Explore Hawaii’s Rich History on the WWII Battleships & Historic Honolulu Tour
Step into the Past and Relive Hawaii’s Iconic Moments
Embark on a remarkable journey through Hawaii’s storied past, where world-changing events and ancient traditions unfold. This immersive experience isn’t just a tour—it’s a unique opportunity to connect with the history of heroism, sacrifice, and cultural heritage that shaped Hawaii and the world.
Battleships of WWII at Pearl Harbor: Honoring the Heroes
Your adventure begins at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where you’ll dive deep into the events of December 7, 1941. As you explore the captivating exhibits, watch an engaging documentary that sets the scene for the unforgettable moments that follow. Then, take a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, standing above the sunken battleship, a resting place for over 1,000 brave sailors. The “Tears of the Arizona,” the slow release of oil still rising from the wreckage, serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic day.
Next, step aboard the Battleship Missouri, the site where WWII officially ended. Walk the historic decks and experience the massive guns that once stood as a symbol of might. Discover the ship’s incredible legacy and its role in the conclusion of one of history’s most significant conflicts. Your visit also includes the USS Oklahoma Memorial, where you’ll honor the 429 crew members who perished when the ship capsized during the attack.
Historic Downtown Honolulu: Discovering Hawaii’s Royal Legacy
The tour continues with a scenic drive through Honolulu’s iconic sites, starting with Punchbowl National Cemetery. Situated in a volcanic crater, this peaceful memorial offers a serene space for reflection on the sacrifices made by American service members.
From there, delve into Hawaii’s royal past at the magnificent Iolani Palace, the only royal residence in the United States. Stroll through the palace grounds and admire the grandeur of Hawaiian monarchy, a rich blend of tradition and Western influence. Just a short walk away, marvel at the King Kamehameha Statue, a tribute to the legendary king who unified the Hawaiian Islands.
As you pass the historic Kawaiaha’o Church, known as the “Westminster Abbey of the Pacific,” and the Ali’iolani Hale, home to Hawaii’s Supreme Court, you’ll feel the powerful presence of Hawaiian history in the air.
Don’t miss this chance to experience the stories that shaped Hawaii and the world. Book your tour today and create unforgettable memories.
Tour Overview
Pick-Up Times:
Between 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Tour Start Time:
Daily at 7:00 AM
Duration:
9 – 10 hours
Note: All times are approximate.
Tour Highlights
Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Visitor Center (2 Hours):
Explore exhibits that cover the build-up to the December 7, 1941, attack.
Watch a documentary and take a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial.
USS Arizona Memorial (1 Hour):
Visit the memorial above the sunken battleship.
Witness the “Tears of the Arizona” oil droplets and the Remembrance Wall listing the 1,177 fallen crew members.
Battleship Missouri Deck Tour:
Walk the deck where Japan formally surrendered, bringing WWII to an end.
View the massive guns and learn about the ship’s service history.
USS Oklahoma Memorial:
Reflect on the 429 crew members who died when the ship capsized.
View the symbolic white marble pillars commemorating the fallen sailors.
Historic Downtown Honolulu (45 Minutes):
Punchbowl National Cemetery: A peaceful resting place for U.S. service members.
Iolani Palace: The only royal palace in the U.S., rich in history and grandeur.
Kawaiaha’o Church: Known as the “Westminster Abbey of the Pacific,” a significant site in Hawaiian history.
King Kamehameha Statue (15 Minutes): A tribute to the king who united Hawaii.
Ali’iolani Hale: The home of Hawaii’s Supreme Court.
What’s Included
Roundtrip airfare from Kona International Airport to Honolulu International Airport.
Ground transportation to and from Honolulu International Airport.
Entry tickets for all attractions included.
A knowledgeable local guide providing insights and stories during the Honolulu portion of the tour.
Air-conditioned vehicle for the duration of the tour.
What’s Not Included
Transportation to Kona International Airport is not included.
Meals are at your own expense.
Gratuities.
What You Should Bring
Government-issued photo ID (passport if traveling from outside the U.S.).
Comfortable clothing and closed shoes (swimwear not allowed at Pearl Harbor).
Cash for tipping your guide (if you enjoyed the tour).
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Camera for capturing unforgettable moments.
Important Information
Departing Airport Flight Information:
Approximate flight times: Departure at 6:00 AM – 6:15 AM, Arrival between 6:45 AM – 7:00 AM.
Check-in at least 1 hour before departure.
Pick-Up Information Upon Arrival in Oahu:
For Southwest passengers: Outside Terminal 2, Baggage Claim 31, at pre-arranged pick-up location #5.
For Hawaiian Airlines passengers: Outside the Hawaiian Terminal at Baggage Claim, Pick-Up Location #1.
Look for the Aloha Sunshine Tours van.
Entry to Attractions:
Your guide will provide all tickets for the attractions. No need to purchase separately.
In the rare event the pre-arranged Arizona Memorial boat passes are unavailable, you will be directed to the walk-up line.
Conduct and Dress Code:
Remember that Pearl Harbor is a site of great loss and sacrifice, and appropriate conduct is expected.
Comfortable shoes are recommended as there is a fair amount of walking.
Smoking is prohibited on the grounds, and swimwear is not permitted.
Self-Guided Exploration:
Pearl Harbor is self-guided with park rangers available for questions. Your guide will inform you of meeting times during the Pearl Harbor segment.
Bag Policy:
Bags are not allowed inside Pearl Harbor but can be stored for a fee.
Clear plastic bags are allowed, as are medical bags.
Food and Beverages:
Meals are at your own expense.
On-site dining options include food trucks and cafes at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
Join this unforgettable journey through Hawaii’s profound history and make memories that will last a lifetime. Book your tour now and experience the legacy of heroes and history.
