Experience the Arizona Memorial: A Journey into American History at Pearl Harbor
Step Back in Time at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
Visiting the Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor offers a powerful, emotionally charged experience that immerses you in one of the most significant moments in American history. Your journey begins at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where you’ll engage with informative exhibits and view a compelling documentary. This introduction details the dramatic events of December 7, 1941, and prepares you for the solemn experience that awaits.
Reflection and Tribute at the USS Arizona Memorial
Next, board a boat for a serene ride across the harbor to the USS Arizona Memorial. Operated by the U.S. Navy, this boat ride leads you to the iconic white structure, which rests above the sunken remains of the battleship. From here, you can view the ship’s outline just below the water’s surface, serving as a poignant reminder of the attack that altered the course of history.
You will witness the moving sight of oil droplets rising from the wreckage, often referred to as “The Tears of the Arizona.” These droplets continue to emerge from the ship’s sunken hull, providing a powerful tribute to the 1,177 sailors and Marines who lost their lives that day. Their names are engraved on a memorial wall, providing a space for quiet reflection and remembrance.
Explore Historic Honolulu on a Scenic Tour
The experience continues with a scenic drive through Honolulu, where you’ll pass by historic landmarks. Marvel at the serene Punchbowl National Cemetery, located in an extinct volcanic crater, and take in views of the Iolani Palace, the only royal residence in the United States. You’ll also see the legendary King Kamehameha Statue, which commemorates the king who unified the Hawaiian Islands. Stop by the charming Kawaiaha’o Church, one of Oahu’s oldest places of worship, and the historic Ali’iolani Hale, home to Hawaii’s State Supreme Court and the iconic statue of King Kamehameha.
Tour Highlights
- Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Visitor Center (2 Hours): Explore exhibits about the events leading up to the December 7, 1941 attack, and watch a documentary before taking a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial.
- USS Arizona Memorial (1 Hour): Visit the open-air memorial above the sunken battleship and view the “Tears of the Arizona” oil droplets. Pay respects at the Remembrance Wall.
- Punchbowl National Cemetery (Pass Through): A peaceful resting place for U.S. service members, offering a chance for reflection.
- Iolani Palace (Viewed from King Kamehameha Statue): Former royal residence and a symbol of Hawaii’s monarchy.
- Kawaiaha’o Church (Drive-by): Known as the “Westminster Abbey of the Pacific,” it holds deep historical and religious significance.
- King Kamehameha Statue (15 Minutes): A tribute to the king who unified Hawaii.
- Ali’iolani Hale (Drive-by): Home to the Hawaii State Supreme Court and the famous King Kamehameha statue.
What’s Included
- Roundtrip airfare from Kahului, Maui to Honolulu International Airport on Oahu
- Pick-up and drop-off transportation from Honolulu International Airport
- Entry tickets to all attractions on the tour, provided by your guide
- Narration from a local guide during the Honolulu portion of the tour (Pearl Harbor portion is self-guided)
- Air-conditioned vehicle
What’s Not Included
- Meals (at your own expense)
- Gratuities
What You Should Bring
- Government-issued photo ID (passport if traveling from outside the U.S.)
- Cash for tipping the guide (optional)
- Comfortable clothes and covered shoes (swimwear is not allowed at Pearl Harbor)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and camera
What You Should Know
- Flight Information:
- Depart: 6:00 AM – 6:15 AM
- Arrival: 6:45 AM – 7:00 AM
- Check-in at least 1 hour prior to departure
- Pick-up Location:
- Southwest Airlines passengers: Outside Terminal 2, baggage claim 31, pick-up location #5
- Hawaiian Airlines passengers: Outside baggage claim at pick-up location #1
- Look for the van with the Aloha Sunshine Tours logo
- Tour Attraction Tickets:
- All entry fees for the tour attractions are included in the tour price, and your guide will provide your tickets on the day of the tour.
- Please note that the National Park Service does not guarantee pre-arranged Arizona Memorial boat passes. In the unlikely event they are unavailable, you will be directed to the walk-up line, with a typical wait time of about one hour.
- Conduct and Dress Code:
- Pearl Harbor is a site of significant loss and serves as the final resting place for many. Visitors are expected to dress and conduct themselves appropriately in respect for the memorial.
- Comfortable shoes are recommended as the tour involves walking for extended periods.
- Smoking is not allowed at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.
- Swimwear is not permitted.
- Bag Policy:
- Bags and purses are not allowed inside Pearl Harbor. You may store bags for a $7.00 fee. Clear plastic bags are allowed.
- Bags containing medical equipment unsuitable for transparent bags are permitted.
- Food and Beverages:
- Meals are not included. You can purchase food at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where food trucks, snack stands, and cafes are available. It is also recommended to bring snacks and water bottles that can be easily carried.
Visiting the Arizona Memorial is not just a tour—it’s an opportunity to honor and reflect on a pivotal moment in history. Book your tour today to experience Pearl Harbor and Honolulu in a meaningful way.
