Arizona Memorial Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour from Maui

Traveling from Maui to Honolulu for a day of history and city sights becomes straightforward with the Arizona Memorial Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour from Maui. Priced at $399.99 per person, this tour includes round-trip flights, entry tickets to Pearl Harbor, and guided visits to key Honolulu landmarks. With a duration of approximately 5 to 6 hours, it offers a compact but comprehensive look at Oahu’s WWII history and cultural sights. Travelers often book this tour about 65 days in advance, indicating well-planned logistics and strong popularity.

The tour is ideal for those who want to maximize a day on Oahu without the hassle of independent planning. It combines historical significance with city exploration, making it suited for visitors eager for a full experience that covers Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace, and other iconic sites. Despite its busy schedule, the inclusion of airfare, tickets, and guided narration provides good value, especially for first-time visitors.

Key Points

• Includes round-trip flights from Maui to Honolulu, simplifying travel logistics
• Entry tickets to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial are included, with a 10-minute boat ride across the harbor
• Guided tour of Honolulu’s historic sites, including Iolani Palace, Kawaiahao Church, and Punchbowl Cemetery
• Tour duration is approximately 5 to 6 hours, with most of the day dedicated to sightseeing
• Group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience
• Not suitable for those with limited walking ability or those who prefer a leisurely pace

How the Tour Opens with Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona

The day begins at the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Visitor Center, where the focus is on understanding the events of December 7, 1941. Visitors can explore exhibits and watch a 23-minute documentary film that provides a succinct overview of the attack and its implications.

Following the film, participants board a U.S. Navy-operated boat for the short, 10-minute ride across the harbor to reach the USS Arizona Memorial. This boat ride offers views of nearby military installations, setting an authentic tone for the visit. The memorial itself is a white, open-air structure that spans the remains of the sunken battleship, creating a poignant atmosphere for reflection.

Respectful Reflection at the USS Arizona Memorial

The USS Arizona Memorial is the heart of the Pearl Harbor visit, designed to honor the sailors and Marines who lost their lives during the attack. Visitors look down into the water to see parts of the sunken battleship, with oil droplets—often called “The Tears of the Arizona”—rising to the surface, symbolizing ongoing remembrance.

A remembrance wall inscribed with 1,177 names stands at the memorial’s end, serving as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war. The environment encourages a quiet, respectful atmosphere, where visitors can take a moment for personal reflection. The entire time at Pearl Harbor lasts roughly two hours, offering a comprehensive look without feeling overly rushed.

Exploring Honolulu’s Historic Downtown and Memorials

After the solemnity of Pearl Harbor, the tour shifts to downtown Honolulu, where an expert guide narrates stories and insights about the city’s cultural and historical landmarks. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, during which visitors see a mix of modern city life and Hawaiian heritage.

Next, the group visits the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl Crater. This site features rows of white headstones set against lush greenery, with stunning views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the coastline. The crater’s elevation provides a scenic backdrop, emphasizing the importance of this military resting place.

Discovering Iolani Palace and the Kamehameha Statue

The tour’s highlight of Hawaiian monarchy history is a brief visit to Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States. The guide shares stories about King Kamehameha I, King Kalākaua, and Queen Liliuokalani, offering insights into Hawaii’s monarchical past. While the visit is approximately 15 minutes, it leaves a strong impression of Hawaii’s unique regal history.

Adjacent to the palace, the King Kamehameha Statue symbolizes Hawaii’s unity and strength. The group also visits Kawaiahao Church, known as the “Westminster Abbey of the Pacific”, which is one of the oldest Christian sites in Hawaii. The guide discusses its role in Hawaiian religious and social history.

Convenient Logistics and Guided Narration

The tour starts at 7:00 am with pickup options, and includes air-conditioned transportation throughout the day. The round-trip airfare from Kahului Airport (Maui) to Honolulu International Airport is included, removing the hassle of separate bookings. Entry tickets to all attractions are provided on the day, and the local guide shares stories that add context and depth to each stop.

It’s important to note that purses and bags are not allowed inside Pearl Harbor; storage is available for $7 per bag. The tour is most suitable for those able to walk about four city blocks, as some sites require a moderate amount of walking.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes since much of the tour involves walking. No swimwear is allowed on site, and smoking is prohibited on the visitor center grounds and memorials. The tour operates rain or shine, but bad weather may cause site closures or delays.

While the tour offers a well-rounded experience, some reviews note that time at Pearl Harbor can feel rushed. One review mentions that the schedule might not always align perfectly, especially regarding departure times, so travelers should plan their Maui flight accordingly.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour suits history buffs, first-time visitors, and those seeking a comprehensive day trip with minimal planning. The inclusion of flights and tickets makes it particularly appealing for travelers who want a seamless experience. However, those seeking a more leisurely pace or more time at each site might find the schedule somewhat tight.

Final Thoughts on the Arizona Memorial Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour

This 5 to 6-hour tour from Maui offers a powerful combination of WWII history and Hawaiian culture. The well-organized logistics, including airfare and entrance tickets, deliver good value and convenience. The guides’ narration enriches the experience, helping visitors understand each site’s significance.

While some visitors express that the schedule can feel rushed, the depth of historical sites visited and the quality of guided commentary generally make this tour a worthwhile choice for those interested in Hawaii’s past and present. The limited group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the scenic views and respectful atmosphere create a memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to Maui’s Kahului Airport included?
No, transportation to Kahului Airport is not included. The tour only covers the round-trip flights from Kahului to Honolulu.

How long do stops at Pearl Harbor and Honolulu sites last?
The visit to Pearl Harbor lasts about two hours, while the downtown Honolulu stop is approximately 45 minutes. Visits to Iolani Palace and Kawaiahao Church are brief, around 15 minutes each.

What should I bring for this tour?
Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring personal identification. Bags are not allowed inside Pearl Harbor, so consider storage options if needed. Meals are not included, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel or reschedule this tour?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not eligible for refund.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Since the tour involves walking about four city blocks and visiting multiple sites, it may not be ideal for those with limited mobility.