Planning the Perfect Pearl Harbor Tour: USS Arizona, USS Missouri, and Beyond

Visiting Pearl Harbor is one of the most meaningful experiences in Hawaii. For many travelers, it is more than a sightseeing trip—it is a chance to learn about a defining moment in American history while honoring those who served during World War II. With several historic sites located within the Pearl Harbor area, planning your visit ahead of time can help you make the most of the experience.

From the Visitor Center and USS Arizona Memorial to the USS Missouri Battleship, there is much to see in a single day. At Royal Star Hawaii, we’ve been guiding guests through these historic sites for decades, bringing the stories of Pearl Harbor to life with expert driver guides and comfortable, premium transportation. Whether you are visiting Oahu for the first time or returning to explore more of Hawaii’s history, we are here to help you make every moment count.

Start With the Visitor Center & USS Arizona Memorial

The USS Arizona Memorial is often the centerpiece of any Pearl Harbor tour. Built above the remains of the battleship sunk during the attack on December 7, 1941, the memorial honors the 1,177 crew members who lost their lives. For many of our guests, this is the most emotional and memorable part of the experience.

The visitor center provides exhibits, photographs, and historical information that explain the events leading up to the attack and its impact on the United States. Guests can also watch a documentary before boarding a Navy-operated shuttle boat to the memorial itself. Taking time to explore the exhibits before your scheduled visit helps create a deeper understanding of the site.

When you book your Deluxe Pearl Harbor Tour with us, your admission to the Arizona Memorial is included and acquired in advance or via on-site tickets. 

Explore the Historic USS Missouri Battleship

No Pearl Harbor experience feels complete without stepping aboard the USS Missouri. Known as the “Mighty Mo,” this famous battleship played a major role in World War II and later served during the Korean War and Operation Desert Storm. It is also the site where Japan officially surrendered in 1945, marking the end of World War II.

Walking the decks of the USS Missouri gives visitors a firsthand look at life aboard a battleship. Our guests can explore command areas, crew quarters, massive guns, and historic exhibits. Discover what life at sea was like for 2,700 sailors and see the 66-foot-long guns aboard the 887-foot Missouri. 

Because the USS Missouri is located on Ford Island, transportation arrangements are an important part of planning your day. We handle all access and logistics for our guests, so there’s nothing to worry about—we’ll pick you up in Waikiki, and take care of the rest.

Other Historic Stops on Your Tour

While the USS Arizona Memorial and USS Missouri are the most well-known attractions, there are other important sites you’ll see during your Deluxe Pearl Harbor experience.

Our tour includes window views of the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Hawaii State Capitol District, Downtown Honolulu, and Iolani Palace and the King Kamehameha Statue, which are sites that help our guests understand Hawaii’s broader cultural and historical significance beyond Pearl Harbor.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Pearl Harbor Visit

A little preparation can go a long way toward ensuring a smooth and enjoyable Pearl Harbor tour. Since security rules are strict, visitors should know that bags, purses, backpacks, strollers, or camera cases that offer concealment are not allowed inside the visitor center. Small wallets and your camera may be permitted. Storage facilities are available at the visitor center for a nominal fee.

Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are also important. Our tours often involve several hours of walking outdoors in Hawaii’s warm climate. Wearing sunscreen and sunglasses will help make the day more comfortable.

Because we handle all transportation and scheduling, our guests can skip the stress of navigating Pearl Harbor on their own.

Photography is allowed at most locations, so bring a camera or smartphone. That said, we also encourage our guests to pause and take it all in—Pearl Harbor remains an active military base and a place of remembrance for many families and veterans.

Why Pearl Harbor Continues to Inspire Visitors

Pearl Harbor is more than a historic destination. It is a place where visitors connect with stories of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience. Standing above the USS Arizona Memorial or walking the decks of the USS Missouri creates a powerful connection to the past that many of our guests say they will never forget.

For families, the experience can also serve as a powerful educational opportunity. Children and young adults often gain a deeper appreciation for history by seeing these sites in person. The experience also highlights Hawaii’s role in American history. Many visitors arrive expecting beautiful beaches and tropical scenery, but leave with a stronger understanding of the islands’ cultural and historical importance.

Whether you are interested in military history, honoring veterans, life in Hawaii during wartime, or learning more about one of the most significant events of the 20th century, Pearl Harbor offers an unforgettable experience that continues to leave a lasting impact on travelers from around the world.

Experience the Best of Pearl Harbor With Confidence

Going on Royal Star Hawaii’s Deluxe Pearl Harbor Tour allows you to experience some of the most important historic sites in Hawaii while making the most of your time on Oahu. From the USS Arizona Memorial to the USS Missouri and beyond, each stop offers a meaningful perspective on World War II history and the people who shaped it.

With Royal Star Hawaii, you can explore it all with confidence. We are proud to be TripAdvisor’s #1 Experience in the World for our Grand Circle Island Tour (2023), with more than 23,000 five-star reviews and 70 years of sharing the Spirit of Aloha with guests from around the globe. Our deluxe motorcoaches, professional driver guides, and carefully planned itineraries make your Pearl Harbor tour seamless from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pearl Harbor Tours

How long does it take to tour Pearl Harbor?

We offer three Pearl Harbor tour options to fit your schedule, ranging from half-day to full-day experiences. Our Pearl Harbor Experience, featuring the USS Arizona Memorial, lasts approximately 5 hours. The Deluxe Tour, which includes the USS Arizona Memorial and USS Missouri, is approximately 8 hours. The Ultimate Tour includes the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, and lasts approximately 9 hours.

Is the USS Missouri included in all Pearl Harbor tours?

Not all tours include the USS Missouri, so it is important to review the itinerary before booking. Our Deluxe Pearl Harbor Tour includes access to the battleship.

What should I wear on a Pearl Harbor tour?

We recommend comfortable clothing and walking shoes, since our tours involve outdoor walking and extended time on your feet. Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also ideal for Hawaii’s warm and sunny weather.

Can I bring bags or backpacks into Pearl Harbor?

Large bags, backpacks, and purses that offer concealment are prohibited inside the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center for security reasons. Visitors can use a storage facility on-site or bring only small personal items that meet current security guidelines.

Are Pearl Harbor tours suitable for children and families?

Absolutely. Pearl Harbor tours can be a meaningful experience for visitors of all ages. Many families appreciate the educational exhibits, historic landmarks, and more—which helps children better understand World War II history in a way that is engaging and age-appropriate.

At Royal Star Hawaii, we help visitors experience Oahu’s most important historic destinations with comfortable transportation and professionally guided tours. Our team is dedicated to creating memorable sightseeing experiences while helping guests learn more about Hawaii’s rich history and culture. Whether you are visiting Pearl Harbor for the first time or returning to explore more, we are here to make your journey smooth and unforgettable. Book Now to reserve your Pearl Harbor tour today.