Honolulu , United States

Semi Private Honolulu Historical Tour

Active

(11 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is one of the best way to learn the history of Polynesia, Hawaii, and the royal heritage of the islands. Stops include: Iolani Palace, King Kamehameha Statue, Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Sites and Archives, and Bishop Museum. Entrance fees to museums are not included in the tour. Please keep in mind Iolani Palace and Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Sites are closed Sunday and Monday.

Available options

Without Museum Entrance Fee

Historical Tour NO Museum Entrance Fees Included<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Local guide

Private tour

Bottled water

Snacks

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Drive around the ancient volcano on Diamond head road and see Diamond head light house, stop at Diamond head scenic point overlooking neighbor islands Molokai, Lanai and Maui ( on a clear day ), see the monument of Amelia Earhart, the American aviator and writer, the first female aviator to fly solo across the Pacific ocean.

Stop 2 Pass by

Drive through one of the national military cemetery and learn about WWII. Also incredible view from above over the Honolulu metropolitan area, Waikiki and Diamond head. This is the ONLY volcano you will be able to drive into on the tour.

Stop 3

Walk back in time to 1820 and visit the first missionary settlement on the islands of Hawaii. See the first brick building ever built and the very first church on Oahu and learn about the history of the mission families who brought Christianity to Hawaii.

Stop 4

Learn and discover the only Royal Palace in the United States and the statue of the last monarch of Hawaii, Queen Lilioukulani.

Stop 5

Learn about the first king of the Hawaiian kingdom, Kamehameha The Great, and about his life and his legacy.
Also see the Supreme Court Building and learn about the history of the Hawaiian constitution through the ages.

Stop 6

Bishop Museum is the largest museum in the state of Hawaii and the premier natural and cultural history institution in the Pacific. It has one of the largest natural history specimen collections in the world, serving and representing the interests of Native Hawaiians as a primary purpose.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately (casual)

About Honolulu

Honolulu, the vibrant capital of Hawaii, is a unique blend of urban sophistication and tropical paradise. Nestled along the coast of Oahu, it offers stunning beaches, historic sites, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Top Attractions

Waikiki Beach

One of the most famous beaches in the world, Waikiki Beach offers golden sand, clear waters, and a vibrant atmosphere. It's perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.

Beach Half day to full day Free (activities and rentals vary)

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

A significant historical site, Pearl Harbor is where the attack on December 7, 1941, brought the United States into World War II. The memorial includes the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

Historical Half day to full day Free (timed tickets required for the USS Arizona Memorial)

Diamond Head State Monument

Diamond Head is an iconic volcanic crater offering stunning views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. The hike to the summit is moderate and rewarding.

Nature 2-3 hours $5 per vehicle parking fee

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A raw fish salad marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Often served over rice or as a salad.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with various types of fish and is gluten-free if soy sauce is omitted.

Loco Moco

A hearty dish consisting of white rice, topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with vegetarian or vegan alternatives.

Shave Ice

Finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and often served with a scoop of ice cream or sweetened condensed milk.

Snack/Dessert Vegan options available with plant-based syrups and toppings.

Popular Activities

Surfing Hiking Snorkeling Scuba diving Parasailing Beachcombing Sunbathing Spa treatments

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the most popular time to visit due to the pleasant weather and whale-watching opportunities. Expect lush landscapes and occasional rain showers.

22-26°C 72-79°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-10:00 (Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Honolulu is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach
• Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport • 10 km from city center

By bus

Honolulu International Airport, Downtown Honolulu

Getting around

Public transport

TheBus system covers all of Oahu and is affordable and reliable. Buses run frequently and connect major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Waikiki Downtown Honolulu Kakaako

Day trips

North Shore

50 km from Honolulu • Full day

The North Shore of Oahu is known for its stunning beaches, world-class surfing, and laid-back atmosphere. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring local attractions.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

15 km from Honolulu • Half day

Hanauma Bay is a stunning marine embayment formed within a tuff ring that is a partially submerged crater of the Koʻolau Volcano. It is a popular spot for snorkeling, with a variety of marine life and coral reefs.

Polynesian Cultural Center

30 km from Honolulu • Full day

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a living museum and luau that showcases the cultures and traditions of the Polynesian islands. It offers a variety of exhibits, shows, and activities, as well as a buffet-style luau dinner.

Festivals

Honolulu Festival • March (annually) Kona Coffee Cultural Festival • November (annually) Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival • June (annually)

Pro tips

Visit the beaches early in the morning to secure a good spot and avoid crowds
Book popular attractions and tours in advance, especially during peak season
Explore the local food scene by trying street food and visiting food trucks and markets
Be mindful of the ocean and its creatures, and always follow safety guidelines when swimming, snorkeling, or surfing
Respect local customs and traditions, and be open to new experiences and cultural exchanges