Pearl Harbor: Full Day Tour with Arizona & Missouri Memorials

Summary

Walk historic decks at Pearl Harbor, hear stories that linger long after

You’ll stand above sunken history at the USS Arizona Memorial, squeeze through submarine corridors at Pearl Harbor, and walk across Battleship Missouri’s deck where WWII ended. With stories from your local guide and glimpses of Honolulu’s royal past, this full day tour leaves you with more questions than answers — in a good way.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the hush — even with buses arriving and families chatting, there’s this quiet at Pearl Harbor that sort of settles into your bones. Our guide, Kaleo, handed out tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial and told us a story about his grandfather working in the shipyards. I could smell sunscreen and coffee from the visitor center café, but mostly it was just that salty air and a kind of respectful silence. We took the boat out to the memorial and I’ll admit, seeing those oil droplets still rising from below — it got to me more than I expected.

Afterwards, we wandered through the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum. The Bowfin submarine felt cramped and metallic; my knees knocked against something every time I turned. Kaleo pointed out old photos of sailors who looked barely older than my nephew. There was a moment when a veteran in our group saluted quietly — nobody said anything, but you could feel everyone pause. Lunch was quick (snacks at the gift shop if you want), then we headed to the Battleship Missouri Memorial. Walking those decks where WWII officially ended… honestly, it’s hard to wrap your head around all that history packed into one spot.

The last stop was the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum — propellers overhead, faded paint on old planes, kids pressing their faces to glass cases. On our way back through Honolulu, Kaleo drove us past ʻIolani Palace and pointed out where Hawaiian royalty once lived. By then the sun was slanting low and people were quiet in the van; maybe just tired or maybe thinking about everything we’d seen. I still think about those tiny rainbows in the oil on the water — weird what sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Pearl Harbor and Historic Honolulu

• Visit USS Arizona Memorial
• Explore Battleship Missouri Memorial
• Tour USS Bowfin Memorial and Museum
• Visit Pacific Aviation Museum and hangars
• Drive through National Cemetery of the Pacific
• Tour Historic Honolulu and ʻIolani Palace

Top questions

How long is the Pearl Harbor full day tour?

The tour lasts a full day, including all main sites and return transport.

Does this tour include hotel pickup in Honolulu?

Yes, hotel or port pickup and drop-off are included.

Are entry fees for USS Arizona Memorial included?

Yes, admission to USS Arizona Memorial is provided as part of your tour.

Is lunch included on this Pearl Harbor tour?

No formal lunch is included; snacks are available for purchase at visitor centers.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible throughout the day trip.

Can infants join this Pearl Harbor day trip?

Infants can join; they must sit on an adult’s lap or use a stroller/pram.

What should I wear for this tour?

Dress comfortably; shirts and shoes are required on USS Arizona Memorial. No swimsuits or high heels recommended.

What happens if shuttle operations to USS Arizona are suspended?

If Navy shuttles are suspended unexpectedly, you'll still visit exhibits, film screenings, visitor center and park monuments.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off in Honolulu, all entry fees for sites like USS Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri Memorial, plus guidance from a knowledgeable local throughout each stop before returning in the evening.