Battleship Missouri and USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor Tour
Overview
Visiting the battleships are the most sought after experience at Pearl Harbor. Take a solemn visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, above the battleship sunk during the Japanese attack and then explore the decks on Missouri where the surrender documents were signed to end it all.
Tour Hightlights
- Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
- USS Arizona Memorial
- Board Battleship Missouri
- The USS Oklahoma Memorial
- National Memorial Cemetery Of The Pacific At Punchbowl
- Historic Downtown Honolulu: The Royal Palace, King Kamehameha statue, Kawaiaha'o Church, and the State Supreme Court
*Tour stop destinations and times may vary for maximum customer enjoyment/experience*
Tour Pick-Up
- Tour Starts: at 6:30am
- Tour Pick-Up at 6:00am - 6:30am
- Tour Bus Map "Pick Up Locations"
Tour Timeline
Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
USS Arizona Memorial
USS Oklahoma
Battleship USS Missouri
National Memorial Cemetery
Iolani Palace
King Kamehameha Statue
State Capitol
Kawaiahao Church
Downtown Honolulu
Tour Features
Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
We take some time at the start of our tour to explore the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. The National Monument, run by the National Park Service, contains a number of exhibits and displays across two museums dedicated to the United States’ participation in World War II, in particular the harrowing day that caused the country to enter history's largest conflict.
Within the museums, there are interactive displays, maps, and ship models, as well as a short documentary that has some incredible, authentic film footage of the attack. The sole reason for this visitor center is to ensure that this era of history is preserved and showcased to all who enter here. The captivating history of the US involvement in World War 2 is a drama of epic proportions.
USS Arizona Memorial
The USS Arizona portion of your visit to Pearl Harbor is a personal experience and a time of quiet reflection. It starts in the theatre with a 23-minute documentary that includes actual historical footage. Then you'll be boarding a Navy boat and crossing the harbor to access the Arizona Memorial, the final resting place of over 1100 sailors and marines who perished during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor over 82 years ago.
This somber but important stage of the tour is where the tragic history of Pearl Harbor reaches from the past to touch your heart in the present. To this day, so-called "black tears", droplets of oil, still leak from the hull of the ship nearly 85 years later. It's a living reminder of what was lost and our brave soldiers' sacrifice, but also of the world that has been rebuilt in the aftermath of that fateful day.
USS Missouri Battleship
After a visit to the memorial that marks the beginning of the United States involvement in the war, the tour takes you to the battleship where the surrender documents that ended that same war with Japan were signed. On the "Mighty Mo", docked near the USS Arizona along battleship row, you can explore a number of decks and go inside to see how sailors and marines lived and worked. Your tickets to board the USS Missouri are included.
The USS Oklahoma Memorial
Our small group tours take a moment to visit the USS Oklahoma Memorial, just outside the gates of Missouri's pier. This often-seen, but rarely visited, small memorial honors the fallen from the Battleship Oklahoma. Like those on the Arizona, they too were lost on Dec. 7th. This is the area where a makeshift hospital was set up, not far from the oil-filled, burning waters that the sailors had to swim through to escape their crippled ship.
National Memorial Cemetery Of The Pacific At Punchbowl
Over 38,0000 people are buried inside Punchbowl Crater, located in Honolulu. Soldiers and sailors from World War 2, the Vietnam and Korean wars, and those Missing in Action, are all honored here. Much like the Pearl Harbor stage of the tour, it can be a bit of a sobering reminder of loss, but this is a truly beautiful area as well. There is a serenity to it, one that is very fitting for what it represents.
We don't stop in the cemetery, but we will drive through for you to view. There will be a stop outside the grounds to take in the beautiful views of Honolulu from an elevated position. You'll take in this historical, lovely city from a vantage point that truly lets you see it all.
Historic Downtown Honolulu
Our final stops of the day are in the historic district of downtown Honolulu. It is home to essential buildings that preserve the story of Hawaii's early years and illustrate how Hawai'i became a kingdom and evolved on the world stage. The Royal Palace, the statue of King Kamehameha The Great, missionary homes, Kawaiahao Church, and the State Supreme Court are all within a block of each other.
Check Availability
What's included, what's not
- Entry-tickets to all the attractions on your tour are included in the price of the tour and will be provided by your guide the day of the tour
- Pick-up and drop-off service from Waikiki area hotels and resorts
- Narration from a local guide, sharing stories and insights during the historic Honolulu portion of tour (Inside Pearl Harbor is self-guided tour)
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Parking fees
- Bag storage fees
Know before you book
- Not allowed: Bags, Swimwear
- Bring government issued photo ID (Passport if from outside the United States)
- Bring cash - If you enjoy your tour tipping your guide in cash is always appreciated
- Use comfortable clothes and covered shoes (no swimwear allowed in Pearl Harbor)
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera
What you can expect
One of the most popular destinations on Oahu is Pearl Harbor. This famous area is home one of the most historic locations on Oahu, known as the Pearl Harbor National Monument. This national park contains the Arizona Memorial, known for the stark white design over the hallowed ground where the USS Arizona lies with over 1100 sailors and marines still interred inside.
After paying our respects at the memorial, we travel to Ford Island to tour the US Battleship Missouri. It was here, on the ship's deck, that the Instrument of Surrender, which ended World War II, was officially signed.
Next, we will drive through downtown Honolulu, filled with interesting and culturally important sites such as Punchbowl Crater, King Kamehameha's statue, Iolani Palace, and so much more! If you're staying on an outer island (Maui, Big Island, or Kaua'i), don't miss an opportunity to visit historic Pearl Harbor and the surrounding landmarks of the island.
Tour Locations
Activity location:
Oahu, Hawaii, USA
The Important Things to Know
For any visitor to Oahu, a trip to Pearl Harbor is a "must-do", and is considered one of the island's highlights. It's where the US became part of the most important event of the 20th century. The gravity of the attack that occurred here stands as a living reminder of the event which spurred the United States' involvement in the largest war in human history. We'll take you to see this location of epic importance, and we won't stop there. When you're done, we'll show you around Honolulu so that you can get the most out of a trip to our incredible city.
Your friendly tour guide will drive you around Honolulu in our very comfortable, climate-controlled Mercedes Sprinter vans. We take you directly to Pearl Harbor, where you will spend around 4.5 hours exploring all of it's attractions.
The first stop is the Visitor Center, where you'll interact with various exhibits at the museums and watch a short but incredible documentary featuring real film footage from the attack itself. After the film, a Navy launch will take you on a short boat ride across the harbor to the Arizona Memorial. You will have about 15 minutes to enjoy the view and pay your respects. Nearby, along Battleship Row, is the famous Battleship Missouri or "Mighty Mo".
It is a floating museum that marks the war's end. Here, on its famous Surrender Deck, the Instrument of Surrender to end the war with Japan was signed as the ship was anchored in Tokyo Bay. You can explore inside "Mighty Mo", including its multiple decks, galleys, rooms, and guns. You can easily get lost inside this massive ship, so having a guide is ideal!
After exploring, we'll head out from the harbor for a great view of the city from Punchbowl. We'll drive through the Cemetery of the Pacific on our way to our final stop in downtown Honolulu to check out the King Kamehameha Statue and other nearby historic buildings.
Then we'll return you to your hotel and condo after a wonderful 7-hour experience. If you are hungry during the tour, food is available for purchase on the dock, or back at the Visitor Center. At the Visitor Center, you will be offered an audio app for use (add-on fee) to hear explanations about the places you'll visit in greater detail. The app is available in 9 languages.
This small-group tour is designed for 25 or fewer passengers and starts with pickup in Waikīkī daily.
- Waikiki Pick Up
- Arrive at the Visitor Center At Pearl Harbor
- Travel across the harbor to visit the Arizona Memorial
- Board the Battleship Missouri to explore its decks
- Leave the harbor area to drive through Punchbowl Crater for an elevated photo opportunity
- Visit and See Historic Downtown Honolulu, including the Kamehameha Statue, Capitol Building, Iolani Palace, and more.
- Depart to the National Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl Crater
- Return to Waikīkī Resorts & Hotels
*Tour Highlights may change or be updated due to route changes in the event of weather or traffic situations beyond our control
- 6:00 AM - Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra (Mahukona St.) Mahukona St, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA
- 6:05 AM - Hilton Vacation club "Modern Hotel" (Hobron Lane "Valet side of Hotel") Honolulu, HI 96814, USA
- 6:10 AM - Hilton Hawaiian Village (Bus Stop on Kalia Rd.) Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 6:15 Am - "Formerly Trump Hotel" Ka La'i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts. "Front of Hotel" 223 Saratoga Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 6:20 AM - Ross Department Store 333 Seaside Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 6:25 Am - Hyatt Regency Hotel "Backside of Hotel" (Koa Ave.) Koa Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 6:30 Am - Twin Fins Trolley Stop, "in Front of Twin Fin Hotel" 2570 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
There are numerous areas at Pearl Harbor to purchase food and drink throughout the day. You will have these opportunities to purchase food or drinks during your tour. We encourage all guests to bring a reusable water bottle and use the filter stations spread throughout the visitor center.
Visitor Center Store
This small convenience store provides basic snacks, prepared sandwiches, microwavable items, ice cream snacks, and drinks.
Submarine Museum Food Trucks
There are a couple of stands set under a large covered area that is perfect for enjoying a quick bite by the harbor. Serving a small variety of standard lunchtime options that are made to order.
Missouri Battleship Pier Stands
Along the pier, opposite the ship, there are some covered areas to take a break and get out of the sun. The offerings across a few vendors are limited to things like hot dogs, pizza, ice cream, and a small variety of snacks and canned or bottled drinks.
Laniakea Restaurant at Aviation Museum
The menu refreshes often with a great selection of lunchtime options but closes mid-afternoon. Many guests enjoy the air-conditioned comfort of the cafe, and it's prepared-to-order meal selection with something for everyone.
- Dress comfortably. High heels, dresses and skirts not recommended. Bug and insect repellant recommended.
- Although there is no formal dress code for visiting the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, we kindly request that visitors dress in a manner that is both appropriate and respectful. Swimsuits are not permitted. Additionally, high heels, skirts, and dresses are discouraged due to the presence of numerous stairs and strong trade winds. While flip-flops and sandals are allowed, we recommend wearing closed-toe shoes as there is considerable walking involved when exploring the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites.
We advise booking your Pearl Harbor tours prior to your arrival in Hawai'i. As Pearl Harbor is the top visitor destination, certain days of the week may see tours sell out. It is advisable to schedule your tour for the first or second full day following your arrival. Many guests tend to wake up early in the morning because of the time difference, ensuring that you are alert by the time your tour commences. Your tour guide will highlight key attractions that should not be overlooked in O'ahu.
We strive to provide inclusive and accessible tours for all our guests and will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate any request. If anyone in your party may need additional services or accommodations (wheelchair, scooter, walker, etc.) please let us know at the time of your booking.
For security reasons, no bags are allowed. Additionally, no iPad cases or clutch wallets are permitted. A wallet must be no larger than a regular-sized cell phone. Bags are not allowed in Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
If needed may be checked and stored for $7.00 per small bag or $10.00 per large bag. It is recommended only essential items such as phones, wallets, and a water bottle or any needed medicines be brought on tour.
Bags that are allowed must be a clear bag approved by the US Navy, like the ones pictured below, and must not exceed dimensions of 1.25" x 2.25" x 5.5".
Frequently Asked Questions
The activity is located in Honolulu, Hawaii, United States.
No specific age requirements are mentioned; the activity is suitable for all ages.
The tour includes private transportation in a clean and luxurious vehicle.
No special equipment is required; tickets for the boat ride and access to the USS Arizona and USS Missouri are included.
TOUR CANCELLATIONS 48 hours notice is required to be eligible for a full refund. Guests giving less than 48 hours notice and no-shows may be charged full price without exception.
TOUR CHANGES 48 hours notice is required to request a tour change of date or time. All rebookings are subject to availability and must not conflict with minimum capacity requirements listed below.
TOUR MINIMUMS A combined minimum of 2 guests is required for a tour to operate. Should a tour not meet the tour minimum, customers will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. While advanced notice will be provided when possible, tour cancellations may be up until 1-hour before the activity start time.
INCLEMENT WEATHER OR COMPANY CLOSURES Trips will run rain or shine. All trips are subject to change or be canceled without notice due to the weather or other unforeseen circumstance. The company will make the final decision and may cancel at any time should the weather conditions be deemed unsafe or unfit to complete the activity. Customers will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund in the case of any operator cancellation. While advanced notice will be provided when possible, tour cancellations may occur up until the activity start time.shows.
GO OAHU CARDHOLDERS: In the event the GoCard number(s) provided cannot be validated on the day of the tour - the credit card on file will automatically be charged the full price of the tour. Go Tours Hawaii is not responsible for any GoCard issues or restrictions. All guests are subject to any terms and conditions included in their GoCard purchase.
The tour includes visits to the USS Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, Bowfin Submarine | Silent Service Museum, Battleship Missouri, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.