Oahu: Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour

Explore Pearl Harbor and Honolulu in a 5-Hour Guided Tour for $64

This Oahu tour from Fly Shuttle Tours offers a well-rounded experience of Pearl Harbor and Honolulu, all packed into just five hours. For $64 per person, travelers gain access to the USS Arizona Memorial, a detailed visit to the Pearl Harbor Visitor’s Center, and a scenic tour of historic Honolulu. The tour begins early morning with convenient pickup locations around Waikiki, making it easy to join without stress. The professional, narrated guide shares insights into Hawaiian history and local life, enhancing each stop with local knowledge and stories.

While the timing is tight, this tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive look at the area without dedicating an entire day. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so bringing cash and comfortable shoes is recommended. The accessibility for wheelchairs is available, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience. This tour is particularly suited for first-time visitors eager to see the key highlights of Pearl Harbor and Honolulu’s main sights in a concise format.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Complete Pearl Harbor experience with admission to the Arizona Memorial and WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument.
• Includes scenic city highlights such as Chinatown, Iolani Palace, and the State Capitol.
• Professional narrated tour with insider stories about Hawaiian history and culture.
• Convenient round-trip transportation from select Waikiki locations.
• Stops for photo opportunities at the King Kamehameha Statue and other historic sites.
• Tour duration of 5 hours offers a solid overview without taking up a full day.

Starting the Day at Waikiki for a Smooth Pickup

The tour kicks off early, with pickups starting at 6:30 am from Ala Moana Hotel and nearby hotels around Waikiki. The bus is comfortable and air-conditioned, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The early start allows visitors to beat the larger crowds at Pearl Harbor and enjoy a more leisurely experience at the sites. The pickup points are well-organized, and the schedule is designed to maximize your time at each stop.

Visiting the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and USS Arizona Memorial

The core of this tour revolves around the visit to Pearl Harbor. You get admission to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, which includes two museums at the USS Arizona Memorial site. A narrated boat ride takes you across Pearl Harbor to the Arizona Memorial, where you can observe the ship remaining submerged since 1941. The museum exhibits and documentary film provide context for the attack that changed history.

The USS Arizona Memorial itself is a poignant site, and the tour includes viewing the battleship Missouri from afar. Due to the boat dock damage mentioned in some reviews, guests should be aware that boat trips can sometimes be limited, but the guided tour ensures you still get meaningful insights even if the boat ride is unavailable.

Exploring Honolulu’s Historic Downtown and Capitol District

After Pearl Harbor, the tour continues into Honolulu, where the guide points out prominent landmarks like Washington Place, the State Capitol, and Kawaiahao Church. Traveling through Historic Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown offers a glimpse of the city's vibrant history and architecture, with plenty of photo stops along the way.

A particularly notable stop is at the King Kamehameha Statue, which is a popular spot for photos. The guide shares stories about Kamehameha I, the king credited with unifying the Hawaiian Islands. You also get views of the Iolani Palace and the Mission Houses Museums, enriching your understanding of Honolulu’s royal and colonial past.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the National Cemetery of the Pacific in Punchbowl Crater

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, situated in Punchbowl Crater. The beautifully maintained site offers sweeping views of Honolulu below and a chance to pay respects at the graves of fallen soldiers. The guide shares insights into the significance of the cemetery and its history, adding depth to this serene stop.

While you're exploring Oahu, here are other experiences we've looked into

• 2-Hour Oahu Whale Watch From Ala Wai Harbor, Waikiki
• 2-Hour Whale Watching From Oahu
• 8-Line Zipline Adventure on Oahus North Shore
• 1/2 Circle Island & North Shore Fun With the Surf Bus
• Beginner Scuba Experience With Video Package in Honolulu
• BYOB Sunset Cruise off the Waikiki Coast

Insider Knowledge and Tour Guide Expertise

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the knowledgeable, engaging guide. Reviews consistently highlight guides like Tim and Chris for their fun, informative storytelling. They provide interesting facts about Hawaiian history, local buildings, plants, and the culture of living in Hawaii. The guides’ ability to share insider stories makes the experience more meaningful and personal.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour includes luxury round-trip transportation, making the logistics hassle-free. The pickup locations are spread across Waikiki, including Ala Moana Hotel, Grand Islander Bus Depot, Hale Koa Hotel, and several others, with pickups starting early in the morning. The duration of five hours means the tour is paced to cover all key sites without feeling rushed, although some reviews note that time at Pearl Harbor can be limited.

Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and cash for souvenirs or optional expenses. The tour does not include food or drinks, so planning accordingly is wise. For those with wheelchairs, the tour offers accessibility, ensuring inclusivity.

The Experience of the Pearl Harbor Boat Ride

A significant part of the tour involves a narrated boat ride in Pearl Harbor that takes you to the USS Arizona Memorial. This part of the experience is highly valued for its historical significance and serene views. However, some reviews mention that the boat dock may be damaged, which can slightly limit access. Despite this, the tour ensures you receive relevant information and respectful viewing opportunities.

Highlights of Honolulu City Landmarks

Travelers get fantastic views of several historic landmarks, including Kawaiahao Church, Iolani Palace, and Washington Place. The photo stop at the King Kamehameha Statue offers a memorable scene perfect for pictures. The drive-through sections provide a quick but informative overview of Honolulu’s rich architectural and cultural history.

Reflecting on the Tour’s Value and Limitations

With a price of $64, this tour offers excellent value given the breadth of sites covered and the inclusion of admission to Pearl Harbor. The professional narration and well-organized logistics add to the overall appeal. That said, the limited time at certain sites, especially at Pearl Harbor, might leave some feeling they could spend more time exploring. Also, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own or buy some during stops if needed.

The reviews highlight guide quality as a key strength, with many describing their guides as fun, knowledgeable, and engaging. The tour’s early start and short duration make it a good choice for those who want a rundown without dedicating a full day.

Pearl Harbor and Honolulu Tour: Who Will Enjoy It Most

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a concise, informative introduction to Pearl Harbor and Honolulu’s highlights. It suits those who prefer guided experiences with expert narration and organized logistics. Visitors who value history, culture, and scenic views will find this tour both educational and memorable.

Hawaii enthusiasts will appreciate the depth of storytelling, and travelers on a tight schedule will benefit from the efficient itinerary. However, those hoping for more time at specific sites or food inclusions should consider that this tour emphasizes key highlights within a shorter timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $64 fee covers admission to Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona Memorial, the National Cemetery of the Pacific, city sightseeing, and round-trip transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 5 hours, starting early in the morning with pickups around 6:30 am.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so travelers should bring cash and plan accordingly.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What are the main highlights of the city tour?
Highlights include Chinatown, Iolani Palace, Washington Place, the State Capitol, and a photo stop at the King Kamehameha Statue.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and cash for souvenirs or optional expenses.

What is the guide’s style?
Guests praise guides like Tim and Chris for being engaging, knowledgeable, and fun-full of stories.

Is the boat ride to the Arizona Memorial included?
Yes, the narrated boat ride is part of the tour, offering serene views and a respectful experience at the memorial site.

Will I see the Battleship Missouri?
Yes, the tour includes a view of the Battleship Missouri from a distance.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour’s accessible logistics and short duration make it suitable for families with children.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, with full flexibility and no upfront payment required until booking.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby