Oahu’s historical tours cut straight to the heart of Hawaiian and American history. The must-see Pearl Harbor History Remembered Tour expertly covers the December 7th attack and its aftermath in 5 hours – it’s the island’s most thorough war memorial experience. I love the Historical Honolulu Bike Tour for its efficient route through downtown landmarks, letting you cover more ground while staying active. For something unique, try the Waikiki History Tour Pub Crawl, which turns historical storytelling into an entertaining evening experience. The Honor Our Heroes Tour offers an intimate look at WWII sites often missed by larger groups. Budget travelers will appreciate the self-guided Honolulu Historic District Smartphone Audio Tour. These are our favorite historical tours, ranked by value and experience.
Key Points
- The Pearl Harbor History Remembered Tour provides a comprehensive 7-hour experience visiting the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri Battleship, and downtown Honolulu.
- The Oahu: Waikiki History Tour Pub Crawl combines a 2-hour bar crawl with educational history lessons and exclusive Hawaiian beers.
- The Historical Honolulu Bike Tour offers a 4-hour excursion covering 13.5 miles of Honolulu’s landmarks and cultural sites.
- The Intimate WWII: Honor Our Heroes Tour provides a small-group experience with visits to major WWII sites and hassle-free transportation.
- The Honolulu Historic District Smartphone Audio Walking Tour allows self-guided exploration of downtown Honolulu at one’s own pace with downloadable content.
Pearl Harbor History Remembered Tour From Ko Olina
The Pearl Harbor History Remembered Tour from Ko Olina offers a comprehensive exploration of one of the most significant historical sites in the United States.
The 7-hour tour includes a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri Battleship, and downtown Honolulu. With knowledgeable guides providing a fully narrated experience, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded at Pearl Harbor.
The tour’s accessibility features, such as wheelchair and stroller access, ensure that it’s inclusive. While some visitors have expressed concerns about feeling rushed, the tour is widely praised for its informative content and value.
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Oahu: Waikiki History Tour Pub Crawl
Although the Oahu: Sips & Secrets of Hawaii Pub Crawl may initially seem like a typical bar-hopping experience, it offers much more than just drinks.
For $45, participants can explore Waikiki’s best bars while learning the hidden history of the Hawaiian Islands. The 2-hour tour includes four drinks, exclusive Hawaiian beers, and a mix of casual bar crawl and educational history lessons.
Guides like Kelly and Maggie bring the experience to life with their informative and animated storytelling.
Whether you opt for the Beer Bundle or Dry Run ticket, this pub crawl provides excellent value and a unique way to discover Oahu’s past.
Read our full review: Oahu: Waikiki History Tour Pub Crawl Review
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History Tour Pub Crawl in Waikiki
Sips & Secrets of Hawaii Pub Crawl offers visitors a unique way to explore Waikiki’s past while enjoying local brews.
This 4-hour tour takes guests to four local bars, where they’ll learn about Hawaii’s hidden history through engaging storytelling by knowledgeable guides.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the experience provides an intimate atmosphere to sip on 4 included beers per person and discover the area’s off-the-beaten-path watering holes.
Praised for its informative and fun-filled nature, the tour boasts a 97% recommendation rate from past travelers.
While some minor issues around group size and communication in loud venues have been noted, the Sips & Secrets of Hawaii Pub Crawl remains a top-rated option for those seeking a refreshing blend of history and local flavors in Oahu.
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Historical Honolulu Bike Tour
For those seeking a captivating exploration of Honolulu’s rich history, the Historical Honolulu Bike Tour offers an unparalleled experience.
This highly-rated 4-hour excursion covers 13.5 miles, showcasing the city’s landmarks, beaches, and cultural gems. Highlights include visits to Kakaako Park for vibrant street art, Chinatown for fresh Hawaiian fruits, and iconic sites like the Iolani Palace and King Kamehameha Statue.
Travelers will also discover filming locations for classic TV shows. With knowledgeable guides, included amenities, and flexible cancellation policies, this tour provides an engaging and memorable way to explore Honolulu’s past.
The 98% recommendation rate and Badge of Excellence further attest to its quality, making it a must-do activity for history buffs visiting Oahu.
Read our full review: Historical Honolulu Bike Tour Review
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Intimate WWII: Honor Our Heroes and Historic Honolulu Tour With Lunch
Immersing visitors in the captivating history of World War II and the vibrant city of Honolulu, the Intimate WWII: Honor Our Heroes and Historic Honolulu Tour with Lunch offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Oahu’s past.
This small-group tour, limited to 11 participants, ensures an intimate experience as it visits major sites, including the Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, Iolani Palace, and Punchbowl National Cemetery.
With hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious included lunch, and all fees covered, this tour provides a comprehensive and seamless way to honor the heroes of WWII and discover Honolulu’s rich history.
The tour’s accessibility, with wheelchair-friendly transportation and options for children and vegetarians, further enhances its appeal.
Read our full review: Intimate WWII: Honor Our Heroes and Historic Honolulu Tour With Lunch Review
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Historic Haleiwa Rainbow Bridge Stand Up Paddle (Anahulu River)
Nestled along the serene Anahulu River, the Historic Haleiwa Rainbow Bridge Stand Up Paddle activity invites visitors to explore the tranquil waterways of Oahu.
Priced from $89 per person, this private tour allows your group to paddle under the historic Rainbow Bridge at a leisurely pace. The meeting point is a short walk from the river, where you’ll find parking and receive assistance from the tour provider.
Suitable for most travelers, this experience includes a stand-up paddleboard and paddle, as well as a convenient pickup service.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility and the opportunity to learn about Oahu’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Historic Haleiwa Rainbow Bridge Stand Up Paddle (Anahulu River) Review
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Honolulu Historic District a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour
The Honolulu Historic District Smartphone Audio Walking Tour invites visitors to explore the rich history and landmarks of downtown Honolulu at their own pace.
This self-guided tour allows users to download the content before their visit, eliminating the need for a data connection during the experience.
The tour features commentary that automatically plays at each point of interest, accompanied by a live GPS map to guide participants.
While attraction tickets aren’t included, the flexible format enables travelers to complete the tour at their convenience.
With affordable pricing and a hassle-free cancellation policy, this tour provides a convenient way to discover Honolulu’s historic landmarks on Oahu.
Read our full review: Honolulu Historic District a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour Review
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GPS Driving Tour From Pearl Harbor Through Historic Honolulu
Set out on a comprehensive GPS-led driving tour that guides you from the hallowed grounds of Pearl Harbor through the historic heart of Honolulu.
This self-guided audio tour allows you to explore at your own pace, with professional narration providing insights along the way.
The tour covers key landmarks, from the Arizona Memorial to the vibrant streets of downtown Honolulu.
Conveniently, the tour ends at the scenic Tantalus Lookout, offering panoramic views – a perfect spot to take in the sunset.
While admissions and food/drinks aren’t included, this private tour offers flexibility for up to 15 participants, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive historical experience on Oahu.
Read our full review: GPS Driving Tour From Pearl Harbor Through Historic Honolulu Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Age Requirements for the Tours?
Most historical tours don’t have strict age requirements, though children under a certain age may need to be accompanied by an adult. It’s best to check with the tour provider for their specific policies and recommendations.
Are the Tours Accessible for Guests With Disabilities?
Many historical tours on Oahu offer accessibility features like wheelchair-friendly paths and audio guides. Guests with disabilities are typically welcome, though it’s best to check with tour operators in advance to ensure their needs can be accommodated.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Guests are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on historical tours, though it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may have restrictions or recommendations to enhance the experience.
Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tours?
Photography and video recording are generally allowed during the tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Most tours welcome visitors to capture the experience, but there may be some restrictions in certain areas or attractions.
What Is the Refund Policy for the Tours in Case of Cancellation?
The refund policy varies by tour operator, but most offer full refunds for cancellations made within 24-48 hours of the scheduled tour. Guests should review the specific policy when booking to understand the terms and conditions.
The Sum Up
Oahu offers a range of historical tours that allow visitors to explore the island’s rich past. From the solemn experience of the Pearl Harbor tour to the lively pub crawl in Waikiki, there’s something for all. These tours provide an engaging way to learn about Hawaii’s history and culture, whether you’re interested in World War II, the Hawaiian monarchy, or the island’s natural heritage.