after lunch.

Then, you drive through downtown Honolulu to drink in its rich history which includes Iolani Palace, the golden statue of King Kamehameha the Great, Washington Place, and of course, the state capital.

8. USS Arizona Memorial and Aviation Museum Small-Group Tour

This small group tour takes you on an executive-level excursion of Pearl Harbor, starting with a chauffeured ride either from the airport, port, or your place of accommodation.

You will embark on a narrated boat tour around the USS Arizona Memorial and a complimentary audio guide will be provided as you explore the Aviation Museum.

The tour is not complete without a visit to the Road to War Museum and the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where you can watch actual footage of the Japanese attack on American naval soldiers and Marines.

9. Oahu 60-Minute Helicopter Tour: Doors On or Off

Hawaii’s third-largest island has a lot of rewarding experiences to offer, and one of the best ways to enjoy them is by appreciating them from an aerial perspective.

This is a 1-hour helicopter ride that flies past attractions like Diamond Head, the National Natural Monument, and round volcanic cliffs as you head to Makapu’u Lighthouse where you will find the largest lens lighthouse in the U.S.

This helicopter ride is a treat for both nature and historical lovers as it flies you over the most scenic natural and historical spots in Oahu.

You will see Ka’a’awa Valley, the place previous kings of the island called home, the gorgeous coral formations of Lanikai Beach, Ko’olau Mountains, as well as Kaneohe Bay, considered one of the most picturesque locations on earth, and much more.

10. Private Pearl Harbor Memorial Tour

A private tour of the Pearl Harbor Memorial lets you milk some perks that come with an exclusive tour – round-trip transportation (for three people), skipping the line, a fully insured vehicle, and a light lunch in front of the USS Bowfin submarine.

The ticket includes visits to the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri Battleship Memorial (covering three people) and a trip to Honolulu’s famous historical downtown.

You will also see the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and two museums – “Road to War” and “Attack” – with a complimentary cold drink to boot.

11. Oahu Day Tour: Pearl Harbor and Punchbowl Cemetery

This is a 6-hour land and sea day tour that will take you on a historical expedition of the island of Oahu, aka the Gathering Place.

It starts with a trip to the Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor, walking you through what unfolded on the morning of the attack that prompted America to join WWII.

You will then head over to the Arizona Memorial Visitor Center, where you can find historical artifacts and the film of the attack, then ride the Navy to honor the fallen soldiers at the Arizona Memorial.

From there, you will make a stop at the Punchbowl National Cemetery, before driving through the Courts of the Missing, a memorial in honor of soldiers missing from WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

The tour wraps up with an overview of Honolulu’s historic district.

12. Ultimate Pearl Harbor and Circle Island Tour

This is one of the most comprehensive tours of Pearl Harbor that gives you a little bit of everything the lagoon harbor has to offer, with a knowledgeable guide to escort you.

Take a walk through history with a trip to the WWII “Valour in the Pacific” Monument and USS Arizona Memorial.

Once you have had enough of this deeply immersing experience, you will take a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial structure to see the remains of the iconic battleship.

The 10.5-hour tour will then stop by Dole Plantation, before heading to the famous North Shore surf spots that include Waimea Bay, Banzai Pipeline, and Sunset Beach.

Then proceed to the Ni’uana Pali Lookout, the site of the ancient Hawaii Battle, before a stop at one of the most photographed locations in Hawaii, Hanauma Bay, where Elvis filmed Blue Hawaii.

13. Oahu: Full-Day Complete Pearl Harbor Experience from Waikiki

This 8-10-hour tour gives you round-trip transportation and tickets to Hawaii’s most famous attractions – the USS Missouri Battleship, the USS Bowfin submarine, and the Aviation Museum.

It’s an opportunity to see the USS Oklahoma on Ford Island and get acquainted with some rich history at the “Road to War” and “Attack” museums.

The USS Arizona Memorial is a must-visit attraction while here. Thankfully, this pass allows you to save time by skipping the long lines.

Sample American hot dogs for lunch as you bask in the magnificence of the USS Bowfin submarine docked at the ocean front, with a live guide providing narration at every one of these sites.

Enjoy a drive through downtown Honolulu and take in its myriad of attractions as you make your way from Pearl Harbor.

14. Oahu: Waikiki 20-Minute Doors On / Doors Off Helicopter Tour

This 20-minute helicopter tour gives you a bird’s eye view of the photogenic Waikiki, as a helicopter sweeps over the most eye-catching areas of this vibrant neighborhood.

The tour kicks off over Honolulu Harbor and then sweeps over the white sandy beaches of Waikiki until the Ala Moana open-air shopping mall is in sight.

You will then fly over the popular picnic grounds of Magic Island before the helicopter whisks you over the famed Waikiki Beach.

From there, you will soar over Diamond Head just before you get to the illustrious Punchbowl Crater. Then, wrap up the quick-fire tour by gliding towards Pearl Harbor, home to the USS Arizona Memorial.

15. Pearl Harbor, USS Missouri, Iolani Palace Full-Day Tour

This is a tour designed to let you squeeze the most out of Oahu’s top attractions.

The full-day tour starts with a stop at Pearl Harbor, from where you’ll take a Navy launch to the USS Arizona Memorial where the Japanese brokered a peace deal to end WWII.

A guided tour of the USS Missouri battleship is part of the package, but this is not before you swing by the Visitor Center to witness the collection of artifacts that survived the Japanese assault.

A tour of downtown Honolulu is on the cards as well, and this offers a trip back in time through attractions such as the Kawaiahao Church and the prominent statue of King Kamehameha the Great.

Then, discover the impressive exhibits housed at Hale and Mission Houses Museum, before wrapping up the tour by driving through the Punchbowl National Cemetery.

15 Best Pearl Harbor Tours:

• Hawaii: Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Small Group Tour
• Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial Tour with Pick-Up
• Oahu: Official USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Audio Tour
• Passport to Pearl Harbor: Official Full-Day Ticket
• Honolulu: 6-Hour Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial
• Hawaii: USS Arizona Memorial & Battleship Missouri Tour
• Pearl Harbor All Inclusive Full-Day Tour with Tickets
• USS Arizona Memorial and Aviation Museum Small-Group Tour
• Oahu 60-Minute Helicopter Tour: Doors On or Off
• Private Pearl Harbor Memorial Tour
• Oahu Day Tour: Pearl Harbor and Punchbowl Cemetery
• Ultimate Pearl Harbor and Circle Island Tour
• Oahu: Full-Day Complete Pearl Harbor Experience from Waikiki
• Oahu: Waikiki 20-Minute Doors On / Doors Off Helicopter Tour
• Pearl Harbor, USS Missouri, Iolani Palace Full-Day Tour

20 Best Pearl Harbor Tours (Day Long & Historical!)

Explore the top 20 Pearl Harbor tours, from historical day-long adventures to the USS Arizona Memorial. Perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful visit.

On December 7th, 1941, Pearl Harbor was attacked from the skies above. Hundreds of Japanese fighter planes bombed below and managed to destroy and damage twenty American naval vessels. More than 2,400 Americans died on that awful day and another 1,000 were wounded.

If you’ve been wanting to visit Pearl Harbor to complete a tour of these historic sites, there are many to choose from. You will get to view the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, The Aviation Museum, The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, and more. These tours do a wonderful job of educating the public on the historic events that unfolded.

No matter what tour you decide to go with, there are tours available for all ages. We hope you have your walking shoes ready because some of these tours will last you all day!

If you’ve been wondering about what tour you should go with on your adventure to Pearl Harbor, don’t worry, we have you covered. Let’s dive into our top 20 Pearl Harbor tours in Hawaii.

1. Pearl Harbor Memorial and Battleship Memorial Tour

Pearl Harbor is one of the most popular and memorable destinations in Oahu. The National Park contains the USS Arizona Memorial which has a magnificent white design. This is known as a hallowed ground where over 1,100 sailors remain trapped inside.

After you have toured the memorial to pay your respects, you will head over to Ford Island for the US Battleship Missouri tour. On this battleship, the Terms of Surrender were signed that ended World War II.

Finally, you will ride through Honolulu which is filled with popular destinations such as Punchbowl Crater, King Kamehameha’s Statue, and much more! If you're staying on the big island, in Maui, Big Island, or Kauai, you don’t want to miss the chance to visit the historic Pearl Harbor.

Price of Tour: Adult $139.99; Child $129.99 Length of Tour: 4 hours

2. The Complete Pearl Harbor Experience: USS Arizona, Missouri Battleship, Bowfin Submarine, & Aviation Museum

The Complete Pearl Harbor experience will give you one of the most personal overviews of the commitment to World War II. There is so much to see on this tour that you need a whole day to go over everything. On the tour, you will visit battleships, and see bullet holes from the enemy in buildings, vintage planes, war footage, and more. 

The complete Pearl Harbor tour includes admission and transportation to all sites that are open to the public in Pearl Harbor. The medium group tour has 12 to 20 guests.

Price of Tour: Adult $189.99; Child $179.99 Length of Tour: Full-Day Tour

3. Pearl Harbor Oahu Circle Island

Third on our list is the Pearl Harbor Oahu Circle Island Tour. You will take a boat ride on a United States Navy launch that will take you out to the solemn grounds of the USS Arizona memorial. It has been said by visitors that this memorial will make you very emotional while learning about the events that lead up to and after World War II.

After you have toured Pearl Harbor, your guide will take you on a 120-mile adventure in Oahu to circle around the island. On this adventure, you will see overlooks, towns, beaches, and parks. Some of these landmarks include Honolulu's historic buildings, Macadamia Nut Farm, and the North Shore beaches.

This tour will tour with only 12 guests, making this a small, personal tour for better interaction. Your guide will provide an abundance of knowledge as they customize the day based on your interests.

Price of Tour: Adult $139.99; Child $129.99 Length of Tour: Full-Day Tour

4. Polynesian Cultural Center & Pearl Harbor Tour

Fourth on our list is the Polynesian Cultural Center & Pearl Harbor tour, where a full tour of the island of Oahu lies right at your feet. You will start your tour off at the USS Arizona Memorial before heading off on an island adventure. On this tour, you will start off at Pearl Harbor before heading to the Polynesian Cultural Center.

At the center, you will get to see the cultures that are represented through demonstrations and shows. Here you’ll get to watch the canoe pageant and even get the urge to go for a ride yourself. At the center, you’ll also get to have lunch which is included with your tour price.

In addition to touring the center, you’ll pass through unique towns and get to stop by overlooks throughout the day. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to get photos taken at some of the most popular locations.

Price of Tour: Adult $239.99; Child $229.99 Length of Tour: 10 hours

5. Battleship Missouri With Pearl Harbor & Circle Island Helicopter Tour

Fifth on our list is the Battleship Missouri With Pearl Harbor & Circle Island Helicopter Tour, where you’ll see all of Pearl Harbor and Honolulu from the ground and the sky. This tour has a combination of the most popular stops at Pearl Harbor with a forty-five-minute helicopter tour of Oahu. Your guide will take you to the Arizona Memorial, the white structure that is the size of the battleship.

Your guide will then take you to Mighty Mo, a battleship that was named after the state of Missouri. The guide will show you highlights of the ship before letting you explore on your own. Next, you’ll head to the airport to begin your helicopter tour.

You’ll fly over Pearl Harbor and see the outline of Arizona from above. You’ll also get to fly over the National Cemetery of the Pacific, Downtown Honolulu, Waikiki, and Diamond Head.

Price of Tour : Adult $479.99; Child $469.99 Length of Tour: 7 - 8 hours

6. Remember the Battleships Tour

Sixth on our list is the Remember the Battleships Tour, where you’ll visit the Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri at Pearl Harbor. These two sites are the main involvement in World War II. You will be picked up in their minibuses and brought to the Pearl Harbor visitor center.

Before boarding the boat to visit the Arizona Memorial, you will have time to explore the museums. The memorial straddles the battleship that was destroyed on the first day of the war. After coming back from the Arizona Memorial, you will drive over to Battleship Missouri.

On the battleship Missouri, you will be free to explore the ship and the many decks. You’ll be able to check out films, and exhibits, and even see the kamikaze attack that damaged the ships in the last days of the war. This is one that you don’t want to miss!

Price of Tour: Adults $108; Child $85 Length of Tour: 4 hours

7. Passport to Pearl Harbor

Seventh on our list is Passport to Pearl Harbor, the full-day tour experience. You’ll get to visit the most popular museums that include the Bowfin Submarine, USS Battleship Missouri, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. You’ll get to see it from different perspectives such as below the ocean in a submarine, commanding the seas in a battleship, and high above in an aircraft.

You’ll be able to listen to stories with a free audio tour device so you can listen and hear points at every stop. You’ll also have the option to choose to go with a guide, which may be stress-free as they do everything for you.

Price of Tour: Adult $89.99; Child $44.99 Length of Tour: Over 8 hours

8. Pearl Harbor Warbirds

Eighth on our list is the Pearl Harbor Warbirds Tour, where you’ll be able to take to the skies in a vintage warbird. A flying tour is a one-of-a-kind experience, even though it may not be for everyone. The T-6 was a very versatile plane that was built in 1944.

If you are an aviation enthusiast, this tour is a must-add to your list. The agency can even set up a custom tour so you’ll be able to visit the aviation museum before your flight. This tour will fly you over Honolulu and Pearl Harbor.

While in the aircraft, you’ll be able to see things the way a cadet would. You will get to circle the island and see the pathway that the Japanese took when they bombed many sites in Oahu. This tour is narrated with views of Pearl Harbor and Ford Island.

Price of Tour: $1,644.99 Length of Tour: 45 - 60 minutes

9. Pearl Harbor Fly-Drive Package

Ninth on our list is the Pearl Harbor Fly-Drive Package Tour, the least expensive tour from the outer islands that includes an airline ticket, rental car, and other assistance to visit the Arizona Memorial. Once you arrive in Honolulu, you’ll proceed to pick up your rental car and head straight to Pearl Harbor. You can reach out for recommendations on how to make the most of your visit for that day.

If you want to see the historic sites at your own pace, you can choose an Oahu Island Circle your with a self-drive option. You may also add extra stops and tickets to see other museums in Pearl Harbor.

Price of Tour: Adult $349.99; Child $339.99 Length of Tour: Times vary depending on the attraction.

10. Honolulu: Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and City Tour

Tenth on our list is the Honolulu: Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and City Tour. You will spend the day visiting the most important sites and landmarks in Honolulu. You’ll begin your tour with a visit to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where you’ll enjoy the exhibits, galleries, and displays before you board a Navy boat shuttle for a tour along “Battleship Row.”

As you step off your shuffle to explore the USS Arizona Memorial, you’ll continue to the National Memorial Cemetery where you’ll see the historical landmark against the rolling hills and beautiful foliage. Towards the end, you’ll wrap up your tour with a narrated experience of downtown Honolulu. You’ll get to see the state buildings, and learn about lolani Palace.

This tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation, a guide, national park fees, admission to the USS Arizona Memorial, a downtown Honolulu tour, and more. This tour will honor those who served in the United States Armed Forces.

Price of Tour: From $60 per person Length of Tour: 5 hours

11. Pearl Harbor Heroes Adventure Tour

Eleventh on our list is the Pearl Harbor Heroes Adventure Tour. You all immerse yourself in a full-day tour learning about World War II history in Oahu. You’ll get to visit the USS Missouri and the site where the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor.

After that, you’ll climb onto the Bowfin and learn about the role it played during World War II. You’ll get to honor the lost soldiers of the USS Arizona and visit the Pearl Habor Aviation Museum. Round-trip transportation from the Waikiki hotels will be included.

Included in your tour will be a live narration by your professional guide, pick up and drop off at Waikiki hotels, lunch, Battleship Missouri admission fee, and Pearl Harbor Aviation admission fee.

Price of Tour : From $209.79 Length of Tour: 9 hours 30 minutes

12. Honolulu Tour With Pearl Harbor

On this tour, you’ll get to hear wonderful stories of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor. You will witness the iconic sites and the memorials of the 1941 attack and experience the island’s history. Your tour will begin with a pickup in Waikiki.

You will first travel to Pearl Harbor and then ride the navy launch to the USS Arizona Memorial. You will get to explore the memorials of those who lost their lives and reflect on the wall of remembrance. After the memorial, you will return to the van for your tour of downtown Honolulu.

You will get to see sites such as the state Capitol and Aloha Tower as you learn about some of the history of Hawaii. Gratuities are not included on this tour.

Price of Tour: From $50 per person Length of Tour: 5 hours 30 minutes

13. Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour

On this tour, you will get a complete experience of the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center along with a historic Honolulu tour. On the tour visit, you’ll see lolani palace and get to stop for a photo opportunity at the popular statue of King Kamehameha. This was the king of the Hawaiian islands.

This tour includes MANY great features. Some things that are included are luxury round-trip transportation, the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center Tour, World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, a documentary film of the Pearl Harbor attack, and a professionally narrated tour.

Price of Tour: From $64 per person Length of Tour : 5 hours

14. USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Audio Tour

On this tour, you’ll experience one of the most powerful destinations in Hawaii on a fully narrated audio tour to the USS Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. This narrated audio tour is 2.5 hours long that will take you through two class museums that include the amazing “Attack” and “Road to War.” These lead up to the attack on Oahu and the aftermath.

You’ll have your own guide to lead you along as you look at photographs, memorabilia, and more. This is included the audio tour, Pearl Harbor Visitor Center map guide, and disposable earbuds. The tour does not include tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial, which must be purchased separately.

Price of Tour: From $7.99 per person Length of Tour: 2 hours 30 minutes

15. Oahu: Salute to Pearl Harbor

On this guided tour, you’ll get to stand at ground zero of the Pearl Harbor attack and look up at the sky that once was filled with Japanese planes. During this tour, you’ll get to revisit the past and see artifacts and media displays that show the events and details that lead up to the attack. You’ll learn that Ford Island was the center of the attack, where residents once woke up to madness and destruction.

You’ll then head to the USS Arizona Memorial by shuttle boat. During your trip, you may see turtles swimming in the reef around the Arizona and how it is entombed below. You’ll get to see a historical film, a journey that takes you back in time to see a survivor of the attacks.

This tour includes centralized pickup, certified tour guides, and an entrance fee. This tour does not include food, drinks, or gratuities.

Price of Tour: From $46 per person Length of Tour : 5 hours

16. Oahu: Pearl Harbor Heroes Full-Day Tour

On this tour, you will get to retrace the footsteps of the brave soldiers of World War II on a full-day tour of Oahu. After you get picked up from the hotel, you will get to relive the days from the attack on Pearl Harbor to the signing of surrender aboard the USS Missouri. You will then get to visit the aviation museum where you’ll learn about the pilots of a bygone age.

You will also get to see how the US Navy has changed its base on Ford Island. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop off, a guide, navy operated boat tour, an audio tour of the USS Bowfin, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and the guided tour of the USS Missouri.

Price of Tour: From $192 Length of Tour: 9 hours 30 minutes

17. From Waikiki: Pearl Harbor Premium Tour

On this premium tour, you’ll get a guided tour with skip-the-line to access Pearl Harbor, Punchbowl National Cemetery, and downtown Honolulu. You’ll get to tour on a luxury mini-bus that comes equipped with USB ports, LED interior and exterior, frameless passenger windows, and a panoramic front view window. As you travel on this air-conditioned ride, your guide will narrate the history of all of these important sites.

Once at the site, you will have access to the USS Arizona audio guide. Included in your tour is a pickup and drop-off at your Waikiki hotel. With this premium tour, you’ll receive breakfast and lunch, a souvenir booklet, and an official Pearl Harbor tote bag.

Price of Tour: From $191 Length of Tour: 9 hours

18. Oahu: Diamond Head Hiking & Pearl Harbor Tour

This Diamond Head Hiking and Pearl Harbor Tour are so popular that it’s likely to sell out! You’ll get to experience this hiking trail from a transfer from your hotel in Waikiki. On top of Diamond Head, you’ll enjoy panoramic ocean views and you’ll get to stop at Pearl Harbor afterward.

Once you get to Pearl Harbor, you can spend time shopping, grabbing lunch, or seeing other tour sites after your hike. At the end of your tour, you will be returned to the hotel. This tour cost does not include storage lockers, Arizona Memorial tickets, or tips.

Price of Tour: From $80 Length of Tour: 8 hours

19. Pearl Harbor USS Arizona & Historic Honolulu Limousine Tour

On this tour, you’ll go on a private limousine tour of Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona, and Honolulu. You’ll get picked up from any address in Oahu and hop in a 10-passenger luxury limousine. Once you get to your destination, you’ll take a guided walking tour of the area.

Included in this tour are a chauffeur, limousine transportation, a wet bar on ice, snacks, Pearl Harbor souvenir, access to two Arizona Memorial Museums, and more!

Price of Tour: From $699 Length of Tour: 5 hours

20. Oahu: Doors Off Circle Island Helicopter Experience

On this tour, you will go on a helicopter that covers the island from above, making this the only full-circle tour of Oahu by helicopter. You’ll get to see aerial views of Pearl Harbor, the World War II Arizona Memorial, and more.

You’ll then get to fly above Honolulu Harbor and the Diamond Head crater. It’s important to note that this tour is not suitable for children under 12 years old. Are you brave enough to tour the skies?

Price of Tour: From $552 Length of Tour: 1 hour 15 minutes

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Is China Southern Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Concerns

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Is JetBlue Safe? Uncovering the Truth Behind Their Safety Measures

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Is United Airlines Safe? Real Passengers Share Their Experiences

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Best Pearl Harbor Tours (Complete Guide to Visiting)

On December 7, 1941 Japan attacked the United States at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. This devastating attack pulled the United States into World War II, which ultimately changed the entire face of the globe.

Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and City Tour

Best things to do in pearl harbor (what’s free & what isn’t).

There are four main things to do in Pearl Harbor.

1. Visit the USS Arizona Memorial

2. Take a tour of the Battleship Missouri

3. Tour the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park

4. Visit the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

The only free thing to do at Pearl Harbor is visit the USS Arizona Memorial. Even though it’s free to visit you still will need to have a reservation before going and you will be charged a $1 processing fee. More on that process below.

If you are planning to see any of the other three sites at Pearl Harbor you will have to pay an entrance fee. These include the tour the Battleship Missouri, tour the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, and visit the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

Best Way to See Pearl Harbor

The best way to tour Pearl Harbor is (in my opinion) by a guided tour.

While it is possible to explore on your own but you will need to reserve your tickets in advance for everything, including the USS Arizona Memorial.

Not only does it make visiting Pearl Harbor a lot more interesting when you have a guide telling you the stories and historic details of the tragedy you would otherwise miss, but it also takes the hassle of waiting in line to try and get tickets the day of.

There is nothing worse than walking around a historic site bot really knowing exactly what you are looking at and the significance it holds in the USA.

Check out the guided tours I recommend below!

Best Pearl Harbor Tours

Salute to pearl harbor.

The Salute to Pearl Harbor Tour is one of the highest rated tours. Book here.

Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial

In order to visit the USS Arizona you will need to have a reservation. Reservations are included in this tour so you won’t have to worry about.

Book your Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial tour here.

USS Arizona Memorial & USS Missouri Battleship Tour from Waikiki

Book your tour here.

Best Things to see at Pearl Harbor

Here are the best things to see at Pearl Harbor.

The USS Arizona Memorial

On December 7, 1941 the USS Arizona Battleship was bombed and sunk taking 1,177 lives with it. The USS Arizona Memorial floats above the watery site where the battleship sunk.

The USS Arizona Memorial at  Pearl Harbor  is a sobering reminder of what we have come through. Though this changes the tone from the rest of Hawaiian vacation , it needs to be included.

All reservations are made online, in advance, through recreation.gov. There are two reservation releases for each date.

Hours: Daily 7am–5pm

How to Get Tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial

In order to visit the USS Arizona Memorial, you need to have a reservation.

All reservations are made online, in advance, through recreation.gov.

There are two reservation releases for each date.

First Release:  

Second Release:  

It is free to visit the USS Arizona, but recreation.gov charges a $1 processing fee.   Click here  to learn more about the reservation process on the National Park Service website.  Here is the link  to make your reservation on recreation.gov. 

Currently, tours are offered from 8 am to 3:30 pm. For the best experience and an opportunity to beat the crowds I recommend booking one of the first tours of the day. This will also give you plenty of time to see all the sites.

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Best Of Pearl Harbor: The Complete Small Group Tour Experience

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• USS Arizona Memorial tickets are NOT GUARANTEED
• Entry/Admission - Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Visitor Center
• Entry/Admission - USS Arizona Memorial
• Entry/Admission - USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
• Entry/Admission - Battleship Missouri Memorial
• Entry/Admission - Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
• Pick up from ANY hotel in Ko Olina
• You will receive your finalized pick up time and location via text on the day prior to your tour date, please be sure to put your correct phone number. Pick-up times are between 6:30 AM - 8:00 AM We can also arrange pickup at the cruise ship pier or vacation rental in the Waikiki area. Guests staying at hotels in Ko Olina Area will need to find own transportation to Pearl Harbor Tours Office. Pearl Harbor Tours Office Address 891 Valkenburgh St, Honolulu, HI 96818 Park at the empty lot next door to the fire station. Your guide will be in contact for further instructions on where to park and will pick you up at this office. USS Arizona Memorial tickets are NOT GUARANTEED Please note that this tour is NOT a private tour, you will be grouped with other guests.
• Honolulu Harbor, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• USS Arizona Memorial
• Battleship Missouri Memorial
• USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
• Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
• National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Visitor Center Stop: 20 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 USS Arizona Memorial Stop: 45 minutes - Admission included See details
• 3 USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park Stop: 30 minutes - Admission included See details
• 4 Battleship Missouri Memorial Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• 5 Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details Pass by National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific Iolani Palace
• 6 King Kamehameha Statue Stop: 10 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• AllenF284 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles This tour brought far more understanding and perspective to our experience. We selected a private tour of Pearl Harbor and several additional sights on Oahu. We were picked up at our hotel at Turtle Bay on the North Shore which added about 2 hours to the full day package. It is absolutely critical to note that aside from the actual sights, it was our guide, Sam, who made the experience so memorable. His expertise, engagement, and recognition of our interests were top flight A+. Pearl Harbor obviously is memorable and emotional without commentary, but Sam's knowledge and perspective brought far more understanding to our experience. Read more Written April 16, 2024
• kriscJ8002LP 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great activity that makes for a perfect day I want to give a special shout out to our tour guide Ozzy. He's such a cool, funny, knowledgeable dude who's easy to chat with and made the day a lot of fun. He picked us up right on time and safely drove us to each destination. During the car ride, he had interesting trivia and fun conversation, and great recommendations for each stop. Since we were part of a tiny group (just my wife, me, and another couple), we were even able to request an extra stop at Leonard's Bakery Malasadas Truck in Kaneohe, to which he happily obliged. A 10/10 tour which we highly recommend! Read more Written April 8, 2024
• 990josephw 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Well-Organized Tour What a fantastic experience. Junior was an excellent our guide; funny and very informative. The Arizona and Missouri are both must sees for anyone with an appreciation for American History. Read more Written April 7, 2024
• Journey65772772978 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Pearl Harbor Memorial and tours The Arizona and the Missouri were great. Recommend seeing both unless you are pressed for time. Our driver was Jeff and he was great. Made sure we got to the Arizona and the Missouri on time and knew what to expect. Gave us a brief tour of Honolulu on the way back. Very knowledgeable. Thanks again Read more Written March 21, 2024
• davidkerr999 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Got what we paid for, just didn't realize that driving by beach and surf places didn't include stopping to photos The vehicle we travelled in was nice, but we spent way to much time in it. We were picked up on time by a driver, but then transferred to a central station waiting for other passengers to arrive. At this point we are now one hour behind on our beginning to Pearl Harbour. We were not there soon enough to see the Pearl Harbour video before boarding our boat out to the Arizona. We later received a link to the video, but it was a ling to someone that has filmed the video on their own device. We did go to some beautiful sites but were surprised when we found out the visits to the places on the North Shore were just drive right by them, but not stop and see them. I guess if we look back and actually read the fine print detail, we would have known it was just a drive, For a tour like this I couldn't imagine not stopping anywhere near the island tour locations, but that it what it really is. Our driver did point out some historic sites, usually after we had just passed them or too late to take any photos. They did refund some of our money after a complaint Read more Written March 19, 2024
• bettydaviseyes1975 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles PLEASE DON'T MISS THIS TOUR TRULY AMAZING TOUR This is a must see for all of us. The sacrifice of these men who perished here is a testimony to the American strength. The Missouri tour is so very interesting and full of fact and history. To be able to be on the ship where the treaty was signed, and soldiers lived was a lifetime experience. The short, guided tour is well worth your time on the Missouri. So much emotion on the Arizona, very emotional and to see some the ship still there, just breath taking. One small note, we found that there was not a real place to get a snack or lunch on the site, so plan appropriately or better still bring a lunch as the grounds are beautiful to enjoy with so many tales of history and great views. We took the double decker tour bus from our hotel to the memorial and back and our driver RJ was just the best. He told us so much history of the island and the memorial.. Read more Written March 18, 2024
• christophervP9841XA 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Pearl Harbour tour. Pearl Harbour is a must visit if you come to Hawaii. To pay our respects to those who gave their lives for us. Our tour guide was Oli he was very friendly and knowledgeable. He made us feel Ohana. A big Aloha to our tour group and shoots. 5 STARS. Read more Written March 15, 2024
• GrandTour33541492593 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Reflection Very Moving experience . What a huge loss. Kids today just don't get it They gave their lives for our freedoms. What a sacrifice. Read more Written March 15, 2024
• wrt1986 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Pearl Harbor and Missouri tour The transportation to the Pearl Harbor Memorial site was fine, except that the speakers in the van did not work. The driver spoke very fast. We told him it wasn’t working. He called into the company and they apparently told him it was working fine. Regardless, we missed most of his Tourbus information. The tour at Pearl Harbor is self-directed and truthfully, if you have transportation to get there, then you do not need to use a tour company. The Missouri tour was excellent and I did not recommend that people miss this opportunity Read more Written March 2, 2024
• FrequentFlier789286 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Hawaii 2.0 We went to Honolulu for a quick vacation in February. As a former resident of Hawaii and retired airline crew member and management employee with my trips to/from Oahu, not much has changed over the years. This was my girlfriends first trip to Hawaii, so we visited several of the standard tourist destinations. We purchased business class tickets from the mainland, which included sleeper pods and great service on American's 787 Dreamliner. We were required to complete an agriculture form declaring any packed food items, which were collected by the crew and given to the designated state agricultural representative at the arrival gate. There were no individual searches or screenings, so what was the purpose, other than to collect your personal information for their visitor CRM database? After a 45-minute wait for our checked 'priority' luggage, we looked for the ride-share area. No signage or help to be found, so we opted for the taxicab option. Our first 'welcome' to Hawaii was being 'flipped off' by an angry local driver when we crossed in front of him trying to reach the taxicab stand (I returned the welcome salute). The cab driver (wearing a mask) pulled up and didn't want to get out and help us load our luggage (4 bags). We stood there until he begrudgingly got out of his seat and loaded our luggage. His cab was lit up like a Christmas tree, with just about every warning light on his dash flashing. The driver made no attempt to have any conversation with us. The 30-minute cab ride was uncomfortable and unfriendly not to mention expensive. The final cost was $70.00. (note: we learned later from an Uber driver that the Ride-Share pick-up at the Honolulu airport is located on the upstairs 'Departure' middle curb). We stayed at the historic Hilton Hawaiian Village for three nights. This is a great location, but a very outdated, tired and expensive hotel. The hotel charges an additional $50 per day 'resort fee' which covers nothing. You'll pay extra for everything, including beach chairs, $25 each and umbrella $50 and drink and food priced 2X to 3X what you would normally pay in the mainland hotel restaurant. Tip: Go to the ABC Stores for food, drinks and souvenirs. You'll pay much lower prices ($2.50 Coors light vs $10.00 at the hotel). A cabana chair (a basic pool chair with a fabric cover rents for $250.00 per day). The rooms at the Hilton Hawaiian Village vary depending on which tower you're staying in, ours was average (The Rainbow Tower). No USB charging ports, old furnishings needing to be refreshed and worn out towels. The hotel rideshare pickup location is only at the Diamond Head Tower (Uber and Lyft are not allowed to pick up at the front entry. You can also store your luggage if you have an afternoon or evening departure at the same Diamond Head Baggage Office. We had several meals at the property and found the food to be average at best and over-priced, but with good portions. Be sure to check your bill after each meal and keep a copy of your original restaurant receipt (or take a picture of the final merchant copy). We had extra charges added to one of our dinners after we closed out our tab. We questioned the charge at check-out, which the Hilton representative initially told us we had to go and dispute on our own, which I insisted they needed to investigate and resolve for us. The front desk supervisor assisted us and removed the fraudulent food charge ($25.00). We attended a nice Luau at the Diamond Head Aquarium (a short Uber ride from the hotel) which was pricey ($275 each). The food was rather lackluster (local food trucks set-up with coupons you redeem for a variety of ethnic specialties) but the performance was amazing (a stage show highlighting the South Pacific and history of the Hawaiian culture). A cash bar and photo ops are extra charge. We rented a car from Enterprise which has an office on-site at the Hilton Hawiian Village (8am to 12pm only) which allowed us to escape the resort on our last day (after checking our luggage with the valet). The rate was $150 day for a mid-sized car, a late model car with low mileage. We ventured out to the North Shore and stopped by the Dole Pineapple Plantation (recommended by the Hilton front desk supervisor). We arrived later int he afternoon about 3pm and hoped to sample some fresh pineapple and see the "plantation". Dole offers a short (20 minute) narrow-gauge train tour ($14 per adult) claiming to show you their 'working farm' and to learn all about the pineapple industry. All we saw where a lot of dead plants, barren and weed infested fields and some dilapidated old harvesting equipment. To make it even more 'enjoyable' they play a pre-recorded narration throughout the train ride explaining what you're supposed to see (but didn't). On our return from the train ride, we went to the main visitor center (gift shop) and leaned they only offer pineapple samples and cutting demonstrations mid-day for a few hours, which we missed). We also visited Pearl Harbor, which is a must-see for anyone who has an ounce of patriotism. We didn't make a reservation in advance but were able to sign-up at the site for stand-by boat tickets (which are free) out to the Arizona Memorial. Our initial wait time was 4 hours, but we were quickly notified (via text) that we could board a boat quickly (after about a 30-minute wait). The staff provided a short welcome and escorted us out to the boat, which is operated by the US Navy). It was a very windy day, so we had a 'refreshing' journey out to the memorial. Sadly, the memorial is not well-maintained compared to other war memorials I've visited over the years. The memorial building is showing its age and needs some serious TLC. None-the-less, a moving tribute to to the over 3,000 men who lost their life on December 7, 1941. We returned to shore, and you'll find lots of additional history and information at the park and war museum. Parking on-site is very limited, but we found a free spot down the road near the marina. We drove around the rest of the afternoon, stopping at Costco for a $1.50 hot-dog (best meal deal on the island) and more sight-seeing. We returned our car, grabbed a pool chair and drinks (from the ABC store), then collected our baggage from the valet, and grabbed a Lyft ride to the airport at 7:30pm ($27.00 vs $70 via a traditional taxi). The airport requires all departing passenger luggage and carry-ons to be inspected by x-rayed for agriculture before checking them at the ticket counter. We proceeded to the American Airlines Admiral's Club to await our 787 Dreamliner departure at 11:00pm. We were very disappointed by the offerings available at the American Airlines lounge, no traditional menu items, only local Asian cuisine, and sparse snacks (pretzels, humus and cubed cheddar cheese). The atmosphere in the club was more like an operating room, with harsh bright white lights glaring down on everyone. A very uncomfortable lounge which is poorly managed (I'm a multi-year Executive Platinum AAdvantage member and use other AA lounges frequently in the states). Our short flight home was pleasant and offered a late-night dinner service in business class. The crew was awesome, and our Captain was making his last flight before his retirement. He greeted everyone and his wife was on-board and sat with us. Sadly, no cannon water salute was offered to him on his arrival at Phoenix Sky Harbor (another cost-cutting measure by the airport?). In summary, Hawaii is always a safe bet for a quick South Pacific get-away. Most locals love but hate mainlanders, (Haole) but need the tourism revenue. Crime can be bad in Oahu, much like any tourist hot spot, so careful, be guarded, use good judgement and leave your nice jewelry at home or the hotel safe. I won't be going back to Oahu again but would consider visiting the other Hawiian islands. Our trip was 4 days and 3 nights, which was just long enough to introduce my girlfriend to Hawaii and have some fun and memorable romance for Valentines Day. Aloha! Read more Written February 22, 2024
• P4218SLericas 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles This was amazing!! We loved this tour! Our guide was amazing! He took us to visit Queen Liliuokalani‘s Palace, telling the history of her and her people. We then went to the USS Missouri. We had the ship to ourselves for a while. Next, we visited the USS Arizona and the visitor’s center. Afterwards, we drove to the Punch Bowl cemetery. It was a great day. Our guide was prompt and very courteous. Read more Written February 18, 2024
• danapH5161WW 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles EXCELLENT Will was excellent! It could have been boring for 6 hours but Will kept it very interesting. Wouldn’t hesitate to do it again with WILL!!! Read more Written February 17, 2024
• framic69 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles USS Arizona A very sobering experience. It was a honer to pay tribute to my brother in arms who came before me. So many life lost before their time. Read more Written February 17, 2024
• D5573JDpeterk 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles US Arizona & Missouri Battleship Tour. Tim was our tour guide for our trip. Tim loves to share his knowledge of the island. He was a perfect host, kept our group on time & gave us our own space too. Thank you Tim for a great day & sharing your knowledge with us & for the high lites of the city of Honolulu. To see Pearl Harbour was a humbling experience. Read more Written February 14, 2024
• W7426BDralphg 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Pearl Harbor - USS Missouri tour Awesome trip. Our tour guide was terrific and we got everything we expected and a little more because of the guide. I would highly recommend this trip for the cost of it. Read more Written February 14, 2024

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Best Of Pearl Harbor: The Complete Small Group Tour Experience provided by Pearl Harbor Tours

7 Best Pearl Harbor Private Tours Worth Booking

Are you a history buff or want to world-school on your trip to oahu check out these incredible pearl harbor private tours for the ultimate oahu experience. scroll for the full list, this post about the best pearl harbor private tours was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

One of the most popular things to do on Oahu is  visit Pearl Harbor . In fact, many go on Hawaii vacations to see Pearl Harbor!

If you’re a history lover, you’ve probably learned a lot about the attack on Pearl Harbor that occurred on December 7th in 1941.

On that fateful day, the Japanese attacked American military members at the naval base in Pearl Harbor. This caused the death of more than 2,400 people.

After learning about the attack and how everything happened, you may want to experience the area for yourself while learning more about its lengthy history. 

Or maybe you have a friend or family member with a Pearl Harbor connection and want to learn more for personal reasons.

Sometimes, researching Pearl Harbor tours can be overwhelming. That’s why I pulled together this list of private Pearl Harbor tours. These are awesome for asking a lot of questions and hearing all kinds of stories about Pearl Harbor and World War II.

Here is your entire guide on the best private tours of Pearl Harbor. You will see half day Pearl Harbor tours, along with full day Pearl Harbor excursions the entire family will love.

Click  HERE  for the top rated private Pearl Harbor tour.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Oahu.

Popular Oahu Tours/Activities

• Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
• Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
• Hawaii Bucket List Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu Circle Island tour)
• Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
• CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
• Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
• Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

7 Amazing Pearl Harbor Private Tours

One of the best ways to really understand Pearl Harbor is through a private tour. These guided tours provide tourists with valuable information while allowing them to experience the area, take photos, and ask questions about Pearl Harbor. I think it is the best way to tour Pearl Harbor!

While Pearl Harbor group tours might be cheaper, you are more restricted on what you can do and learn.

If you’d prefer a private tour that gives you and your loved ones more time to talk with the guided tours who have plenty of knowledge to share, consider booking one or more of the private tours of Pearl Harbor listed below.

Here are some of the best private tours to Pearl Harbor!

1.  Half-Day Pearl Harbor and Honolulu Landmarks Tour

Spend half your day on an enjoyable  Pearl Harbor and Honolulu Landmarks Tour . During the tour of Pearl Harbor, you’ll get to see the USS Arizona Memorial. You can head over to the visitor center and watch a short film on Pearl Harbor. Plus, you can ride along the harbor in a US Navy vessel. 

Private transportation is available for you and your group, whether you’re traveling with family or friends.  Check latest rates and more information .

You can expect a professional guide to take you around Pearl Harbor and Honolulu to see famous landmarks and talk to you about each one. 

This Hawaii Pearl Harbor tour will be an educational experience for you while taking photos of some of the stunning landmarks in the area. 

Snacks and bottled water are available to guests to keep them hydrated and full throughout the duration of the trip. Feel free to ask your guide for tips and suggestions on other great places to visit during your stay on the island.

2.  Private Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour

Make your reservations on this convenient and enjoyable  Private Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour . One thing you may notice on your trip is that people want to see the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor.

Because it’s such a coveted spot for tourists, the line forms early in the morning, and most people need to get there as early as possible to get a good place in line. However, if you book this Oahu Pearl Harbor tour, you’ll get to  skip the line , making it the best USS Arizona tour!  Check latest rates and more information .

Not only will you get the perfect opportunity to see the  USS Arizona Memorial , but your tour guide will take you on a trip to the downtown area of Honolulu. You can expect to see beautiful things while on the excursion, such as the  Iolani Palace .

If you decide to take this Pearl Harbor tour in Hawaii, your guide can pick you and your group up at the hotel and drop everyone back off at the end of the day. This makes things even more convenient for everyone. 

You’ll get a chance to try locally-grown fruit while also enjoying snacks and beverages provided by your tour guide. 

A maximum of 14 people can go on this tour. This makes it an excellent choice for a family or group of friends who’d like to explore Honolulu together. It is one of the best guided tours of Pearl Harbor by far!

3.  Step Back Into History Pearl Harbor Private Tour

Enjoy the most freedom possible with the  Step Back Into History Pearl Harbor Private Tour .  Take a trip with a certified tour guide to experience Pearl Harbor and its natural beauty. 

The best thing about this tourPearl Harbor VIP tour is that you’ll get to decide where you want to go. While most tours already have the itinerary planned out for guests to follow, this tour allows you to determine where you’d like to go next. It truly is the best way to visit Pearl Harbor!  Check latest rates and more information .

The Pearl Harbor guided tour lasts for eight hours. And it consists of all the fun and exciting things you’re interested in doing and seeing while you’re there. During your tour, you’ll get to visit historical spots, including the USS Arizona Memorial. 

If you’re unsure where to go next, the Pearl Harbor tour guide will provide you with plenty of suggestions for you to choose from, making this a customizable experience. This is one of the best Pearl Harbor tours.

4.  Private Half-Day Guided Tour in Pearl Harbor and Honolulu

Enjoy a high-end tour tailored to your needs with this  Private Half-Day Guided Tour in Pearl Harbor and Honolulu .  You can check out the visitor center in Pearl Harbor to learn more about the attack and the soldiers who lost their lives fighting. 

This private Pearl Harbor tour is geared toward families who primarily want to see the USS Arizona Memorial and don’t have time/interest in seeing the other Pearl Harbor Historic Sites.  Check latest rates and more information .

You can ride on a ferry to get to the USS Arizona Memorial, experiencing the beautiful ocean while you’re on your way to this popular spot in the area. 

Plus, you’ll also get to take a tour of the Punchbowl Cemetery. Choose some of the monuments you’d like to see and places you’d like to visit, and your tour guide will make sure you get there with ease.

If you need a shorter trip, this Pearl Harbor half day tour is perfect for you!

5.  Private Guided Pearl Harbor Tour for Small Groups

This is another one of the best tours of Pearl Harbor!

Tour a meaningful piece of history with one of the most popular things to do in Hawaii, visiting Pearl Harbor. And this private Pearl Harbor tour comes with free transportation from Waikiki. Or you can add transportation from other parts of the island for an added fee.

With this guided tour, you can experience this historic expedition at your own pace without feeling rushed or stressed about time and spend as much time exploring Pearl Harbor as you want!  Check latest rates and more information .

After visiting the USS Arizona Memorial, you can choose to explore the  Pacific Aviation Museum , the  USS Battleship Missouri , the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, or take a tour around Honolulu. This is an excellent option for anyone who wants their family members to see sights on vacation too.

Take advantage of a half-day or full-day sightseeing tour so that you have enough time around Honolulu’s best spots before heading back home. This is one of the best Pearl Harbor tours from Waikiki.

6.  Private Pearl Harbor & North Shore Tour

If you are short on time during your trip, enjoy spending the entire day touring both Pearl Harbor and the entire North Shore.

With this full day tour, you will get a Lei, water, snacks, coffee, and so much more provided for you. You will head to Pearl Harbor and explore all they have to offer.  Check latest rates and more information .

From there, you’ll hop back in the car and drive up to the North Shore where you will explore  Dole Plantation ,  historic Haleiwa Town , watch surfing at Sunset Beach, see some sea turtles, and so much more.

This is a fun option if you are just  island hopping  to Oahu for the day or need a cruise shore excursion.

7.  Royal Star Private Tour – Pearl Harbor Arizona Memorial & Honolulu City Tour

If you are heading to Oahu with a group (like a bunch of extended family, work colleagues, wedding guests, or school group), you might consider booking this Royal Star Private Tour. They have private tours available for groups of 10 and possibly more.

On this Pearl Harbor tour Hawaii, you’ll get to visit Pearl Harbor and explore the moving history of WWII. You will be given a reserved ticket for the USS Missouri battleship.  Check latest rates and more information .

Your driver will provide additional commentary about Hawaii’s involvement during WWII. Royal Star Tours is committed to making your experience unforgettable by providing friendly service from start until finish.

You’ll also drive past historic Hawaii sites like Iolani Palace, King Kamehameha statue, and Chinatown.

Something important to know about this tour is that they do NOT provide the USS Arizona Memorial tickets. You’ll need to reserve those  HERE .

This is one of the Oahu Pearl Harbor tours that allows you to see the USS Missouri Battleship, so definitely check it out!

Pearl Harbor Small Group Tours

If you’re debating between a private Pearl Harbor tour and a small group Pearl Harbor tour, here are a few options to think about. Small group tours tend to be less expensive than private tours, but you might have strangers in your group.

Small Group Pearl Harbor City Tour

For one of the Pearl Harbor tours from Honolulu, get picked up at your hotel for a lengthy  Pearl Harbor City Tour . You’ll get to spend the day with less than 25 people while traveling through the city and checking out different military memorial sites. 

The guides will provide educational narration throughout the Hawaii Pearl Harbor tours. And they will make sure you understand the history of Pearl Harbor and how the events happened. 

You don’t have to worry about feeling hot or uncomfortable on this tour. Guests get to ride around on an air-conditioned minibus.  Check latest rates and more information.

The tour begins in the morning when you meet your guide. Then, head off on the journey, starting with a trip to the National Memorial Cemetery. This Hawaii cemetery is a place to pay respect to those who fought for the country. 

It’s an eye-opening experience and a fantastic way to get the day started by learning about the Pearl Harbor attack. 

Once you’ve stopped by the Cemetery, you and your loved ones can head to downtown Honolulu to visit churches and other important buildings. You can spend the day learning and exploring the city before getting dropped back off at the hotel.

It is another one of the Pearl Harbor best tours to go on!

Salute to Pearl Harbor Small Group Tour  

If you want to visit memorial sites on Pearl Harbor, take the  Salute to Pearl Harbor Tour .  The tour lasts for four hours and is a fun yet educational experience appropriate for people of all ages. There are a maximum of 12 people on this Pearl Harbor tour.

You’ll get to ride in a minivan that picks you up from your hotel. Once you’re on the minibus with your loved ones, you’ll get to head over to several local hot spots. This includes the USS Arizona Memorial and Pacific National Monument.  Check latest rates and more information .

Your guide will provide you with detailed information on the history of these monuments, including what they stand for and why people come to see them. 

Hear some of the most remarkable stories about the island with your tour guide, who is happy to answer any questions you might have on your journey.

If you need one of the Pearl Harbor tours with hotel pick up, this is a great tour!

Pearl Harbor Tours for Large Groups

Just in case you want to compare prices or experiences between private groups and the regular Pearl Harbor tours in Oahu, I’m listing some more popular tours at Pearl Harbor.

Pearl Harbor WWII Heroes Adventure Group Tour

If learning more about World War II is on the agenda, this   Pearl Harbor WWII Heroes Adventure Tour  is a must. The full-day tour typically lasts for about nine hours, giving you plenty of time to learn and explore. This tour holds up to 56 people.

You’ll get picked up at your hotel and conveniently dropped back off at the end of the day. Expect to visit the USS Missouri while learning about Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor.  Check latest rates and more information.

Not only do you get to see these stunning sights, but you actually have the chance to get on them! 

And don’t hesitate to step foot on the USS Bowfin. You’ll learn about the critical role it played in the war many years ago. The tour guide will provide you with in-depth information on each spot you visit, ensuring you know what these places are known for and why.

It is another one of the top Pearl Harbor tours!

Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour

Never forget what happened in Pearl Harbor when taking the  Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour . The average tour lasts for seven hours, providing guests with many opportunities to experience the area’s history for themselves. This tour has a maximum of 60 guests.

During this tour, you’ll see the USS Arizona Memorial, along with the USS Missouri and Pacific National Monument.  Check latest rates and more information .

Besides visiting these monuments and experiencing them firsthand, you can learn more about Hawaii’s history, tour the downtown area of Honolulu, and stop by the most popular places in Oahu.

Expect to have a memorable time with a considerate tour guide who will get you from one destination to the next while talking to you about the beautiful island. It’s an experience you won’t forget.

Pearl Harbor Oahu Tour Reviews FAQs

Pearl Harbor is located on Oahu right by Honolulu.

The top four things to do at Pearl Harbor are the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Battleship Missouri, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and the USS Bowfin Submarine and Park.

Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial are free to enter, as long as you make your Pearl Harbor reservations online. However, you’ll need to get a ferry ticket for the USS Arizona Memorial. You can either get one of the free tickets they distribute first thing in the morning, or you can reserve online  HERE . You’ll need to pay entrance fees for the  USS Battleship Missouri ,  Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum , and the  USS Bowfin Submarine .

Pearl Harbor is about 15 minutes away from the middle of Honolulu.

Visiting Pearl Harbor on your own is nice and can certainly be done. But, I think the Pearl Harbor tours Oahu has to offer are incredible and worth doing at least once.

Yes absolutely. You should plan to go on at least once Pearl Harbor excursion, but most visitors do a Pearl Harbor Hawaii tour every time they visit the islands!

The best tour of Pearl Harbor all depends on what you want to see and do. A visit to Pearl Harbor can be done with a half day tour or full day tour. A private tour of Pearl Harbor is usually best so you can go at your own pace and enjoy all it offers. If you want to see all the sites, this is probably the best private tour of Pearl Harbor .

Take Educational Pearl Harbor Private Tours 

When learning more about Pearl Harbor is one of several things you’d like to do while in Hawaii, these are some of the best tours to take. You can take advantage of private tours with fewer people. 

Pearl Harbor trips are so incredible that you will want to take a least one Pearl Harbor tour Oahu has to offer!

Instead of traveling with large groups, visit the wonderful places on the island with loved ones, such as your family and friends. No matter which private tour Pearl Harbor you choose, you can have a fun learning experience while stopping by many memorial sites and  historical places .

Purchase your best Pearl Harbor tours tickets above from the one that best interests you and enjoy!

Looking for more Pearl Harbor activities and tours? Read my  Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum review ,  where to eat near Pearl Harbor ,  how to get from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor ,  USS Battleship Missouri review , and my guide to  Pearl Harbor with kids .

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• Inter-Island Tours
• Compare Tours
• Private Tours
• Visiting Pearl Harbor
• USS Arizona Memorial
• Battleship Missouri Memorial
• The Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
• USS Oklahoma Memorial
• Aviation Museum
• Transportation
• Attack Timeline
• Heroes & Survivors

Self-Guided

The Passport to Pearl Harbor tickets give you unhindered access to the main attractions at Pearl Harbor, creating a day filled with history, exploration, and pride. The Passport tours are ideal for visitors who prefer to take their own transportation and explore with limited guidance and more independence. Prearranged tickets allow you to visit the attractions you want to see, while audio tours provide you with the opportunity to discover Pearl Harbor's fascinating stories along the way.

Official Passport to Pearl Harbor

The Passport to Pearl Harbor ticket is the official, complete self-guided tour at the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites. This is the perfect tour to take your time at the places you want to see the most. Includes:

• Admission to the Battleship Missouri, USS Oklahoma and USS Bowfin & Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
• Admission to the Pear Harbor Aviation Museum and Pearl Harbor Visitors Center
• Round trip transportation to Ford Island

Battleship Missouri and Aviation Museum Passport

Get access to the best Pearl Harbor sights + lunch (wine or beer included) & self-guided narrated tour.  Take your time and get the most out of your experience. Includes:

• Admission to the Battleship Missouri, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and Pearl Harbor Visitors Center
• Lunch including 4 options for adults and beer or wine
• Shuttle transportation between the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and Ford Island
• $10 gift card at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Gift Shop ($5 for Children)

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Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour

Elevate your Pearl Harbor experience with our Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour, the premium package that includes an immersive visit to the USS Missouri. Find yourself in history and honor those who served with…  MORE

• USS Arizona Memorial
• USS Missouri
• Downtown Honolulu City
• Duration: About 7h
• All Admissions Included
• Pick-up From Waikiki and Ko Olina

Majestic Circle Island Tour

From breathtaking natural landscapes to hidden gems, we make sure you get the most out of our Circle Island Oahu Tour. Join us to explore the wonders of the island in comfort, knowing you’re receiving top-notch value… MORE

Oahu's BEST VALUE Circle Island Tour!

• The Iconic Island Tour
• Knowledgeable Local Guides
• Duration: About 9h
• Lunch Included

Salute to Pearl Harbor Tour

We take pride in offering the island’s best value Pearl Harbor Tours. Our friendly guides are not just experts in history, but they’re also passionate about creating an unforgettable experience for you. A visit to this historic site… MORE

The BEST VALUE Pearl Harbor Tour in Honolulu!

• Duration: About 5h
• Pick-up From Waikiki & Ko Olina

Pearl Harbor City Tour

Embark on the Pearl Harbor City Tour, a captivating adventure that includes a narrated exploration of downtown Honolulu. Dive into the rich history of the city as you discover the profound significance of Pearl Harbor. Join us for a tour that… MORE

• Pick-up From Waikiki

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Historic pearl harbor tours.

Experience Pearl Harbor’s history with our guided tours. Our visits include monuments and exhibits honoring the USS Arizona, the Pacific Aviation Museum, and more. Our knowledgeable guides will help you understand the events before and after the attack, as well as the sacrifices made to protect the nation. Book your tour today for a meaningful experience.

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The ideal stay on Oahu can vary, but a common recommendation is about 5 to 7 days. This allows you to explore the island’s major attractions, enjoy some beach time, and get a taste of its unique culture. Of course, the more time you have, the more you can discover!

Oahu is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit for great weather and fewer crowds is typically from mid-April to early June and September to mid-December. These are the shoulder seasons, providing a more relaxed and pleasant experience.

It takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours to drive around the entire island if you’re taking the scenic route without many stops. However, exploring the island thoroughly with stops at various attractions will take a full day or more. For reference, our Circle Island Tour lasts around 9 hours.

Guided tours offer you the expertise of local guides who can provide insights, take you to the best spots, and ensure you make the most of your visit. Whether it’s a historical tour, a hiking adventure, or a cultural exploration, guided tours can make your Oahu experience truly memorable.

Among the multitude of tours available on Oahu, the two most iconic and highly sought-after experiences are the Circle Island Tours and Pearl Harbor Tours. These tours have consistently garnered immense popularity among visitors, offering distinct and compelling attractions that captivate the hearts of tourists from around the world.

While several transportation options are available, guided bus tours stand out as the most comfortable and economical means of experiencing all that Hawaii has to offer. Guided bus tours provide an unbeatable combination of comfort, convenience, and affordability. They offer travelers a stress-free and leisurely way to explore Hawaii’s most famous attractions and hidden gems.

For your first visit to Hawaii, Oahu is an ideal choice due to its well-developed infrastructure, making it easy to explore the island. Oahu offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly choices, and is equipped with modern amenities. You can enjoy diverse activities, from relaxing on famous beaches like Waikiki to exploring cultural sites like Pearl Harbor. The island’s culinary scene and cultural experiences are rich and varied, providing a well-rounded introduction to Hawaii’s offerings. Whether you’re interested in relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Oahu has something to offer every traveler.

Hawaii’s weather is characterized by a tropical climate, offering warm temperatures year-round. Coastal areas typically experience temperatures in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit (20s to 30s Celsius) during the day, with relatively mild fluctuations between seasons. Trade winds provide a pleasant breeze, especially in the summer. While Hawaii does have wet and dry seasons, rain showers are common but brief, with the wetter season occurring from November to March. The leeward (west) sides of the islands tend to be drier, while the windward (east) sides receive more rainfall. Overall, Hawaii offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and beach visits throughout the year.

Choosing the best Hawaiian island to visit depends on your preferences. Oahu is great for first-timers, offering a mix of culture, activities, and infrastructure. Maui is known for its natural beauty, including the Road to Hana and Haleakalā. The Big Island (Hawaii) is perfect for adventure seekers with its volcanoes and diverse landscapes. Kauai is a haven for nature lovers, famous for its lush, pristine scenery. Molokai and Lanai are quieter and less touristy, ideal for a more relaxed experience.

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• Arizona & Battleship Missouri (5)

Pearl Harbor Guided Tour with Lunch - Arizona Memorial & Battleship Missouri

Great tour, amazing tour guide!

Awesome day, 7.5 - 8.5 hour(s) incl. transportation, available sun, tue, thu, fri, pick-up available.

Limited time only

What to expect

Standard tour with lunch at battleship missouri.

Price per Adult :

Premium Tour with Lunch at Restaurant 604

• Participation period: 2024/03/18 - 2024/12/31
• Until: 2024/12/31

Pick-up at Select Waikiki Hotels

On the way to Pearl Harbor, pass the Honolulu Historic District where you'll see: • ‘Iolani Palace • Kawaiaha‘o Church • King Kamehameha Statue (15-min. stop) • State Capitol • Mission Houses Museum

View a short documentary about the Pearl Harbor attack on Dec. 7th, 1941 in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater.

Ride a Navy-operated shuttle boat to the Arizona Memorial. The USS Arizona is a battleship that was sunk on December 7, 1941. This memorial was built in 1962 on top of the submerged remains of the USS Arizona under the coast of Fort Island.

Enjoy a delicious sit-down lunch Battleship Missouri’s open-air dining area, presented by the Mo’s lunch vendor. Lunch options are available for all dietary needs including a cheeseburger, grilled chicken salad, veggie burger and more.

The knowledgeable guide will tour you around the Battleship Missouri Memorial. You can see firsthand the inside of the USS Missouri (BB-63) and the actual spot where World War II ended.

The Punchbowl Cemetery was built in 1948 as a final resting place for the American soldiers who had given their lives in WWII, Vietnam and Korea. It is located at the crater of the extinct volcano, Puowaina. In the past, Punchbowl was also the burial site for Hawaiian royalty (Ali'i).

Transportation add-ons

Pick-up/check-in time & location.

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

• Outside the Mahukona Street Side Entrance

• In front of IHOP

• Front Entrance

• Curbside on Walina St. Entrance

• Grand Islander Bus Depot

• Curbside on Lewers St. under the Hokulani sign by the bottom of the escalator

• Side entrance on Olohana St.

• Koa Ave Entrance curbside by the Green Awning

• In front of the Trolley Stop on Saratoga Road (curbside)

• Curbside of Front Entrance on Kaiulani Ave

• Curbside on Seaside Ave (Front Entrance)

• Tour Bus Terminal (Aloha Landing)

• Curbside on Paoakalani Avenue

14:45-15:30

Important activity information, restrictions.

• This activity is wheelchair accessible.
• Children of all ages can participate in this activity.
• Wheel Chair Accessibility: A transfer vehicle equipped with a lift is available with prior booking and notification of at least 2-4 days Guests must not exceed the weight limit of 600lbs combined weight for both the passenger and wheelchair. Please indicate during booking to secure arrangements. All island stops and facilities visited are accessible.

Additional notes

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• Gratuity is not included in the price.
• Drinks and snacks are available for purchase.
• Tickets will be reserved in advance for the USS Arizona Memorial program. This program includes a 23-minute documentary film about the attack on Pearl Harbor and the boat trip to the USS Arizona Memorial.
• Arizona Memorial Tickets may not be available due to high demand. The boat launch that brings visitors to the Arizona Memorial may, at a moment’s notice, be canceled due to dock stability issues and inclement weather. Guests will spend additional time at the Visitor Center if Arizona Memorial Tickets are not available.

Required items to bring & attire

• A valid government-issued photo ID
• Due to enhanced security measures, the Navy has increased its security checks to enter the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument. All guests must have a legal form of identification to enter the USS Battleship Missouri.
• The WWII Valor of the Pacific has implemented a "No Bags Allowed" Policy. No purses, handbags, fanny packs, backpacks, camera bags, luggage, diaper bags and other items that offer concealment are not allowed in the Visitor Center or the Memorial. Strollers with pockets and compartments must be empty before being allowed in. Personal cameras area allowed.

Pick-up from Waikiki Hotels

Enjoy a delicious lunch at the waterfront Restaurant 604. Guests can select from several delicious menu options.

Drop-off at Waikiki Hotels

15:15-15:30

• The menu is subject to change without notice.

Travelers interested in this activity also viewed

Traveler's photos.

Overall rating

This was an awesome tour with lunch included, our tour guide Ernie was incredibly knowledgeable and made the tour very pleasant and educating! Very glad we selected this tour, and also very glad we got a great tour guide ... .

Lunch was delicious on top of a wonderful day at the park.

Pear Harbor and city tour

Tour driver was knowledgeable and was funny too. She knew the History and insight on the area.

Activity Provider Polynesian Adventure Tours LLC

Activity provider.

Under Pearl Harbor's bag policy, the following items are allowed:

Under Pearl Harbor's bag policy, the following items are prohibited:

Payment / Cancellation Policy

• Credit card payment

• Any cancellations made after 15:00 local time, 3 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.
• Any changes made after 15:00 local time, 3 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc.
• Every 11/26, Every 12/25

Payment Methods

Cancellation Policy

Change policy, what is our tour vehicle like.

Buses are either 15 or 50 passenger motor coach tour buses, complete with air-conditioning, large viewing windows and a state-of-the-art sound system.

How far in advance should I book this activity?

We recommend booking at least 1-2 weeks in advance. If you have very specific schedule requirements and are not flexible, please book sooner. Last minute availability is often possible, but limited.

What types of items are we allowed to bring inside Pearl Harbor?

What types of items are we not allowed to bring inside pearl harbor.

Please visit VELTRA Support page to send an inquiry about this activity.

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Arizona & battleship missouri other tours and activities, royal star pearl harbor guided tour with arizona memorial & battleship missouri, ultimate pearl harbor tour with arizona memorial, uss missouri & aviation museum, pearl harbor guided arizona memorial & uss battleship missouri tour by e noa, pearl harbor battleship missouri & arizona memorial tour - roberts hawaii, 日本語ガイド＆オムレツ昼食付き, eur 152.00~.

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Best Pearl Harbor Tour from Kona: Day Trip from Big Island

Are you staying on the Big Island, Hawaii but you have a dream of visiting Pearl Harbor?

Let me help you find the best Pearl Harbor tour from Kona (or Hilo) to make that dream come true!

Located on the island of Oahu, Pearl Harbor is home to several important landmarks from that fateful day on December 7, 1941 and others that played a key role in winning WWII. There is plenty of time to explore these iconic sites along with other attractions as a day trip from the Big Island.

Booking a guided tour will take the hassle out of planning the logistics to get to Pearl Harbor from Kona and having a tour guide at your disposal to answer any questions is convenient. Putting together a DIY self-guided tour gives you freedom to see and do exactly what you want and spend as much, or as little, time at each attraction that meets your needs.

Pearl Harbor Tours’ Complete PH Tour

They provide the best all-encompassing tour hitting all the sights and at the best price.

Whether you’re interested in learning about World War II or just want to take in some incredible sights, taking a Pearl Harbor tour from Kona will not disappoint!

Guided Pearl Harbor Tours From Kona

1. pearl harbor tours’ complete pearl harbor tour.

⭐Rating : 4.5 out of 5 stars ⏳ Tour Length : 10 hours

>> Check Rates & Availability for Pearl Harbor Tours Here! <<

Pearl Harbor Tours Highlights:

• Round Trip Airfare From Big Island With Honolulu Curbside Pickup and Dropoff
• Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and Tickets to USS Arizona Memorial
• USS Bowfin Submarine

Battleship Missouri Memorial

Pearl harbor aviation museum.

• No-Host Lunch Stop at Laniakea Cafe ( paid on your own )
• Driving tour past Punchbowl National Cemetery, King Kamehameha the Great Statue, Ali’iolani Hale & Hawaii State Capitol

Pearl Harbor Tours’ Complete Pearl Harbor Tour In Detail: The Complete Pearl Harbor Tour from the Big Island with Pearl Harbor Tours begins with a pickup from the Honolulu airport after your included inter-island flight from Kona. Expert guides will provide a rich history of both Pearl Harbor and Honolulu during the comfortable ride to the site.

Upon arrival to Pearl Harbor, the tour group will be escorted to the visitor center where admission tickets are fast-tracked, allowing you to skip the long lines and dive right into exploring artifacts, informative displays, and memorials that tell the story of the attack on that fateful day.

After watching a short film , the tour continues with a Navy shuttle boat ride to the Arizona Memorial Battleship , where visitors can feel the solemn respect given to the fallen at the “Wall of Remembrance” and take a leisurely stroll through the gleaming white structure that is suspended above the sunken battleship below.

Returning from the memorial, the tour group will take a short walk to explore the USS Bowfin Submarine , imagining how 70 men lived aboard for months at a time.

Next, the tour heads to Ford Island to board one of the most famous battleships of WWII – the USS Missouri . Visitors can walk underneath the colossal 16-inch guns, see the Surrender Deck where Japan signed the articles of surrender, and learn about life at sea during wartime by going below deck.

Grab a bite to eat at the Laniakea Cafe for lunch on your own (not included in your ticket price).

Past Guest Reviews: “ We thoroughly enjoyed our day with tour guide extraordinaire Willy. Not only was he highly knowledgeable about the history of Hawaii, Pearl Harbor and modern sites of interest, he was also funny and personable. The small group size added enjoyment as the group got to know each other. Highly recommend this tour! It’s a must!” – Lindsey (read more reviews )

The final stop at Ford Island is the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum , where two hangars survived the Japanese attack and still have bullet holes in the windows from that fateful day. Over 50 vintage aircraft, including fighters and bombers used in the WWII Pacific war front, jet fighters, bombers, and helicopters from the Korean and Vietnam wars are on display.

Before returning to the airport, the tour group will take a historic driving tour of Honolulu to see Punchbowl National Cemetery , King Kamehameha’s Statue , Iolani Palace , and other notable historic buildings during a leisurely narrated tour.

It’s a great way to end a full day at Pearl Harbor and experience a glimpse of the rich history of Honolulu before heading back to Kona in time for dinner.

2. Polynesian Adventure Tours

⭐Rating : 4.5 out of 5 stars ⏳ Tour Length : 14 hours

>> Check Rates & Availability for Polynesian Adventure Tours Here! <<

Polynesian Adventure Tours Highlights:

• Lunch at Slider’s Grill 
• Driving tour past Punchbowl National Cemetery, King Kamehameha the Great Statue, Ali’iolani Hale, Iolani Palace, Kawaiahao Church, & Hawaii State Capitol

Polynesian Adventure Tours Pearl Harbor and City Tour In Detail: Departing from Kona airport, Polynesian Adventure Tours begins with a short flight to Honolulu International Airport. From there, you’ll be transported to nearby Pearl Harbor, where the adventure truly begins.

Your tour will be led by a professional guide and you’ll be riding in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring that you are comfortable throughout your journey. Step back in time as you cross Pearl Harbor in a Navy launch boat and visit the Arizona Memorial . This somber site is dedicated to the thousands of sailors who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. You’ll have the chance to witness first-hand the spot where so many brave men and women still rest in a watery grave.

Next, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the USS Missouri , the site where the Japanese officially surrendered to the Allies in 1945. Walk the decks and learn about the significance of this historic battleship as you take in the stunning views of Pearl Harbor.

Enjoy a delicious lunch from Slider’s Grill on the Battleship Missouri campus, taking a break from the history and soaking up all you’ve learned of Pearl Harbor.

Past Guest Reviews: “ Great trip and hosts. Mahalo and thanks! The food was really good, the tour was informative, the travel was safe and comfortable. ” – David (read more reviews )

The history continues as you tour the vibrant city of Honolulu . Pass by Kawaihao Church , known as the ‘Westminster Abbey of the Pacific’, and see Iolani Palace , where Queen Liliuokalani was illegally overthrown. You’ll also pass the statue of King Kamehameha and the Honolulu Hale , and end your Pearl Harbor tour driving through the Punchbowl National Cemetery , where soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II are buried and remembered.

You’ll then get dropped back off at Honolulu Airport to return to your vacation back on the Big Island.

3.   Karma Tour Hawaii Private Tour

⭐Rating : 5 out of 5 stars ⏳ Tour Length : 4 hours

>> Check Rates & Availability for Karma Tour Here! <<

Karma Tour Highlights:

• Honolulu Curbside Pickup and Dropoff

Karma Tour In Detail: Booking a private tour to Pearl Harbor from Kona with Karma Tour is great if you are looking to just visit the USS Arizona and Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. As this private tour can accommodate up to 15 people in your party, it is potentially a great cost saver as well.

After booking your own Kona to Honolulu flights , get aboard a clean and luxurious private vehicle airport pickup that transports and narrates you to the USS Arizona Memorial .

On this tour, you’ll be transported back to the infamous Sunday morning of December 7, 1941, as you wander the visitor center and explore the “Road to War” and “Attack” exhibit galleries. You’ll see pictures and artifacts from the events that took place at Pearl Harbor, offering a unique and emotional insight into the events that shaped the world as we know it today.

Past Guest Reviews: “ Sergei was an excellent guide! He really knew the history of the places we visited and his local knowledge just added to our enjoyment. ” – Melissa (read more reviews )

In addition to the USS Arizona Memorial, the tour includes an in-person briefing at the Pearl Harbor Visitor’s Center , which will help to provide context and a deeper understanding of the events that took place. You’ll also be given USS Arizona Memorial Boat Tickets, allowing you to make the journey out to the memorial and pay your respects to the brave soldiers who lost their lives.

You’ll have to time to grab a snack and shop at the Visitor Center gift shop before boarding your air-conditioned vehicle back to the airport , but not before doing a driving tour through Punchbowl National Cemetery and a scenic trip through Honolulu to see historical buildings .

If you’re looking for an even more personalized experience, contact Karma Tour to customize the tour by adding more museums.

A Word About Guided Pearl Harbor Tours from Kona

In my opinion, “guided” Pearl Harbor tours from Kona is a bit of a stretch. Any small group tour will have a tour guide narrate you on the drive, assist in getting you into the attractions, and be available for questions nearby, but once you are at the museum or memorial you are exploring on your own and will meet up with your guide at a designated time – they will not be with you 100% of the time.

Another thing to keep in mind, unforeseeable circumstances may leading to the Navy to suspend boat operations to the USS Arizona or capacity restrictions. In these cases, refunds on these tours are not issued, although visitors are still welcome to explore the Visitor’s Center, exhibits, and park monuments.

I am not trying to deter you from taking a guided Pearl Harbor tour from the Big Island , they are extremely convenient. Just use this information how you will to determine if a guided tour is best for you.

Next you can find out how to visit Pearl Harbor on your own from Kona.

Self-Guided Pearl Harbor Tour From Kona

Doing a self-guided tour to Pearl Harbor from Kona is easy and can be cost-effective.

Reserve Your Pearl Harbor Tickets

The first thing you need to do is reserve your Pearl Harbor tickets for the USS Arizona . These are hot commodities and can sometimes be a bloodbath to reserve, especially during peak travel season.

These tickets include an introduction video in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater, a Navy-operated shuttle boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, and time to explore the USS Arizona Memorial. There are no official escorted tours of the memorial, it is all self-guided.

There are two rounds of chances to book your tickets online:

• 1st Round opens up 8 weeks prior to your date at 3:00pm HST.
• 2nd Round opens up 1 day prior to your date at 3:00pm HST.

Make sure you are logged into your account on the recreation.gov website and have your credit card ready.

While the tickets themselves are free, there is an online reservation fee of $1.00 per ticket, nonrefundable.

If you are unable to score a reservation, you can take your chance at standby tickets on the day of. Arriving early is your best bet but you may still find yourself in a long line, waiting hours, and still not get tickets for the USS Arizona.

If you are interested in a self-guided audio tour , Jamie Lee Curtis will narrate you around the memorial. This audio tour is the only “official” tour of the park, comes in nine different languages, and is an extra $7.99pp from the USS Arizona ticket.

The Visitor Center Deluxe Tour is an extension of the audio tour but with exclusive access to National Park Service World War II archives and videos on the attack at Pearl Harbor through your smartphone and a VR experience that lets you walk the decks of USS Arizona and witness the attack.

If you cannot manage to score Pearl Harbor tickets, you can still walk around the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center exploring interpretive exhibit galleries and waterfront interpretive displays. 

Book Your Plane Ticket

Next, you’ll need to book your plane ticket from Kona International Airport (or Hilo International Airport) to Honolulu International Airport. Hawaiian Airlines or Southwest are the only airlines that fly the 45-minute flight non-stop, direct.

✈️ >> Find Kona to Honolulu flights here! << ✈️

How to Get to Pearl Harbor From Honolulu International Airport (HNL)

When it comes to visiting Pearl Harbor direct from HNL, there are a few options to choose from, each offering its own challenges and prices.

• Take a taxi or a ride-share service : Taking a taxi (approx. $30) or Uber/Lift (approx. $12-15) is the quickest and most convenient way to get from the airport to Pearl Harbor, with a journey time of about 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
• Hop on The Bus : If you’re looking for a potentially more affordable option (depending on your party size) The Honolulu Airport Bus provides regular service from the airport to Pearl Harbor on Westbound Route #20 for $3.00pp, paid in cash upon boarding. This is about a 20 minute ride.
• Rent a car : With your own set of wheels, you have the freedom to get to Pearl Harbor from the airport and then explore more of the Honolulu/Waikiki area at your own pace. Check car rental rates here!

No matter which option you choose, be sure to plan ahead to ensure a smooth and stress-free transport to this historic and beautiful destination

Pearl Harbor Museums and Memorials

Navigating all your Pearl Harbor museum and memorial options can be confusing and overwhelming. I’ve mapped out the attractions below to help navigate your options.

GO CITY OAHU ALL-INCLUSIVE PASS

The Go City Oahu All-Inclusive Pass covers most of the attractions you are likely to want to visit with no reservation needed; just show up and show your pass.

Attractions included in the Go City Pass :

• Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum at Pearl Harbor
• Battleship Missouri Memorial at Pearl Harbor
• USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Audio Tour

This can be a cost effective way of seeing attractions as long as you visit enough in your one day on the island.

>> Order your Go City Oahu All-Inclusive Pass Here! <<

USS Arizona Memorial

When you think of visiting Pearl Harbor, touring the USS Arizona is what you think of and is the most popular attraction. You’ll begin at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where you’ll be able to view historic artifacts and exhibits that offer a glimpse into the events leading up to the attack on Pearl Harbor.

The USS Arizona portion will take about 1.25hrs from when your reservation time begins. It starts with a short film about the history of Pearl Harbor and to prepare you for what you are about to see.

Then, you’ll take a short boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, the site where the USS Arizona sank in 1941.

You’ll have time to explore the USS Arizona Memorial where you can look down into the waters where the USS Arizona sank and killed 1,177 soldiers, some of whom remain below in their watery grave. Around the Memorial, you can observe the black marble wall inscribed with the names of those who died.

Take the boat back to shore and, if you’ve reserved other museum and memorials, continue on. Otherwise, your visit to Pearl Harbor is done.

Book your free USS Arizona tickets here.

Ford Island Bus Tour

A unique and “hidden gem” experience for visitors is the Ford Island Bus Tour. This tour of the the USS Oklahoma and USS Utah Memorials on Ford Island is fully guided and escorted by National Park Service Rangers, offering visitors a chance to explore the lesser-known sites of Pearl Harbor.

The 90-minute round-trip tour begins at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where visitors will board a motor coach to travel to Ford Island.

Once on Ford Island, visitors will have the opportunity to see the USS Oklahoma and USS Utah Memorials up close. These memorials commemorate the battleships that suffered during the attack on Pearl Harbor and serve as a reminder of the tragedy that took place on December 7, 1941. Additionally, the tour includes a visit to six historic officer bungalows, which provide a glimpse into the neighborhood life before, during, and after that devastating day.

The tour takes you on an active military installation. As such, if you do not have military ID, this tour is the only way civilians will have access to view these ships.

The Ford Island Bus Tour operates only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 3:15pm with only 25 people allowed per day, so these will also be competitive tickets to acquire.

Book your free Ford Island Bus Tour here

Another memorial to visit nearby is the Battleship Missouri Memorial. Again, if you don’t have military clearance, a free shuttle runs every 15 minutes from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center for civilians.

The USS Missouri, also known as the “Mighty Mo,” is a former battleship of the United States Navy that was commissioned in 1944 and served in several conflicts, including World War II and the Gulf War. Today, it is permanently moored at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii and serves as a museum ship and memorial, known as the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

Visitors to the Battleship Missouri Memorial have the opportunity to explore various areas of the ship, including the main deck, the Combat Engagement Center, and the ship’s quarters, as well as learn about its history through exhibits and multimedia presentations.

One of the most iconic features of the ship is the Surrender Deck, where the Japanese Instrument of Surrender was signed on September 2, 1945, effectively ending World War II.

General Admission is $34.99pp (adult) and allows you to explore the memorial on your own using a digital tour map and reading informational placards. Staff are scattered about the premises, ready to answer any questions you may have. Your ticket also includes an optional 35-minute guided tour.

Upgrade your ticket for $30 more for the Captain’s Tour , a 45-minute guided tour through areas designated for officers. You’ll visit rooms like the Wardroom where they dined, the Captain’s cabin (visited by President Harry Truman, Bob Hope, and Marilyn Monroe), and the Combat Engagement Center to see where the weapons operated and Tomahawk missiles were launched. Tour size is limited to 10 people at a time.

Another add-on tour option for another $30 is the Chief Engineer’s Tour which offers a detailed look at Mighty Mo’s power and mechanics, including a visit to Fire Room #4 and Engine Room #4, as well as the aft plotting room. You’ll learn about the role of the Chief Engineer and the sailors who worked below the water line, and have the chance to fire the big guns. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and has a maximum capacity of 10 visitors.

Book your Battleship Missouri Memorial tickets here

Airplane buffs will enjoy a visit to the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Take the free shuttle from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center as the museum is on Ford Island, an active military base.

Starting with the attack on Pearl Harbor and delving into 75+ years of Pacific aviation history, you’ll be granted comprehensive access to a diverse array of over 50 authentic and restored aircrafts from both the US and Japanese, in addition to all displays featured in Hangar 37, 79 and The Raytheon Pavilion. Museum staff can be found throughout the museum eager to answer questions while telling stories that will enliven exhibit experiences.

Upon arrival in Hangar 37, visitors of the museum are invited to partake in complimentary viewings of its award-winning 12-minute documentary “East Wind Rain” every 15 minutes. In Hangar 79, view bullet holes in the blue glass windows left by the great battle.

General Admission is $25.99pp (adult) and also included are free audio guided tours available in 6 languages.

For an extra $19.99pp, add on the Top of the Tower Tour , accessing the 15-story tall Ford Island Control Tower where you ride the restored elevator to the upper cab, and take in breathtaking 360° views from the observation deck. Also included is entry into the Operations Building where you’ll explore a firehouse exhibit. Only 120 tickets are sold each day.

Add a one-hour long Guided Hangar Tour of Hangars 37, 79, and the Restoration Shop to your General Admission for only $10pp. Your tour guide will give you in-depth details of the history that took place here while taking you through an exclusive behind the scenes look at the restoration efforts being made. There’s even a free gift upon arrival, while supplies last.

Book your Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum tickets here

For a super interactive experience, try your hand at the Fighter Ace 360 Flight Simulator . Somersault and loop your way through a dogfight in a P-38 over the Pacific waters, getting a glimpse from the perspective of a 1940s pilot. Only 150 tickets sold per day, in-person only, and it’s a first-come/first serve basis starting at $10.70pp.

Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum

Adjacent to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center (no need for a shuttle) is the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. It showcases the WWII fleet submarine USS Bowfin, a museum, and outdoor artifacts. It is one of only a few museums in the world that educates visitors on the U.S. Navy’s “Silent Service” during World War II, Cold War, present day and beyond!

Tour the USS Bowfin which was launched on 7 December 1942, exactly one year after the harrowing attack on Pearl Harbor, and is proudly known by her nickname – the ‘Pearl Harbor Avenger.’

Experience the tight spaces of a WWII submarine in the Conning Tower and pay your respects to the Waterfront Memorial that honors over 3,500 WWII officers and crewman.

See over a dozen missiles, anchors, propellers, and torpedoes; even a Japanese Kaiten, one of the only remaining Japanese-manned torpedoes left in the world.

The museum features several exhibits showcasing the history of submarines in the Pacific, a large collection of submarine-related artifacts and memorabilia, and interactive exhibits that provide a hands-on experience for visitors.

Do note that children 4 and under are not allowed on the USS Bowfin.

General Admission is $21.99pp (adult) for a self-guided tour through the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, USS Bowfin, a World War II submarine, and outdoor exhibits. Included are free audio guides offered in 7 languages.

For a truly exclusive experience, the VIP Captain’s Tour is a two-hour tour of the submarine and outdoor exhibits privately guided by a former Commanding Officer of a U. S. Navy Submarine. This one-of-a-kind tour is $600 for up to 6 people.

Book your Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum tickets here

Punchbowl Cemetery

On the opposite end of Honolulu, about 9 miles southeast of the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, you can continue your Pearl Harbor experience to Punchbowl Cemetery. This cemetery is free to enter and is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by the 13,000 soldiers buried here who served during World War II. A visit to Punchbowl Cemetery offers visitors the chance to pay their respects and reflect on the ultimate sacrifice that so many have made for our country.

Tour companies are only allowed to drive through the cemetery, not stop to let you out. By visiting on your own, you are free to take a self-guided tour around the 112-acre grounds and explore. As you walk through this sacred place, you will encounter monuments and memorials dedicated to those who perished in battle during World War II as well as memorials honoring those who served in World War I, the Vietnam War, the Korean War, and more.

A couple of soldiers buried here who received the Medal of Honor posthumously after dying on Dec 7, 1941 at Pearl Harbor are:

Chief Boatswain Edwin Joseph Hill  was serving on the USS Nevada, the only vessel to escape that day. With no regard for his own safety, Hill leapt from the ship and swam back to cut her moorings so she could set sail. In a tragic turn of events however, merely moments later, an enemy bomb exploded at the bow of the vessel – taking Hill’s life.

Radio Electrician Thomas James Reeves was on board the USS California, which was hit early on in both the front and aft by Japanese torpedoes . Reeves was courageous and had no disregard for his own safety during the attack on Pearl Harbor. 

In addition to these memorials, there is also the Courts of the Missing, which lists service members missing in action, including 26,306 servicemen lost in World War II.

Punchbowl Cemetery serves as an important reminder of both courage and loss while offering an opportunity for reflection on what it means to serve one’s country with honor and courage even unto death.

If you did not rent a car, taking a bus from Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is doable. It would be about 1.25hrs with a couple of transfers and would include walking a mile. Likewise, you would be able to take the bus back to Honolulu Airport in about an hour with a transfer or two (depending on how much you are willing to walk).

Can you visit Pearl Harbor from Kona?

Yes. While Kona is on the Big Island and Pearl Harbor is on the island of Oahu, it is completely doable by flying inter-island for a day trip.

How far is Pearl Harbor from Kona Hawaii?

The flight from Kona to Honolulu is about 45 minutes, non-stop. From Honolulu Airport, the drive is only about 4 miles away, which is about a 12-minute drive, depending on traffic.

• Parking and admission to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center are free.
• Visitors with a valid military ID or contractors’ permit are able to access Ford Island directly.
• No bags allowed in any of the sites. Bags may be checked into baggage storage at the Visitor Center. $7 for standard and $10.00 for oversize, luggage

Where can you eat at Pearl Harbor?

You won’t have a ton of options for a meal while visiting Pearl Harbor, but there are a few to choose from.

Jake’s Food Truck is the most convenient and affordable place for lunch near the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum serving barbeque favorites like burgers, pulled pork dishes, and a luau plate.

Sliders Grill food truck is by the USS Missouri on Ford Island with a modest menu of burgers and sandwiches served on a hoagie roll and topped with homestyle coleslaw.

Restaurant 604 is just a quick 5-minute walk from the Visitor Center with a view of Rainbow Bay Marina. Order plate dishes of chicken or ahi katsu chicken with mac salad, rice, and salad or a furikake crusted catch fish and chips or the Hawaiian favorite, Loco Moco.

While You Are On the Big Island, Don’t Miss: Night Snorkeling with the Manta Rays See Lava at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Epic Whale Watching Eat All the Malasadas

Epilogue: Taking a Pearl Harbor Tour from Kona

Visiting Pearl Harbor is an incredibly moving and educational experience and is easily accessible if you are staying on the Big Island. From the USS Arizona Memorial to the Punchbowl Cemetery, there are many attractions that honor those who lost their lives during the attack on December 7th 1941.

Whether you’re looking for a guided tour or simply want to explore at your own pace, taking a Pearl Harbor tour from Kona will be an unforgettable journey into America’s past.

🌺 Big Island Travel Planning Guide 🌺

🚨  Should I buy Hawaii travel insurance?

YES  — I recommend Travel Insurance Master because you can compare multiple options with one click. With plans starting at $5/day per person, why not give yourself piece of mind? Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it!

 🚗 Is it safe to rent a car on the Big Island?

YES — It’s totally safe to drive on the Big Island. And unless you plan to chill by the resort pool the entire time, renting a car is pretty much a necessity on the Big Island! Jeep rentals are popular . I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental , as they have some of the best prices around.

📞  Will my phone work on the Big Island?

PROBABLY  — Most, if not all, cell providers work on the Big Island. However, be prepared for some dead spots in the more remote parts of the island. For example, I always lose service driving through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

🛏️  What’s the best way to book my Big Island accommodations?

For Big Island hotels,  Booking.com is amazing because you can often reserve your room with no money down. If you are looking for an Airbnb condo with a kitchen and more space, don’t forget to check VRBO  for potentially better prices and options.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Big Island flights?

I recommend looking at Skyscanner for finding cheap flights. Pro Tip : check if flying into Hilo is cheaper than flying into Kona.

🛂  Do I need a passport to visit Hawaii?

NO  — If you are a US citizen, you do not need a passport as Hawaii is part of the United States . If you are from out of the country, the same passport and visa requirements are the same as entering anywhere in the United States from your country.

🧳 What should I pack to the Big Island?

Pack for tropical weather but also prepare for colder than expected nights and early mornings, so a light sweatshirt is recommended. Check out this list of 5 Things Not to Forget to Pack .

Aloha! I'm Tabitha, an ex-travel agent turned travel blogger. I've lived from fire (Big Island Hawaii) to ice (Alaska) to the lukewarm (Washington State). I've traveled Europe, Scotland and England being my favorite, Costa Rica, Cancun, Canada, various US states, and more. No matter if it's a staycation or international vacation, every trip I take there are things to explore and discover! I'm here to take what I learn and help others think outside the box when composing their own travel itineraries.

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Touring Hawaii’s Pearl Harbor, a history lesson and memorial service all in one

HONOLULU – Nearly 1.7 million people toured Pearl Harbor last year, making it one of Hawaii’s most-visited destinations.

But don’t call it a tourist attraction, said actress Jamie Lee Curtis, who narrates a powerful self-guided audio tour of the site.

“It’s a national cemetery,” she said.

She advised us to “be mindful of where you are” on the five-minute boat ride over to the USS Arizona, where more than 900 U.S. soldiers remain entombed under the water nearly 83 years after the surprise attack on Dec. 7, 1941.

But I don’t think any of us needed the reminder.

The National Park Service opened Pearl Harbor National Memorial in 1962, 21 years after the attack, which immediately thrust a reluctant United States into World War II.

It is somber, deeply emotional experience, a history lesson and memorial service all in one.

The entire site spans 21 acres, spread across land and sea. My husband and I spent three and a half hours there on our recent two-week tour of Hawaii, with another 90 minutes at the nearby Battleship Missouri Memorial. And we could have stayed much longer.

I thought I had a broad understanding of what happened here in 1941, but I learned a lot during my hours-long tour.

The Arizona is the centerpiece experience, but there is much more to explore, including two terrific museums, a short orientation film and a series of outdoor viewing areas with signage that help to explain more than what happened here, but also how and why.

And nearby, there are several other related sites including the USS Bowfin, a World War II-era submarine; the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, with dozens of military aircraft on display; and the USS Missouri Memorial, where World War II came to an end with the signing of the Japanese surrender in September 1945.

Touring the USS Arizona Memorial

The centerpiece of the park is a small white structure erected in the water atop the USS Arizona, the battleship that sunk within minutes of being hit by Japanese bombers shortly after 8 a.m. on that sunny Sunday.

Accessible only by boat, the Arizona Memorial, 184 feet long, straddles the sunken hull of the battleship without touching it.

The middle section of the memorial includes openings in the floor overlooking the Arizona. And at the far end: a marble wall listing all 1,177 names of those killed on the ship.

The Arizona is still leaking oil --- about 2 quarts a day, according to the Park Service. “To remove the oil would be to desecrate the tomb,” said Curtis. “Many of the survivors think of the oil droplets as the tears of their comrades.”

Peter Preis, son of the late Alfred Preis, who designed the memorial, described the architecture of the structure this way: The memorial sags in the center, expressing initial defeat, and then it swings up gently, symbolizing ultimate victory. “The overall effect is serenity, not sadness,” he explains in the audio guide.

Visitors are given about 15 minutes on the memorial, which is just enough time to see and process it all.

Note: Admission to Pearl Harbor National Memorial is free, although a $1 fee is assessed when making an advanced reservation for the boat ride over to the Arizona memorial. Reservations are available eight weeks in advance and often fill up quickly. Standby admission is available on some days.

On the day of our visit, which was Super Bowl Sunday, everybody in the standby line was able to get over to see the Arizona, but I was told that is not always the case.

Exploring the museums

Pearl Harbor’s two side-by-side museums, the Road to War Museum and the Attack Museum, are small but insightful, filled with artifacts and exhibits that provide both context and consequences for what happened in the years and months leading up to the attack as well as the period after.

Among the items on display:

* A first draft of President Franklin Roosevelt’s address to Congress on Dec. 7, which made famous the phrase “a date which will live in infamy.” The speech originally included “a date which will live in world history”; but “world history” is crossed out and “infamy” is written in instead.

* A clock from Chaplain Thomas Kirkpatrick’s Arizona stateroom, stopped at 8:05, the time the ship exploded, killing Kirkpatrick and more than 1,000 others. The clock was recovered in 1942.

* A U.S. government-issued gas mask, which residents were required to wear in Honolulu after the attack.

The bombing of Pearl Harbor is often described as a surprise attack, but it wasn’t a complete surprise to everyone.

A report in March 1941, dubbed the Martin-Bellinger Report, warned of the likelihood of a surprise air attack on Pearl Harbor and recommended daily air patrols. But because of shortages of aircraft and personnel, patrols were limited to times when “intelligence indicates that a surface raid is probable,” according to a museum exhibit.

On Dec. 7, at 6:30 a.m., American troops sunk a Japanese midget submarine trying to enter the harbor. And at about 7 a.m., operators at Opana Radar Station on the north side of Oahu spotted a large fleet of planes headed to the island. However, the planes were “assumed to be our own,” according to the exhibit.

They weren’t. “The detection of the mobile radar at Opana remains one of the great ‘what if’ questions surrounding Pearl Harbor,” reads one exhibit.

After about two hours of fighting, the attack was over. Total casualties: More than 2,400 Americans killed, almost half of whom were on the Arizona.

Curtis, on the audio guide, said the Japanese hoped the attack would demoralize the United States.

Instead, she said, “The attack did something Japan had not counted on – it united America.”

Touring the USS Missouri

Pearl Harbor is still an active naval base, consolidated with Hickam Air Force Base in 2010. Visitors to the USS Missouri Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum must take a free shuttle from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to access the sites.

The USS Missouri was not at Pearl Harbor during the attack in late 1941. In fact, it was still under construction in New York City, launched in late 1944 and sent to Iwo Jima and Okinawa.

Its main claim to fame during World War II came on Sept. 2, 1945 in Tokyo Bay, when the Japanese officially surrendered on the ship’s deck, ending World War II. A photo on a ship wall marks the spot where Gen. Douglas MacArthur, Japanese Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu and others gathered to sign the Instrument of Surrender.

“This is the exact spot where World War II ended,” said guide Duke Acenas. “It took 23 minutes to end more than six years of bloody conflict.”

The Missouri, sent to Korea in 1953, was decommissioned in 1955. In the mid-1980s, President Ronald Reagan recommissioned the Missouri, which was sent to the Persian Gulf War in 1990.

It has been opened to the public as a history museum since 1999.

Visitors can tour the deck as well as the lower levels, including living quarters, mess halls, machine room – the ship even had a doughnut shop.

The Missouri is docked along Pearl Harbor’s Battleship Row, bow to bow with the sunken Arizona.

Said Acenas, “They sit here as a symbol of peace for everyone around the world.”

If you go: Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Where: Pearl Harbor National Memorial is located about 3 miles from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, 8 miles from downtown and 11 miles from Waikiki Beach. We used Uber and cabs to get from the airport to our Waikiki hotel, to Pearl Harbor and back to the airport.

Hours: Open daily 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Admission: It’s free to visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial, although there is a $1 per person fee to make an advanced reservation to see the Arizona Memorial (see recreation.gov/ticket/facility/233338 ). The optional audio guide is $11 per person.

Admission to the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum/USS Bowfin is $21.99 for ages 13 and up; $34.99 to the Battleship Missouri Memorial ; and $25.99 to the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum .

Storing your bags: Pearl Harbor has a strict no-bag policy (details: nps.gov/perl/planyourvisit/safety.htm ). The adjacent Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum/USS Bowfin offers a baggage storage system that we used to store our luggage for the day. Information: bowfin.org/museum-site

More information: nps.gov/perl , pearlharborhistoricsites.org

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©2024 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit cleveland.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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The 10 best personal item bags, tested & reviewed.

Find your best carry-on companion with our top editor picks.

The Best Personal Item Bags

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

When you're traveling on an airplane, there are certain items like your wallet, phone, passport, medications and earbuds that you always want to keep close. These are the items you'll want to pack in your personal item bag, along with other in-flight comfort items or perhaps a few souvenirs you're bringing home with you. When it comes to a personal item, there are many options that could be right for you, though keep in mind what airlines will allow can vary.

What size is a personal item bag?

This item can be a purse , bag or backpack that easily fits under the seat in front of you. For most domestic airlines, your personal item should be 18 x 14 x 8 inches or smaller. Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag that goes into the overhead bin and one personal item bag that can be stowed under the seat. For both carry-on and personal item bags, it's important to check your airline's carry-on luggage size requirements and policies.

To help you decide what personal item bag meets your needs, our editors shared their go-to bags they personally use when traveling by air.

Best Foldable: Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Hip Pack: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Hip Pack

Best tote: everlane the recycled nylon tote, best backpack: away the everywhere zip backpack, best organization: nomad lane bento bag, best washable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best laptop backpack: fila argus 5 laptop backpack, best for adventure travel: osprey nebula 32, best affordable: gorilla wear duncan backpack, best duffel: lipault city plume 24h bag 2.0.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of personal item bags are height by width by depth.)

Nicola Wood | U.S. News

Price: $155 or less

Travelers will frequently spot this classic tote at airports and hotels around the world for good reason. It folds up easily for storage when not in use, and it has a roomy main compartment with a small interior pocket for a phone, boarding pass and a cardholder. Longchamp's Le Pliage Large tote is made of the brand's durable water-resistant nylon and finished with its signature embossed leather trim.

What our editors say:

I love traveling with my Longchamp Le Pliage tote. It's big enough to hold a laptop and all other essentials, and it has both a zipper and a snap-close leather flap, so you won't have to worry about anything falling out during travel. It is versatile enough to use throughout your vacation as a handbag, or you can fold it up and store it away once you reach your destination. The Le Pliage tote is made of nylon, so it is water-resistant and easy to wipe clean after traveling. There is a small interior pocket that can hold a boarding pass, phone or cardholder, or you can pop in a separate organizer from Amazon for multiple interior compartments. The Le Pliage tote comes in a variety of colors, so there's something for everyone. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $30 or less

If you're looking to travel light and maximize leg space, this Cotopaxi hip pack is ideal. Strap it around your waist or shoulder for hands-free travel, and reach your wallet or passport quickly. There's a spacious main compartment for your phone, wallet and boarding pass. Plus, a front zippered compartment can hold things like gum or earbuds. Constructed of 100% fabric scraps, each hip pack is sustainable and one-of-a-kind.

My top priority when traveling by plane is ample leg room, so Cotopaxi fanny packs are the perfect under-the-seat choice. I like the smaller Kapai 1.5 L Hip Pack for storing my essentials on shorter flights: phone, wallet, tissues, lip balm and earbuds. (There's also a 3L version .) For longer flights, the larger Allpa X 4L Hip Pack can fit a lot more, including a small book, Nintendo Switch and snack. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $85 or less

This versatile tote is constructed with recycled nylon, which makes it easy to clean as well as sustainable. The padded bottom helps to protect your laptop and other contents. The main compartment has a zippered pocket and a 13-inch laptop sleeve. You can carry the bag with its tote straps or over the shoulder, and there's an exterior slip pocket for small items.

My favorite thing about this bag is that it's structured, but also easily pliable when it's time to stow it underneath my seat. The exterior pocket allows for easy access to small items like earbuds and hand sanitizer, and the larger main compartment is roomy enough for my laptop, 32-ounce water bottle, snacks, a small toiletry bag and a book. I also appreciate its sleek simplicity and sustainable materials. – Ann Henson , Assistant Managing Editor

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $195 or less

This backpack from Away has a variety of interior and exterior pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve with a magnetic locking zipper, an interior mesh pocket for a small water bottle and two external hidden pockets. It has a versatile design that works for trips to the office, day tours and leisure trips. For carrying options, the backpack has comfortable padded shoulder straps and a trolley sleeve to secure it to your favorite carry-on bag.

For my personal item, I'm all about function over fashion and this bag manages to hit both marks. I especially love the interior key clip – I actually use it for my wallet so I easily find my ID and credit card and not risk losing them. – Amanda Norcross , Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $298 or less

The Nomad Lane Bento Bag has a sleek and professional look that makes it work for both personal and business travel, especially with the 16-inch padded laptop sleeve that you can access from the top. It comes with a toiletries pouch and an electronics organizer that tuck inside two exterior pockets, so you can easily remove them at security. The bag has a variety of organizational pockets, including a trolley sleeve that converts into a pocket. It works well as a personal item bag, and can be used as a weekender bag if you're a light packer.

The Bento Bag is truly exceptional for organization. Not only can it fit a ton for its size, but I love how it also keeps my belongings separated and neat while still easy to access on the go. When I travel with it, the bag is comfortable to carry and fits under the seat in front of me with no issue. I also just appreciate how sophisticated it looks. – Catriona Kendall , Editor

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

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Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

This timeless design has sturdy straps to comfortably carry the bag through airports and more. It's affordable, durable and machine washable. The interior compartment can accommodate everything from a toiletry bag to souvenirs, yet it still fits under the seat with a comfortable amount of room for your feet.

I've used this Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag as my personal item for years. I love the soft-sided design of this bag and it can fit an impressive amount. There's also an interior zippered pocket and two smaller open pockets for organization. Typically, I'll pack my laptop, various chargers, one to two books, an extra set of clothes and shoes, my wallet, my makeup bag, AirPods, snacks, a water bottle, and my phone. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Suzanne Mason | U.S. News

Price: $70 or less

Perfect as a work, gym or travel bag, this durable backpack has multiple pockets to keep everything organized wherever you roam. The budget-friendly backpack has a spacious main compartment with an internal mesh pocket and a separate 15-inch laptop compartment. Its padded straps provide comfort while carrying the bag for long periods of time, and the front zippered compartment is ideal for a boarding pass, pen or phone.

I love my Fila Argus 5 Laptop Backpack. I use it for both travel and for work. The backpack has a pocket in the back separating the main space in the back. I usually carry my iPad or laptop there and use the rest of the space to carry any items I couldn't fit in my luggage or trinkets that I'm bringing back for souvenirs. The front pocket I love because it's a zippered space where I can put my important traveling documents and other miscellaneous items needed for my travels. The backpack straps are wide and padded making it comfortable to wear on my back. The backpack is small enough to fit under a plane seat if you need to access the bag while in flight. – Suzanne Mason , Editor

Zach Watson | U.S. News

Price: $140 or less

This spacious backpack offers the design features of a more technical backpack − like a removable webbing belt along with top and bottom compression straps − but with an emphasis on everyday needs. There are numerous interior pockets to keep all of your travel essentials securely stowed, a TSA-approved laptop sleeve and a front zippered organization pocket. The exterior has two deep, adjustable side pockets that can fit two Nalgene-size water bottles. The Osprey Nebula 32 features two padded straps and a breathable back to help make carrying the bag more comfortable, even in humid climates.

My Osprey Nebula 32 is in the running for my oldest personal possession; I've used it for over a decade. That means this Nebula pack started as a college backpack, lugging my textbooks between classes in Chicago snowstorms before joining me in Washington, D.C., where it kept my belongings safe on my humid (and occasionally rainy) bike commutes. Now, I primarily use my backpack for hiking and flying, and it still holds up remarkably well despite my regular mistreatment. I don't intend to replace my go-to personal item anytime soon, so this Osprey backpack has absolutely justified its admittedly high upfront cost. – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Alissa Grisler | U.S. News

Price: $59.99 or less

Durable and ideal for everyday use or adventures afar, this backpack has a simple design with plenty of packing space. The spacious interior can hold a lot, including your toiletry bag, reading material, change of clothes and more. The laptop sleeve and variety of compartments help to keep items organized and in place. The exterior offers adjustable padded shoulder straps and a waist strap for comfort, a headphone opening, two mesh pockets and a front zippered compartment.

When purchasing a bag, I am looking for something that is durable and multifunctional. With its many storage compartments and large carrying capacity (perfect for the chronic over-packer or anyone who just can't say no to a souvenir), this bag is perfect for both travel and everyday use. – Alissa Grisler , Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $135 or less

Lightweight and constructed with water repellent nylon, this bag is durable, yet sophisticated. There are two large front pockets for smaller items like a 3-1-1 bag, headphones, wipes and small travel essentials, plus a side pocket for a water bottle or small items. Inside, the spacious interior compartment has a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets and a mesh pocket for keeping things organized, in addition to room for a toiletry bag, in-flight needs and souvenirs you find along the way. The bag features a separate zippered laptop compartment on the back, along with a trolley sleeve to attach it to your carry-on bag, like the coordinating Plume Cabin Size Spinner . What's more, it folds flat to save space when not in use.

I bought my original Lipault City Plume bag for my first trip to Europe over a decade ago. It's been a top pick for my travels for years, and it still looks and works great. The updated City Plume 24H Bag 2.0 is beautifully constructed, stays looking great even through the rigors of travel, fits perfectly under the seat and holds a lot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood strives to be a carry-on only traveler. Over the years she's tested a variety of bags from multiple brands at an array of prices. To curate this article, she asked her team of editors to share their favorite personal item bags that have worked for all types of travel scenarios.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Checked Luggage, Tested by Editors
• The Best Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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