Complete Pearl Harbor Experience Tour from The Big Island

Exciting Pearl Harbor Tour Accessible from the Big Island for $499.99

This full-day guided tour from the Big Island offers a comprehensive visit to Pearl Harbor, including round-trip airfare to Honolulu, entry to key historical sites, and expert narration. For $499.99 per person, you get an action-packed 9 to 11-hour experience that covers most major Pearl Harbor attractions in a single day. The tour departs early at 7:00 am, and pickup is offered, making logistics easier for visitors staying on the Big Island.

While this tour is ideal for those eager to explore Pearl Harbor without the hassle of organizing flights and transportation, it does require a significant time commitment—most of the day is spent traveling and touring. The ability to see the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin, Battleship Missouri, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum makes it a rich, educational experience, especially for history enthusiasts. Please note that the tour does not include transportation from Kona International Airport and involves walking and standing at various stops.

Key Points

• Includes round-trip airfare from the Big Island to Honolulu, simplifying travel logistics.
• Visiting major Pearl Harbor sites, such as the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine, and Battleship Missouri, with tickets included.
• Expert narration enhances understanding of WWII events and site significance.
• Tour duration spans approximately 9 to 11 hours, with a well-paced itinerary.
• Limited to 40 guests, maintaining a manageable and engaging group size.
• Not suitable for those unable to walk about four city blocks or prefer shorter visits.

Round-Trip Airfare from the Big Island to Honolulu

The tour begins with round-trip airfare to Honolulu, included in the $499.99 price, removing the need for travelers to book flights separately. This arrangement makes the experience more convenient for visitors staying on the Big Island, as they are picked up from their location and flown directly to Honolulu. The airfare is a major convenience, particularly for those pressed for time or unfamiliar with travel logistics between the islands.

The flight is scheduled early to maximize touring time on Oahu. After arrival, travelers are transported to Pearl Harbor on a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, ready to explore the historic sites. The pickup service ensures a smooth start and return, easing the overall experience.

Visiting Pearl Harbor’s Historic Sites and Memorials

The tour’s core focus is the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, starting at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Here, visitors explore exhibits that explain the events leading to the attack on December 7, 1941, and watch a 23-minute documentary providing contextual background. The guided narration helps deepen understanding of the significance of the USS Arizona, which is directly visible from the memorial.

The USS Arizona Memorial itself is a key highlight. This white, open-air structure spans the remains of the sunken battleship, creating a poignant space for reflection. Visitors can look down into the water to see parts of the wreckage, with oil droplets—often called “The Tears of the Arizona”—rising to the surface. The Remembrance Wall inscribed with the names of 1,177 crew members adds emotional weight to this visit.

Exploring the USS Bowfin Submarine and Museum

Next, the tour includes a visit to the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park. The admission tickets cover a self-guided tour of the submarine, where visitors can listen to narrated commentary through provided headphones. Inside the museum, detailed exhibits showcase the submarine’s history and role during WWII. The 1 hour 30 minutes spent here offers a close look at submarine life and warfare.

This stop provides a tangible connection to naval history, with the chance to walk through a WWII submarine and visualize the conditions sailors endured. The included tickets ensure no additional costs or reservations are needed.

Tour of the Battleship Missouri and Laniakea Cafe Lunch Stop

The next major attraction is the USS Missouri Battleship, docked at Ford Island. The tour includes a deck tour of this iconic vessel, one of the last battleships commissioned by the U.S. Navy. Visitors learn about its significant role in WWII and later conflicts, with insights from the guide.

After the Missouri, the tour features a no-host lunch stop at Laniakea Cafe, allowing for a break and some personal time. This scheduling balances sightseeing with a relaxed meal, though travelers should budget extra time and funds for lunch.

Visiting the USS Oklahoma Memorial and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

The USS Oklahoma Memorial is a somber site, displaying 429 marble sticks dedicated to soldiers lost during the attack. The short 15-minute stop offers a reflective moment amid the more active touring schedule.

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum provides insight into military aviation history. The admission covers access to exhibits and aircraft on display, though the flight simulator is not included. Spending around 1 hour 30 minutes here, visitors explore historic aircraft and learn about the role of air power in WWII.

Discovering Honolulu’s Downtown Highlights

The tour also takes visitors into downtown Honolulu, where local guides narrate stories about the city’s history and cultural heritage. This 45-minute stop gives a taste of Honolulu’s vibrant atmosphere, with sights such as historic buildings and local landmarks.

Following this, the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific atop Punchbowl Crater offers a serene final stop. Visitors admire the white headstones set against lush greenery, with sweeping views of the Honolulu coastline, Diamond Head, and the city skyline. This visit lasts about 15 minutes and underscores respect for the fallen military personnel.

Visiting Iolani Palace, King Kamehameha Statue, and Kawaiahao Church

The tour includes a quick stop at Iolani Palace, the only royal residence in the United States. The guide shares stories about Hawaii’s monarchy, including King Kalākaua and Queen Liliuokalani. The 15-minute visit is free of charge but offers valuable context about Hawaii’s royal past.

From the palace, visitors view the King Kamehameha Statue, symbolizing Hawaiian unity and strength, situated in front of the Hawaii State Supreme Court building. The guide also discusses the significance of Kawaiahao Church, one of the oldest Christian worship sites in Hawaii, often called the “Westminster Abbey of the Pacific.”

Practical Information and Tour Details

This all-inclusive tour supplies air-conditioned transportation, all entry tickets, and narration by a local guide. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with plenty of opportunity for questions.

While meals are at your own expense, on-site food options at Pearl Harbor and nearby sites are available, including food trucks and cafes. Bags are not allowed inside Pearl Harbor, but storage is available for $7.00. The tour operates rain or shine, though sites may close due to weather conditions.

Most importantly, visitors are encouraged to maintain respectful silence inside the memorials, honoring those lost in the attack. The tour is not recommended for travelers who cannot walk about four city blocks, given the amount of walking involved.

The Experience from Aloha Sunshine Tours

Aloha Sunshine Tours, the provider, is praised for its well-organized arrangements and knowledgeable guides. The reviews highlight that everything is set up for a smooth experience, with guides providing engaging, insightful commentary that enhances understanding of the sites’ history.

The attention to detail and the inclusion of all major attractions make this tour a value-packed way to see Pearl Harbor from the Big Island. The free cancellation policy adds flexibility, allowing for refund if plans change, provided cancellations happen at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts on the Pearl Harbor Day Trip

This tour offers a thorough and convenient way to visit Pearl Harbor’s most significant sites without the need for separate flight bookings or transportation planning. It is best suited for history buffs and those interested in WWII, especially because most major sites are included with tickets, guided narration, and transportation.

While the long duration might be challenging for some, the comprehensive itinerary ensures a meaningful and educational experience. Returning with a deeper understanding of the attack and its aftermath, visitors leave with valuable insights and respectful memories of this historic place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to and from the Big Island included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip airfare to Honolulu from the Big Island, along with pickup.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes approximately 9 to 11 hours, starting at 7:00 am.

Are all attraction tickets included?
Yes, admission tickets to all the main sites—Pearl Harbor museum, USS Arizona, USS Bowfin, Battleship Missouri, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum—are included.

Can I bring bags inside Pearl Harbor?
No, bags are not allowed inside the memorials, but storage is available for $7.00.

Is the tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
It is not recommended for travelers who cannot walk about four city blocks, as there will be walking at several sites.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Does the tour include food?
No, meals are at your own expense, but onsite options are available at Pearl Harbor and nearby locations.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, a maximum of 40 travelers keeps the group manageable and engaging.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of all-inclusive tickets, expert narration, and the convenience of round-trip flights from the Big Island makes it a comprehensive, hassle-free way to experience Pearl Harbor.