The Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum offers a fascinating window into the underwater world of WWII submarines, making it a must-visit for military history enthusiasts. While the museum itself provides an up-close look at historic submarines and their stories, the tours around Pearl Harbor and Honolulu elevate the experience, offering deeper insights and memorable adventures. Some tours dive into the broader WWII context, like the Complete Pearl Harbor Experience, which gets you to all four major memorials and museums. Others, such as the Half Day Private Pearl Harbor Tour, focus on personalized, in-depth exploration of the historic site. For those interested in cultural history, the Honolulu Heritage Walk offers a quieter, more local perspective. And if you’re arriving at Honolulu Airport, the Pearl Harbor Passport tour provides a convenient way to see the key sites during a full day of sightseeing.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of Pearl Harbor tours suited for different interests and schedules. From comprehensive full-day experiences to intimate private walks, each offers a unique way to connect with Hawaii’s WWII history and local culture. For more detail, review each option below.
1. From Waikiki: Complete Pearl Harbor Experience Tour
At number one, this Complete Pearl Harbor Experience is a full-day tour that covers all four major memorials and museums at Pearl Harbor. For around $183, you get a thorough understanding of the attack on December 7, 1941, and its aftermath. The tour includes visits to the USS Arizona Memorial, which is a poignant tribute to the sailors who lost their lives, and the historic USS Missouri, where Japan’s surrender marked the end of WWII. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center offers engaging exhibits, and the Bowfin Submarine Museum provides a chance to explore a WWII submarine firsthand. The tour also features documentary screenings that deepen your understanding of this pivotal event.
This tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive experience and are comfortable spending about nine hours on the road. The guide’s storytelling makes complex WWII history accessible, and the included films add context. Reviewers find it well-organized and informative, though some note it can be a long day, especially in summer heat.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs who want an all-in-one tour with rich storytelling and a full overview of Pearl Harbor’s significance.
$183 per person
2. From Maui: Complete Pearl Harbor Experience Tour
Slightly more costly at $500 per person, this Pearl Harbor tour from Maui offers the same extensive itinerary as the Waikiki version, but with the added adventure of arriving from another island. It includes visits to the USS Arizona, USS Missouri, Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, and Bowfin Submarine—all wrapped into a nine-hour day.
What makes this tour extraordinary is its appeal to travelers already in Maui who don’t want to miss the historic sites. The logistics are handled smoothly, with transportation and tickets included. Although reviews are not specified, the value here lies in combining a tropical getaway with a deep dive into WWII history. Expect a guided narrative that takes you from the attack to the surrender, with plenty of time for photos and reflection.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers based in Maui, combining island leisure with a full historical immersion.
$500 per person
3. Half Day Private Pearl Harbor Tour
For those seeking a more intimate and flexible experience, the Half Day Private Pearl Harbor Tour provides a personalized look at the historic site. Priced at $600 for up to two people, it lasts about five hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a more relaxed pace.
This tour emphasizes learning about the attack and honoring the heroes of WWII. It includes a self-guided audio tour of a WWII submarine—a highlight for many visitors—and a short documentary that frames the events leading up to America’s entry into the war. The tour concludes at the USS Arizona Memorial, giving you a chance for quiet reflection. The private format allows for customizing the experience, asking specific questions, or focusing on personal interests.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and the chance to avoid crowded group tours. The main drawback is that it’s shorter and less comprehensive than all-day options, but that’s perfect if you’re after a focused, personal experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups who want an in-depth, tailored visit without the rush.
$600 per group up to 2
4. Honolulu Heritage: A Private Walk Through History
If you’re interested in exploring Honolulu’s local history and culture, this Private Walk Through Honolulu offers a two-hour stroll from Iolani Palace to 417 S King St. For $1,047 for up to four people, it’s a more expensive but deeply enriching experience.
Your guide, a local expert, shares stories about the Royal Hawaiian Monarchy, missionary influence, and architectural landmarks. You’ll visit historic churches and educational institutions that shaped the city’s identity. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a cultural perspective that complements their WWII history visits and provides a broader understanding of Hawaii’s social fabric.
While not focused solely on Pearl Harbor, this tour offers a different lens—more about the local story than the military one. Reviewers praise the personalized attention and insider knowledge.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in Hawaiian history beyond the war, seeking a private, intimate cultural walk.
$1,047 per group up to 4
5. Pearl Harbor Passport Tour from HNL Airport
For a convenient, full-day experience, the Pearl Harbor Passport costs $263 per person and includes visits to the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, and USS Missouri. This tour is perfect for travelers arriving or departing from Honolulu Airport, allowing you to see the highlights without a full-day commitment.
The tour lasts about nine hours, with enough time to explore the museums and pay respects at the memorial. It’s a practical choice if you want a well-rounded history experience without the need for overnight arrangements. The inclusion of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum adds an extra layer for aviation enthusiasts.
Reviewers note that this tour strikes a good balance between depth and convenience. It’s especially suited for those on a tight schedule or arriving in Honolulu and wanting to maximize their time.
Bottom Line: An efficient, value-packed option for visitors with limited time but a strong interest in WWII history.
$263 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Selecting the best tour depends on your budget, schedule, and interest level. If you desire a comprehensive, full-day experience that covers all major sites, the from Waikiki or from Maui tours are your best bets. For more personal attention and a flexible pace, consider the Half Day Private Pearl Harbor Tour. Those short on time but eager to see the highlights might prefer the Pearl Harbor Passport from HNL.
For travelers interested in Hawaiian culture and history beyond WWII, the Honolulu Heritage walk offers a deeper culture. Remember to book early, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and time.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose a full-day, all-in tour or a private walk tailored to your interests, each option at the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum area provides an authentic way to connect with Hawaii’s WWII history and local culture. For history lovers wanting to cover all bases, the Complete Pearl Harbor Experience offers unmatched depth, while the Half Day Private Pearl Harbor Tour is perfect for a more relaxed, personalized visit.
If your schedule is tight, the Pearl Harbor Passport allows you to see the main sites efficiently. For a cultural complement, the Honolulu Heritage walk provides a peaceful, insightful stroll through the city’s past.
Whatever your interests or timeframe, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these meaningful experiences.