Pearl Harbor is a must-see on a visit to Oahu. Take in the solemn and stirring site of the critical event that thrust the U.S. into World War II and changed the course of history. Gain deeper insights into Pearl Harbor's role and the lasting impact of the military on Hawaii's history. On a private or small group tour, you'll receive round-trip transportation from your lodging, extensive historical and military context from your own local guide (many of them veterans), expedited check-in without having to worry about getting there early enough to secure limited tickets yourself, and an optimized itinerary to maximize your experience.
Lonely Planet guidebook:
Pearl Harbor has a resonance for all Americans. The site is accessible, evocative, and moving. It’s the top site for visitors to Hawaii.
Fodor's guidebook:
Pearl Harbor: Top Reasons to Go to Oahu. A sobering, don’t miss sight.
Same-day tickets can disappear within an hour [if not part of tour]
Moon guidebook:
The Pearl Harbor Historic Sites are a must-see to grasp.
On a busy day, be prepared to wait several hours [if not part of tour]
Oahu Revealed guidebook:
The USS Arizona Memorial is the single most popular visitor attraction on Oahu and a must-do for good reason.
Parking can be difficult at peak times.
The below table outlines the key differences between our tours. If you're interested in the full experience at Pearl Harbor and also circling the island with a tour, you could do the standalone Pearl Harbor Tour (Activity 1) on one day and the standalone Circle Island Tour on a separate day. All tours are with the same highly rated veteran-owned small business run by a Hawaiian family. Please visit the individual pages for all the details, to check availability, and to book.
Activity 1Full Pearl Harbor Experience |
Activity 2Circle Island & Pearl Harbor |
Activity 3Pearl Harbor & Honolulu City Tour |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour Duration | 6-7.5 hours, with 5 hours at Pearl Harbor |
10 hours, with 2 hours at Pearl Harbor |
5-6 hours, with 2 hours at Pearl Harbor |
| Pickup & Dropoff Times | 8:30-9:15 am |
6:30-7:15 am |
9-9:45 am |
| Pearl Harbor Highlights | Visitor Center Boat ride to USS Arizona Memorial Tour inside of USS Bowfin Submarine Exploring USS Missouri battleship |
Visitor Center Boat ride to USS Arizona Memorial |
Visitor Center Boat ride to USS Arizona Memorial |
| Non-Pearl Harbor Highlights | National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl) (private tours only) |
Sites around the island including North Shore beaches and town of Haleiwa, Dole Pineapple Plantation, Pali Lookout, Punchbowl, and more |
National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl), |
| Military Veteran Guide | Yes |
Not usually |
Not usually |
| Physical Exertion | In-depth tour mostly on one's feet for many hours Includes exploring a submarine and battleship via some ladders and tight spaces Note: those with some physical limitations can split with the tour as needed, or take a private tour with more personalization / flexibility |
Relatively easy and accessible sightseeing tour Pearl Harbor portion focuses on Visitor Center and Arizona Memorial, the easiest and most visited areas |
Relatively easy and accessible sightseeing tour Pearl Harbor portion focuses on Visitor Center and Arizona Memorial, the easiest and most visited areas |
| Shared Tour Price | $226/age 13+ |
$199-$219/person |
$139/age 13+ |
| Private Tour Price | $1,599+ |
$1,699+ |
$999+ |
| More Details | More Details | More Details |
* January Special: Enter code phtour12 in the TravelShack ID field at checkout for a $199/adult discounted price for shared tours January 3-31, 2025.