GPS Driving Tour From Pearl Harbor Through Historic Honolulu

Experience a captivating GPS-guided driving tour that takes you on a journey through Pearl Harbor and the historic heart of Honolulu. Explore iconic landmarks, uncover Hawaii’s rich royal heritage, and learn about the islands’ cultural legacies. From the moving memorials at Pearl Harbor to the regal splendor of Iolani Palace, this self-guided tour promises to reveal the depth and diversity of Hawaii’s past. With turn-by-turn audio narration and stunning scenic viewpoints, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the islands’ history and the events that have shaped its present.

Key Points

• Self-guided GPS-led audio tour explores Pearl Harbor and Honolulu’s historic landmarks, including the USS Arizona Memorial, Iolani Palace, and Punchbowl Crater.

• Tour provides insights into Hawaii’s royal history, the impact of American Protestant missionaries, and the significance of the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack.

• Scenic route showcases iconic Honolulu attractions, such as the King Kamehameha statue, Mission Houses Museum, and panoramic viewpoints from Tantalus Lookout.

• Accessible for wheelchair and stroller users, with a professional local guide offering turn-by-turn instructions through the VoiceMap mobile application.

• Non-refundable tour available from September 2022 to June 2025, catering to small groups of up to 15 participants.

Exploring Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Visitors to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial begin their tour at the Visitor Center, where they can purchase tickets and explore the exhibits on the history of the 1941 attack.

They’ll then board a shuttle to the USS Arizona Memorial, where they can pay their respects to the over 1,100 sailors and Marines who lost their lives on that fateful day.

The tour continues with a visit to the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, offering a glimpse into the lives of the submariners who played a crucial role in the war.

As they explore these historic sites, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the events that changed the course of history.

Driving Through Downtown Honolulu

Departing the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, the driving tour whisks visitors through the heart of Honolulu’s historic district.

The route takes you past iconic landmarks like Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on American soil. You’ll also see the historic Hawaii State Capitol building, which blends modern and traditional Hawaiian architectural elements.

As you navigate the bustling streets, the audio guide provides insights into the city’s rich history and cultural significance.

The tour culminates at the Puu Ualakaa State Park, offering panoramic views of Honolulu and the chance to witness a breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Historic Iolani Palace and King Kamehameha Statue

As the tour proceeds through downtown Honolulu, it’ll lead visitors past the iconic Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on American soil.

This grand 19th-century building served as the residence of Hawaiian monarchs until the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1893. Today, it stands as a testament to Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage, housing a museum that showcases the islands’ royal history.

Just across the street, the towering statue of King Kamehameha I commands attention, commemorating the unification of the Hawaiian Islands under his rule in the early 19th century.

These two historical landmarks offer a glimpse into Hawaii’s past, allowing visitors to enjoy the country’s regal legacy.

Mission Houses Museum and Kawaiahao Church

Next, the tour leads visitors to the Mission Houses Museum, an intriguing complex that offers insights into the arrival of American Protestant missionaries in the 1820s.

The museum showcases the original homes of these early missionaries, providing a glimpse into their daily lives and the cultural exchange that occurred.

Adjacent to the museum stands Kawaiahao Church, a historic landmark built in the 1830s using coral blocks.

This ornate gothic-style church, known as the "Westminster Abbey of Hawaii", played a significant role in the islands’ religious and political history.

Exploring these captivating sites allows travelers to delve deeper into Honolulu’s rich heritage.

King Kamehameha V Post Office Building

From the historic Kawaiahao Church, visitors typically head northeast on South King Street, where they soon arrive at the stately King Kamehameha V Post Office Building.

Completed in 1871, this grand structure stands as a testament to Hawaii’s rich history. Its neoclassical architecture, featuring columns and a central pediment, reflects the island nation’s ties to the United States.

Today, the building serves as the main post office for downtown Honolulu, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s storied past.

As they explore the building’s exterior, travelers can imagine the bustling activity that once filled its halls, a reminder of Oahu’s enduring role as a center of commerce and community.

Scenic Punchbowl Crater and National Cemetery

Leaving the historic post office behind, visitors head up the winding roads towards the Punchbowl Crater. This iconic geological feature was formed by a volcanic eruption over 75,000 years ago.

Atop the crater’s rim, the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific rests, honoring America’s fallen heroes. Visitors can:

1. Take in the sweeping views of Honolulu below.
2. Explore the cemetery’s memorials and learn about its history.
3. Observe the Punchbowl’s distinct shape and volcanic origins.
4. Reflect on the solemn significance of this hallowed ground.

The serene and scenic Punchbowl provides a poignant contrast to the bustling city below, inviting travelers to pause and contemplate Hawaii’s rich history and the sacrifices of those who served.

Tantalus Lookout and Scenic Viewpoints

The driving tour now climbs up the winding roads of Tantalus, leading visitors to the Tantalus Lookout in Puu Ualakaa State Park.

At the summit, stunning panoramic views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the Pacific Ocean unfold. The lookout offers a chance to admire the lush, tropical greenery and capture breathtaking sunset photos.

After exploring the scenic viewpoints, the tour continues towards the Nutridge neighborhood, showcasing more picturesque sights along the way.

Travelers can expect to reach the end of the GPS-guided tour at the Tantalus Lookout, providing a fitting finale to the historic journey through Honolulu.

Tour Logistics and Additional Information

Travelers can redeem the tour code on the VoiceMap mobile application to access the self-guided GPS-led audio tour. The tour, led by a professional local guide, provides turn-by-turn instructions and can be timed to end at sunset for optimal views.

While non-refundable, the tour accommodates wheelchair and stroller users, as well as service animals. Guests can expect:

1. Confirmation received at booking.
2. Group size up to 15 people.
3. Tour availability from September 5, 2022 to June 28, 2025.
4. Requirement to play the first audio track entirely before departing the parking lot.

This tour offers a convenient, GPS-guided exploration of Pearl Harbor and historic Honolulu at an affordable price point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Stop the Tour and Resume It Later?

Yes, users can pause and resume the tour later. The self-guided audio tour allows flexibility, letting travelers stop and start the experience as needed throughout their journey.

Is the App Available Offline for the Tour?

The tour’s VoiceMap mobile app allows users to download the audio content for offline use. This way, they can complete the self-guided driving tour without relying on an internet connection during the experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts or packages. However, the price of $14.99 is per group up to 15 people, making it a cost-effective option for larger parties. Additional features like self-guided GPS navigation and professional audio narration are included in the flat rate.

How Accurate Is the GPS Navigation on the Tour?

The GPS navigation on the tour is highly accurate, providing turn-by-turn instructions to guide users through the route. It uses a professional-grade GPS system to ensure a seamless and reliable navigation experience for all participants.

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?

Yes, participants can take photos and videos during the self-guided GPS-led audio tour. The tour allows for flexibility and personal exploration, encouraging guests to capture memorable moments along the way at their own pace.

Recap

This GPS-guided driving tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Honolulu’s historic landmarks and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can enjoy Hawaii’s royal history, from the solemn grounds of Pearl Harbor to the grandeur of Iolani Palace and the iconic King Kamehameha Statue. The tour’s turn-by-turn audio narration and panoramic vistas create an enriching and memorable journey through the island’s rich cultural heritage.