Oahu History & Culture Tour with Aloha Sunshine Tours

Oahu’s Ultimate Adventure: History, Culture, and Scenic Beauty in One Unforgettable Tour

Embark on a memorable journey through Oahu’s most iconic destinations, starting at the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Visitor Center, where history comes to life. Discover fascinating exhibits detailing the events leading up to the fateful attack on December 7, 1941. Watch a powerful documentary that captures the significance of that day, before boarding a boat for a peaceful ride across the harbor to the USS Arizona Memorial. There, experience the solemnity of this hallowed site, where the sunken battleship rests beneath the surface, and oil droplets— “The Tears of the Arizona”—still rise to honor the 1,177 lives lost.

Next, the tour heads to the Dole Plantation, a paradise for pineapple lovers. Savor the famous Dole Whip, stroll through the charming grounds, and explore a variety of pineapple-inspired treats and souvenirs. If time permits the optional Pineapple Express Train Tour offers a scenic and narrated ride through lush landscapes, sharing the story of Hawaii's pineapple industry.

The adventure continues with a scenic drive along the legendary North Shore beaches, where the crashing waves and golden sands paint a postcard-perfect picture of Hawaii’s surfing mecca. Arriving at the Polynesian Cultural Center, guests will be immersed in the vibrant cultures of the Pacific Islands. See traditional performances, learn about ancient customs, and get a taste of Polynesian life through art, music, and dance demonstrations. The center showcases the diverse traditions of Samoa, Fiji, Tahiti, and other island nations, providing a deeper appreciation of Hawaii’s rich cultural tapestry.

The journey wraps up with a visit to Kualoa Beach, where the breathtaking coastal views and dramatic backdrop of lush, green cliffs make for an unforgettable finale. Feel the warm ocean breeze and take in the majestic sight of the famous offshore islets, including the iconic Chinaman’s Hat, completing a day filled with history, culture, and natural beauty.

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Pick-Up Times Between 6:00AM - 7:00AM*

Start Time Daily (except Wednesday & Sunday) @ 7:00AM*

Duration 10 Hours*

*all times approximate

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Tour Highlights

Pearl Harbor Historic Sites Visitor Center (2 Hours)

• Explore exhibits on the events leading to the December 7, 1941, attack
• Watch a 23-minute documentary about the attack's impact and the USS Arizona Memorial
• Take a 10-minute boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial; views of military sites included
• Admission tickets provided by the guide

USS Arizona Memorial (1 Hour)

• Visit a white, open-air memorial over the sunken battleship
• See the shipwreck and oil droplets known as "The Tears of the Arizona"
• Remembrance Wall lists the names of 1,177 fallen crew members

Dole Plantation (1 Hour)

• Browse pineapple-themed souvenirs and local crafts
• Try a famous Dole Whip soft serve treat
• Walk to see colorful Rainbow Eucalyptus trees
• Optional 20 - minute Pineapple Express Train Tour at additional cost $13.75 adults, $11.75 children (this activity is available depending on the number of people on your tour)
• Pineapple Garden Tour and Garden Maze is not part of this tour

North Shore, Oahu (Drive by without stopping)

• Scenic views of world-famous surf beaches, such as Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach
• Witness surfers riding massive waves, especially during the winter season
• Lush landscapes and charming coastal towns add to the North Shore’s laid-back vibe

Polynesian Cultural Center (3 Hours)

• Experience the culture and traditions of Pacific Island nations through live performances and demonstrations
• See traditional dances, fire-knife shows, and learn about ancient customs
• Interact with exhibits showcasing the art, music, and lifestyles of Polynesian cultures like Samoa, Tahiti, and Fiji

Kualoa Beach

• Enjoy panoramic views of turquoise waters and the iconic offshore islet known as Chinaman's Hat (Mokoli’i)
• Take in the dramatic scenery of the lush Kualoa mountain range in the background.
• Relax by the beach, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty

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What’s Included

• Entry-tickets to all the attractions on your tour are included in the price of the tour and will be provided by your guide the day of the tour (except the Pineapple Express Train Ride)
• Pick-up and drop-off service from Waikiki area hotels and resorts
• Engaging narration from a local guide, sharing stories and insights throughout your tour
• Air-conditioned vehicle

What’s Not Included

• Tickets for the Pineapple Express Train Ride Tour at the Dole Plantation are at your own expense. The ticket prices are as follows: Adults $13.75, Children (4-12) $11.75, Children 3 and under are free when accompanied by an adult
• The Pineapple Train Tour is available depending on the number of people on your tour
• The Dole Plantation Garden Tour and Garden Maze are not part of this tour
• Meals are at your own expense
• Gratuities

What to Bring

• Bring cash for roadside stands, food trucks, and local shops—many are cash-only
• If you enjoy your tour tipping your guide in cash is always appreciated
• Government issued photo ID (Passport if from outside the United States)
• Comfortable clothes and covered shoes (no swimwear allowed in Pearl Harbor)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Camera

What You Should Know

Pick-up Process

• Pick-up and drop-off times are approximate and are subject to change.
• Please be attentive to your phone for pick-up time updates starting at 48-hours prior to the tour

Tickets to Tour Attractions

• You don’t need to worry about purchasing tickets—all entry fees for the attractions on your tour are covered in the tour price
• Your guide will provide your tickets the morning of your tour
• The National Park Service does not guarantee us the "pre-arranged" Arizona Memorial boat passes. We typically do receive them but in the unlikely event we are not provided the pre-arranged boat passes, you will be directed to the Arizona Memorial walk up line. The line wait time is typically about an hour
• Sites are subject to close due to stormy weather

Conduct and Dress Code

• Visitors are reminded that the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a site of significant loss and serves as the final resting place for hundreds. It is a space for remembrance and reflection
• Appropriate dress and conduct are expected to honor the solemn nature of the site
• Comfortable shoes are recommended you will be on your feet for extended periods of time
• There is no smoking allowed on the visitor center grounds or at the memorial
• Swimwear is not allowed

Self-Guided

• Pearl Harbor is a self-guided military site with park rangers available to answer questions and provide directions
• During the Pearl Harbor portion of your tour our guide will be on standby and will inform you when to meet for the next part of your tour

Bag Policy

• Purses and bags are not allowed inside Pearl Harbor. All bags may be stored for $7.00 each
• Clear plastic bags are allowed, such as those allowed at football games, in which the contents are readily visible
• Bags containing medical equipment unsuitable for lightweight, plastic, transparent shopping bags are allowed

Food and Beverages

• Meals are at your own expense
• There are a few on-site dining options at the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center such as food trucks, snack stands, or cafes where you can purchase and enjoy food before or after your tour
• Due to the no bag policy at Pearl Harbor National Memorial, it is recommended to bring snacks and water bottles that can be easily carried

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