Pearl Harbor, Dole Plantation, and Polynesian Center From Kona

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Hawaii on a captivating tour from Kona. Visitors will embark on a journey that takes them from the solemn USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor to the pineapple legacy of the Dole Plantation, culminating in the vibrant Polynesian Cultural Center. Knowledgeable local guides provide an enriching experience, immersing participants in the islands’ heritage. This comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the diverse wonders of Hawaii. What secrets and surprises await those who…

Key Points

• This tour offers round-trip airfare from the Big Island to Honolulu, with visits to Pearl Harbor, Dole Plantation, and Polynesian Cultural Center.
• The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers per group and provides transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Visitors must observe respectful silence at the USS Arizona Memorial and are required to store bags for a $7 fee.
• The tour is not recommended for those unable to walk four city blocks, and smoking is prohibited on the visitor center grounds and memorial.
• Meals are at the traveler’s expense, and tipping the guide in cash is appreciated.

Tour Overview and Details

The tour includes round trip airfare to Honolulu International Airport from the Big Island.

Transportation to Kona International Airport isn’t included, but the maximum number of travelers per tour is 15.

Confirmation is received at booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The tour begins at 7:00 am.

Entry tickets to Pearl Harbor, Dole Plantation, and Polynesian Center are provided by the guide on the day of the tour.

Respectful silence is encouraged at the USS Arizona Memorial, and all bags must be stored for $7.00, with clear plastic bags allowed.

Food and water not concealed in a package are permitted.

Attractions and Entry Information

Tour includes visits to Pearl Harbor, Dole Plantation, and Polynesian Center. Entry tickets to these attractions are provided by the guide on the day of the tour.

Visitors are encouraged to observe respectful silence at the USS Arizona Memorial. All bags must be stored for $7.00, but clear plastic bags are allowed. Food and water not concealed in a package are permitted.

Purses and bags aren’t allowed inside Pearl Harbor, and visitors must wear comfortable shoes, as swimwear isn’t permitted. The tour isn’t recommended for travelers unable to walk four city blocks, though service animals are allowed.

Smoking is prohibited on the visitor center grounds and memorial.

Transportation and Pickup

Pickup at Honolulu Airport is provided for Southwest Airlines customers at Terminal 2, baggage claim 31, area 5, and for Hawaiian Airlines customers at Terminal 1, area 1.

An air-conditioned vehicle will transport guests during the tour. The tour starts at 7:00 am and includes visits to Pearl Harbor, Dole Plantation, and Polynesian Center.

Entry tickets to these attractions are provided by the guide on the day of the tour. Respectful silence is encouraged at the USS Arizona Memorial.

Bags must be stored for $7.00, but clear plastic bags are allowed. Food and water not concealed in a package are permitted.

Guidelines and Restrictions

Purses and bags aren’t allowed inside the Pearl Harbor site. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes, as no swimwear is permitted.

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers unable to walk four city blocks, though service animals are allowed. Smoking is prohibited on the visitor center grounds and memorial.

To ensure a smooth and respectful experience, guests should be mindful of these guidelines:

• No purses or bags allowed at Pearl Harbor
• Comfortable walking shoes required
• Swimwear not permitted
• Service animals welcome, but not wheelchair accessible

Sites may close due to inclement weather, so travelers should be prepared for changes in the itinerary.

Additional Information

Meals during the tour are at the traveler’s own expense, with cash recommended for roadside stands and local shops.

Tipping the guide in cash is also appreciated.

It’s important to note that the sites may close due to stormy weather, so travelers should be prepared for potential changes to the itinerary.

Throughout the tour, guests will benefit from engaging narration provided by a local guide.

Based on 5 reviews with a total rating of 4.0 on platforms like Viator and Tripadvisor, the tour is generally enjoyable, though one review mentioned the tour guide being late, leading to a rushed experience.

Preparing for the Tour

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and avoid bringing purses or bags to the Pearl Harbor sites, as they aren’t allowed inside.

Clear plastic bags are permitted, but all other bags must be stored for a $7.00 fee. Visitors should pack light and keep any food or water in their original, unopened packages.

Service animals are allowed, but the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Smoking is prohibited on the visitor center grounds and memorial.

Travelers unable to walk four city blocks may find the tour challenging. Overall, preparedness and flexibility will ensure a seamless and meaningful experience.

• Wear comfortable shoes
• Avoid bringing purses or bags
• Pack light with original, unopened food and water

Highlights of the Experience

The allure of the Kona tour lies in its diverse array of captivating destinations. Visitors will be enthralled by the solemn atmosphere of the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, where they’ll observe a moment of respectful silence.

The Dole Plantation offers a delightful exploration of Hawaii’s pineapple heritage, complete with a scenic train ride.

The grand finale unfolds at the Polynesian Cultural Center, where travelers can enjoy the rich traditions and vibrant performances of the Pacific islands.

Throughout the day, a knowledgeable local guide provides insightful narration, ensuring a truly enriching experience.

With carefully curated attractions and efficient transportation, this Kona tour promises to be a highlight of any Hawaiian vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children, as it involves a significant amount of walking and does not offer wheelchair accessibility. However, it could be appropriate for older children interested in history and cultural experiences.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

According to the tour overview, travelers can bring their own food and water as long as they’re not concealed in a package. Food and drinks not in packaging are permitted on the tour.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Attraction?

The tour allocates time at each attraction, with visitors spending approximately 2 hours at Pearl Harbor, 1 hour at Dole Plantation, and 2 hours at the Polynesian Cultural Center, allowing ample time to explore these sites.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour has a fixed schedule starting at 7:00 am and visitors must adhere to the set itinerary and timeline to visit the attractions included in the package.

Can I Visit the Attractions Independently After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can visit the attractions independently after the tour. The tour provides entry tickets, allowing visitors to explore the sites at their own pace following the scheduled group activities.

Recap

The tour from Kona to Pearl Harbor, Dole Plantation, and the Polynesian Cultural Center offers an unforgettable experience rich in history and culture. Visitors will explore Hawaii’s pineapple legacy, observe respectful silence at the USS Arizona Memorial, and witness vibrant performances showcasing the islands’ heritage, all guided by knowledgeable locals for an enriching day.