Stars and Stripes Tour: Pearl Harbor and Battleship Missouri

A practical yet meaningful way to explore some of Hawaii’s most iconic WWII memorials, the Stars and Stripes Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into American history. For $149 per person, you get around 7 hours of visiting three significant landmarks: the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, plus a tour of downtown Honolulu. The tour includes hotel pickup from selected hotels and transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, making it an easy, hassle-free way to see these historic sites.

What we especially like about this tour is that it combines both the emotional depth of the Pearl Harbor memorials with the opportunity to walk the decks of the mighty USS Missouri—where Japan formally surrendered—offering a tangible connection to history. The inclusion of guided tours and audio guides enhances understanding, and the fact that all entrance fees are included means no surprises at the gate.

However, a key consideration is that the boat shuttle to the USS Arizona can sell out or be delayed due to weather or capacity limits, which might affect your experience. It’s also worth noting that the pickup point in a large hotel like the Hyatt Regency has been a source of confusion, so careful planning is recommended.

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, families, or anyone interested in the pivotal moments of WWII preserved at Pearl Harbor. If you prefer a comprehensive yet straightforward visit with guided commentary, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Includes access to three major WWII sites with all fees covered.
• Comfortable transportation and hotel pickup simplify logistics.
• Audio guides available in multiple languages add educational value.
• Capacity and weather may impact the USS Arizona shuttle experience.
• Timing allows for a thorough visit (about 7 hours), but some reviews note rushing through certain attractions.
• No lunch included, so plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand.

A Detailed Look at the Stars and Stripes Tour Experience

Visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial

The tour kicks off with a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, which is undoubtedly the emotional centerpiece. It includes a short film that sets the scene about the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, and the tragic loss of the battleship and over 1,000 sailors. Following that, you board a navy shuttle boat—an aspect that’s both exciting and crucial, as it transports visitors directly over the sunken ship. Be prepared for capacity limits; during busy times, tickets for the shuttle can sell out or be affected by weather, which some travelers have noted as a frustration (“tickets sell out or weather prohibits the shuttle from operating” was mentioned in the tour information).

Once at the memorial, you’ll have about an hour and 25 minutes to explore the site, view the exhibits, and pay respects. The audio tour available here offers insights in multiple languages, making it accessible for international visitors. Many reviews highlight that this part of the tour is moving and well-organized, though some mention that “waiting over 20 minutes twice for late return people cut into our time,” which suggests that punctuality is crucial if you want to maximize your experience.

Visiting the Battleship Missouri

Next, you’ll head over to the USS Missouri. The guided tour here is about 2.5 hours long and takes you through the decks of this historic battleship, famous for accepting Japan’s surrender in World War II. Walking in the footsteps of General MacArthur and exploring the ship’s most famous missions makes history come alive in a way that pictures or movies can’t deliver. Several reviewers appreciated the guided aspect, mentioning that it was “a guided tour” which added context and depth to their visit.

Memorials and Other Sites in Honolulu

The tour also includes a drive through Honolulu’s memorial and historic sites. Highlights include the Korean & Vietnam War Memorials, the Eternal Flame, the Liberty Bell, and the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States. The Honolulu Hale, the city hall and historic building, and the State Capitol are also part of the tour. Many visitors find this part of the tour offers a broader understanding of Hawaii’s history and its connections to national service and independence. One reviewer noted that the grounds are lined with memorials honoring veterans, which adds a somber and respectful tone to the day.

Tour Logistics and Practicalities

Transportation is by air-conditioned coach or minivan, which makes long days more comfortable, especially in the humid Hawaiian climate. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at designated hotels, streamlining the experience. It’s important to note that bags and purses are not allowed at the Pearl Harbor sites, and bags must be left behind or stored elsewhere—a security measure that may surprise some travelers, so packing light is advisable.

The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, which is enough time to see everything without feeling overly rushed, though some reviews mention feeling pressured to move quickly through exhibits (“we did not get to see the museum and rushed through other stuff”). If you’re someone who appreciates a leisurely pace, be aware that some parts may feel a bit hurried.

Cost-wise, at $149, the tour offers good value considering it covers multiple sites and all admissions. The guided tours and audio guides enrich the experience, especially for those unfamiliar with Hawaiian or WWII history. Still, you should plan for additional expenses if you want to buy souvenirs or eat lunch, as it isn’t included.

What We Love About This Tour

One of the biggest draws is that it combines emotional and educational sites into one day—something that helps visitors truly grasp the significance of Pearl Harbor in world history. The guided tours make the stories more accessible and memorable, and the hotels included in the pickup mean you avoid confusing navigation or long walks from distant meeting points.

The accessibility of the site, with multilingual audio guides and clear signage, means that international travelers can engage meaningfully with the history. Plus, visiting on a guided tour can help you avoid long lines, which are common at Pearl Harbor, especially during peak times.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour is comprehensive, some visitors have expressed frustration over capacity limits for the shuttle boat, and the need to arrive early or be prepared for potential delays. Also, the no-bag policy can be inconvenient, especially if you’re not forewarned, so plan to bring only essentials.

The shorter time allocated at some sites might leave visitors wishing for more, especially at Pearl Harbor’s museums. If you’re a history buff or planning a longer trip, consider supplementing this tour with additional site visits later.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This is an excellent option for travelers who want a well-organized, educational overview of Pearl Harbor and Honolulu’s historic sites without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s particularly suited for those who value guided commentary, want all-access tickets, and prefer transportation included. Families with older children and international visitors will appreciate the multi-lingual audio guides and comprehensive itinerary.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pacing or have specific interests in the museums, you might consider extra time or alternative tours that allow for a more in-depth exploration.

Final Thoughts

The Stars and Stripes Tour offers a balanced, practical way to experience some of Hawaii’s most important WWII landmarks. For $149, you get a lot of value—expert guides, all entrance fees, and the convenience of hotel pickup—all wrapped in a respectful, educational experience.

This tour suits those eager to grasp the importance of Pearl Harbor in American history, especially if limited time or mobility is a concern. While there are some potential hiccups—delays, weather issues, or the no-bag policy—these are manageable with a little prep. Overall, it’s a meaningful way to connect with the past and reflect on the sacrifices made, within a day packed with history and remembrance.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour? Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at selected hotels, making it easier to start and end your day comfortably.

What sites are included in the tour? You’ll visit the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and several memorials in Honolulu, such as the Korean and Vietnam War Memorials, and the Honolulu Hale.

Are all entry fees included? Yes, all entrance fees, including the Pearl Harbor sites and museums, are covered in the ticket price.

What should I bring on the tour? Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. It’s also wise to bring a light jacket in case of rain and a small bag for essentials (not allowed at Pearl Harbor sites).

Is there a meal included? No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand.

What happens if the shuttle boat to the USS Arizona is full or weather delays? Capacity for the boat is limited, and weather can also impact the shuttle’s operation, which could affect your visit to the memorial.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 7 hours, with enough time at each site to explore and learn.

Is the tour accessible? The tour is ADA accessible, but reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance due to limited availability.

Can I bring a camera? Cameras are permitted, but no camera bags are allowed at Pearl Harbor or on the shuttle boat.

How far in advance should I book? The tour is typically booked about 92 days ahead, so early planning ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.