Pearl Harbor and Mini Circle Island From the Big Island

Exploring the historic site of Pearl Harbor and the stunning landscapes of Oahu’s North Shore is a must-do for visitors to the Big Island. This comprehensive tour offers a chance to pay respects at the USS Arizona Memorial, honoring the brave crew who lost their lives during the infamous 1941 attack. Afterward, guests will delight in the natural beauty of the region, including a stop at the renowned Dole Pineapple Pavilion. Though the day promises to be both meaningful and picturesque, there’s more to discover about this unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• This comprehensive tour offers a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor and a highlights tour of Oahu’s North Shore from the Big Island.
• The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, entry tickets to attractions, and a guided exploration of the Pearl Harbor historic site.
• Visitors will experience culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center and enjoy scenic stops at the Dole Pineapple Pavilion and the Pali lookout.
• The tour does not include meals, but on-site dining options are available, and return transportation to the Kona International Airport is not included.
• Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves several city blocks of walking and no swimming or snorkeling activities.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Pearl Harbor’s storied past and the scenic wonders of Oahu.

Highlights include a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, immersion in the cultural traditions of the Polynesian Cultural Centre, and a stop at the Dole Pineapple Pavilion.

Travelers will also witness the serene beauty of the Byodo Japanese Temple and the famous North Shore Beaches.

The tour culminates with a breathtaking view from the Pali lookout.

Accompanied by round-trip airfare from the Big Island, this excursion provides a well-rounded experience of Oahu’s rich history and natural splendor.

Transportation and Pickup

For this tour, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for transportation.

Pickup is at Honolulu Airport, with designated meeting spots – Terminal 2, baggage claim 31, area 5 for Southwest Airlines, and Terminal 1, area 1 for Hawaiian Airlines.

Return transportation to Kona International Airport isn’t included. Gratuities for the driver are appreciated.

Guests should arrive at the pickup locations promptly, as the tour has a tight schedule to maintain.

Although the tour covers a lot of ground, the air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey between the various sights and attractions.

Tour Inclusions and Restrictions

Entry tickets to the various attractions on the tour are provided by the guide.

Meals, however, are at the traveler’s own expense, though on-site dining options are available.

Certain items are prohibited at the Pearl Harbor site, such as purses and bags, but storage is available for a $7 fee. Clear plastic bags are allowed.

Swimming and snorkeling aren’t permitted, and the tour isn’t recommended for those unable to walk 4 city blocks. Comfortable shoes are advised for the walking involved.

Visitor Guidelines and Conduct

Visitors are expected to maintain respectful silence while on the USS Arizona Memorial.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking several city blocks.

Smoking is prohibited on the visitor center grounds.

Many local shops and roadside stands are cash-only, so visitors should bring cash for those purchases.

No swimming or snorkeling activities are included in the tour, which may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

Purses and bags are prohibited at Pearl Harbor, but storage is available for a small fee.

Clear plastic bags are allowed.

Booking Information

Confirmation of the tour booking is received at the time of purchase.

Infant seats are available for those traveling with young children. Most travelers can participate in this tour, but it’s not wheelchair accessible.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 20 travelers. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

The price for this Pearl Harbor and Mini Circle Island tour starts at $462.99 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, providing them with added flexibility.

Exploring Pearl Harbor

Steeped in history, Pearl Harbor stands as a poignant reminder of the events that propelled the United States into World War II.

Visitors can explore the USS Arizona Memorial, where the remains of the sunken battleship serve as a somber tribute to the 1,177 crew members lost in the attack. The adjacent museum provides a rundown of the historic events, offering a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in American history.

Guests can also witness the iconic Battleship Row, where the remnants of other vessels serve as a powerful testament to the sacrifices made on that fateful day in 1941.

Discovering Oahu’s North Shore

The legendary North Shore of Oahu enchants visitors with its stunning natural beauty and world-renowned surf spots. After visiting Pearl Harbor, the tour ventures to Dole Pineapple Pavilion and the Byodo-In Temple, a picture-perfect Japanese temple nestled in the lush Valley of the Temples. Guests then explore famous North Shore beaches, including Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and the Banzai Pipeline, home to some of the world’s best surfing competitions.

Attraction	Description
Dole Pineapple Pavilion	Discover the history and production of the iconic Hawaiian fruit.
Byodo-In Temple	Marvel at the exquisite Japanese temple and its serene surroundings.
Waimea Bay	Admire the dramatic cliffs and iconic surf breaks.
Sunset Beach	Watch the sun dip below the horizon at this legendary surf spot.
Banzai Pipeline	Witness the power of the world-famous waves that attract top surfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code mentioned for the tour. However, comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, and respectful attire is encouraged while visiting the USS Arizona Memorial to maintain the solemn atmosphere.

Can I Bring a Camera to the USS Arizona Memorial?

Visitors are allowed to bring cameras to the USS Arizona Memorial, but they must maintain respectful silence and avoid disruptions during the visit. Clear plastic bags are permitted, while purses and larger bags are prohibited and must be stored for a fee.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Military?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention discounts for seniors or military. However, it’s best to inquire directly with the tour operator about any special pricing options that may be available at the time of booking.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The tour guide does not provide specific time allotments for each location, but the full-day tour allows ample time to explore the USS Arizona Memorial, Polynesian Cultural Center, Dole Pineapple Pavilion, Byodo Japanese Temple, and North Shore beaches.

Can I Extend My Stay in Oahu After the Tour?

Yes, the tour package allows travelers to extend their stay in Oahu after the tour. However, additional hotel nights and activities would need to be booked separately at the traveler’s own expense.

Recap

The "Pearl Harbor and Mini Circle Island" tour from the Big Island provides a profound opportunity to honor history and witness the island’s natural beauty. Visitors will pay their respects at the USS Arizona Memorial and explore Oahu’s stunning landscapes, including the Dole Pineapple Pavilion. This immersive experience combines the island’s rich history and picturesque highlights, creating unforgettable memories for all who participate.