Is there a need to book in advance?

Yes, especially for private tours and submarine add-ons, booking ahead ensures availability.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Most children enjoy the sites, but younger kids should be prepared for walking and respectful conduct at memorials.

Are food and drinks allowed?

You can bring water and small snacks, but large meals are not permitted inside memorial areas.

How long does the tour last?

Approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the options chosen and pace.

Is there accessibility for wheelchairs?

Yes, the main sites are wheelchair accessible, but check with Donna’s Detours for specific needs.

What should I bring to enhance the experience?

A camera, sun protection, and a sense of curiosity will enrich your visit.

Private Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Tour by Donna’s Detours | Private | History Tour

On the sun-dappled shores of Oahu, Hawaii, history comes alive through Donna’s Detours’ Private Tour of Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona. This guided experience offers a deeply personal way to connect with one of America's most pivotal historical sites, guiding visitors through the poignant memorials and storied locations that shaped the Pacific theater of World War II. As you step into the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center, the weight of history becomes immediate, with exhibits that detail the attack’s impact and the sacrifices made. The star of the tour is the USS Arizona Memorial, which gracefully spans the sunken battleship below, blending solemnity with oversized reverence. Donna’s Detours enhances this visit with the option to venture beneath the surface via a USS Bowfin submarine tour, giving an intimate glimpse into naval warfare history from a different angle. Beyond the memorial, the tour weaves through Honolulu’s local heritage, including Iolani Palace and Old Kawaiaha’o Church, both steeped in Hawaiian history and culture. This business stands out for its tailored experience that combines respectful education with personalized attention, making it a favorite among travelers seeking a meaningful understanding of Hawaiian and American history. Perfectly situated in Oahu, Donna’s Detours offers a window into the islands’ legacy that’s both educational and emotionally resonant. Their guided private tours ensure that every visitor leaves with a richer appreciation of the historic sacrifices, while the optional submarine adventure adds a dash of maritime intrigue. If you’re visiting Oahu and crave a meaningful, engaging excursion into the islands' past, Donna’s Detours provides an expertly curated experience that combines historical insight with genuine hospitality. This isn’t just a tour—it’s a chance to walk through a defining chapter of history with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3–4 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most levels; walking involved but no strenuous activity

Wildlife

Green sea turtles
Great frigatebirds

History

Pearl Harbor was attacked on December 7, 1941, prompting the United States’ entry into WWII, and the USS Arizona remains a powerful symbol of that history.

Conservation

The tour supports preservation efforts at Pearl Harbor, emphasizing respectful remembrance and environmental responsibility.

Donna’s Detours provides private guided tours on Oahu, specializing in personalized food, culture, art, and history experiences. The company offers a suite of private tours that include a Private Food, Art & Culture Tour through Chinatown and Kakaʻako, a North Shore Tour, a Full Day Private Circle Island Tour, a Private Tour of Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona, and an East Oahu Beaches and Honolulu Historic Sites itinerary. Each tour is customizable to match traveler interests, whether culinary tasting, street art viewing, historical sites, scenic hikes, or coastal beaches. Guides emphasize local knowledge, curated stops, and flexibility to adapt the day to guests’ preferences. Tours highlight iconic Honolulu landmarks such as the USS Arizona Memorial and Iolani Palace, neighborhood food specialties like malasadas and poke, and public art from the Pow! Wow! Street Art Festival. Private tour options include full-day and half-day formats, with opportunities to add optional experiences like the USS Bowfin submarine visit. Donna’s Detours focuses on small-group, private experiences that prioritize personalized pacing and local context. The operator serves visitors exploring Oahu’s urban and coastal destinations, combining historical interpretation with culinary discovery and outdoor scenery. Reservations are for private experiences designed to be tailored; the itineraries described are examples that can be adjusted. Booking information and specific inclusions vary by tour; availability, exact duration, and meeting points are confirmed at reservation time for each booking.

Base locationOahu, Hawaii

Tours offered5+

Specialtyothers

StewardshipLeave No Trace