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, and further learn about the roles of Pearl Harbor and the military in 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 in an efficient manner.
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 two tours. If you're interested in the full ~5 hour 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.
Duration | 6-7.5 hours, with 5 hours at Pearl Harbor |
10 hours, with 2 hours at Pearl Harbor |
---|---|---|
Pick-up Time | ~9 am |
~7 am |
Pearl Harbor Highlights | Boat ride to USS Arizona Memorial |
Boat ride to USS Arizona Memorial (when possible) and/or various exhibits near visitor center |
Non-Pearl Harbor Highlights | National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl) (private tours only) |
~25 sites including North Shore beaches, Dole Pineapple Plantation, Pali Lookout, Valley of the Temples, Punchbowl, and more |
Military Veteran Guide | Yes |
No |
Physical Exertion | In-depth tour mostly on one's feet for many hours / miles Pearl Harbor 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, much of it on a van circling the island 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 |
Private Tour Price | $1,599+ |
$1,699+ |
More Details | More Details |