Travel to Honolulu from Kauai for a comprehensive Arizona Memorial Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour at a cost of $399.99 per person. This 5 to 6-hour experience features round trip airfare, expert guides, and visits to iconic sites such as the USS Arizona Memorial, Iolani Palace, and the Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetery.

Starting early at 7:00 am, the tour offers pickup from Kauai‘s Lihue Airport, making it a convenient option for those seeking an informative and emotionally resonant day. The tour’s structure balances historical insight, reflective moments, and a taste of Honolulu’s vibrant city life. With admission tickets included for the USS Arizona Memorial and guided commentary, this tour provides a rich overview of Hawaii’s wartime history and royal heritage.

While the tour is designed for most travelers, some walking is required—it’s best suited for those comfortable walking up to four city blocks. The package is ideal for history buffs, families, or anyone wanting a well-rounded day combining military history with Hawaiian culture.

Key Points

Includes round-trip airfare from Kauai’s Lihue Airport to Honolulu
Visits the USS Arizona Memorial, with a 10-minute boat ride across the harbor
Guided tour of historic downtown Honolulu, Iolani Palace, and Punchbowl Cemetery
Total duration of 5-6 hours, with ample time for reflection and sightseeing
Expert narration provides context and insights at every stop
All tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial are included, with guidance on respectful silence during memorial visits

Departure from Kauai to Honolulu with Airfare Included

This tour begins early at 7:00 am, with round trip airfare from Lihue Airport on Kauai to Honolulu International Airport included in the price. The package streamlines travel logistics, making it easy to focus on the experience rather than transport planning.

Participants are transported in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the day, with the tour group capped at 24 travelers for a more personal experience. Note that transportation to Lihue Airport on Kauai is not included, so planning your arrival is necessary. The tour’s timing ensures you make the most of the daylight hours, with most stops designed to be 45 minutes to 1.5 hours long.

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Exploring the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and the USS Arizona Memorial

The first stop is the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Visitor Center, where you begin with exhibits that set the scene for December 7, 1941. A 23-minute documentary film helps narrate the events leading up to the attack, highlighting its significance.

After the exhibits, visitors board a U.S. Navy-operated boat for a 10-minute ride across the harbor. The calm waters and views of military installations set the tone for the visit ahead. The boat ride itself provides a peaceful moment before arriving at the USS Arizona Memorial.

The USS Arizona Memorial is an open-air structure that stretches over the wreckage of the sunken battleship. Visitors can look down into the water to see parts of the ship relics, with oil droplets—often called “The Tears of the Arizona”—continuing to rise to the surface. The Remembrance Wall inscribed with 1,177 names honors those lost, fostering a somber and respectful atmosphere.

Reflection and Respect at the Arizona Memorial

Inside the memorial, the focus on remembrance is palpable. Visitors are encouraged to maintain respectful silence while reflecting on the sacrifices made by the sailors and Marines. The view of the wreckage and the poignant display of “The Tears” make this stop a profound emotional experience.

The admission tickets are included in the tour, removing any hassle at the site. The one and a half hours allocated here provide enough time for viewing, photos, and contemplation without feeling rushed.

Touring Downtown Honolulu and the Hawaiian Monarchy at Iolani Palace

The tour continues with a 45-minute guided visit to downtown Honolulu, where the guide shares stories about the city’s blend of history and modern life. This segment offers a snapshot of Honolulu’s vibrant urban landscape, interwoven with historical narratives.

Next, the visit takes you to Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States. In about 15 minutes, visitors learn about Hawaii’s monarchy, including stories about King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani. The palace’s architecture and historical significance make it a highlight for those interested in Hawaiian sovereignty and royal heritage.

Adjacent to the palace, the King Kamehameha Statue stands as a symbol of Hawaii’s unity and strength, offering a photo opportunity and a connection to the islands’ history of leadership.

Visiting the Punchbowl Cemetery and Hawaiian Religious Sites

A trip to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific occurs next, set atop Punchbowl Crater. The well-maintained grounds are the resting place for thousands of U.S. military members and offer stunning views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the coastline.

The Punchbowl site provides a reflective space with rows of white headstones, surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic vistas. The cemetery’s location on an extinct volcano adds a dramatic backdrop to this somber stop.

The tour also includes a look at Kawaiahao Church, often called the “Westminster Abbey of the Pacific.” This historic church is one of Hawaii’s oldest Christian worship sites, and the guide shares its importance in Hawaiian religious and cultural history.

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Practical Information and Tour Details

The tour includes all tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial and professional guide narration at every stop. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort through the day, with most stops lasting 15 to 45 minutes.

Bags are not allowed inside Pearl Harbor, but clear plastic bags are permitted, and all bags may be stored for $7 each. The tour emphasizes respectful conduct and quiet reflection at the memorial sites.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and prepare for a fair amount of walking, especially around sites like Iolani Palace and Punchbowl Cemetery. The experience is not recommended for those unable to walk around four city blocks without difficulty.

The Value and Suitability of This Tour

Priced at $399.99, this tour offers a comprehensive day of historical touring, cultural insights, and scenic views. The inclusion of round trip airfare and all major admissions makes it a convenient choice for visitors arriving from Kauai.

The small group size of up to 24 travelers enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized interaction with guides and a more relaxed pace. The early start and packed schedule suit those interested in maximizing their time in Honolulu, especially with limited days allocated to the city.

It’s especially suited for history enthusiasts, families, or anyone interested in Hawaiian royalty and military history. However, those with limited mobility should consider the walking requirements before booking.

Arizona Memorial Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour: Final Thoughts

This tour combines the powerful emotional weight of Pearl Harbor with a broader exploration of Honolulu’s landmarks. The inclusion of a guided narration, historic sites, and scenic vistas makes it a well-rounded experience.

While the schedule is tight, the value lies in the all-inclusive pricing, expert guides, and the opportunity to see key sites in a single day. The respectful atmosphere at the memorials and the insights into Hawaiian history add depth to the experience.

This tour appeals most to those who want a focused, meaningful day of sightseeing, learning, and reflection, with convenience and comfort built into the package.

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Arizona Memorial Pearl Harbor And Honolulu City Tour from Kauai

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include round-trip airfare?
Yes, the price includes round-trip airfare from Kauai’s Lihue Airport to Honolulu International Airport.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, with most time spent traveling and visiting sites.

Are tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial included?
Yes, admission tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial are included, along with a boat ride across the harbor.

Is there any physical activity required?
Yes, participants should be prepared to walk up to four city blocks, especially around sites like Iolani Palace and Punchbowl Cemetery.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most bookings are made around 12 days in advance, but early reservations are recommended due to limited group sizes.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included; visitors should plan to bring snacks or eat before or after the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider the walking requirements and the reflective nature of the memorial stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are advised; avoid swimwear and smoking is prohibited at sites.

Can I store my bags at Pearl Harbor?
Yes, all bags may be stored for $7 each, but purses and bags are not allowed inside the memorials.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or rescheduling will be offered.