Explore Honolulu’s highlights – from Pearl Harbor and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific to Hawaii’s first Christian church, and Iolani Palace and Washington Place, both former residences of the Hawaiian monarchy.
Pearl Harbor is one of Hawaii’s best-known landmarks and the scene of the devastating aerial attack by Japan that drove the U.S. into WWII. Learn more about that infamous day, and pay your respects to ship’s 1,177 crewmen who died there.
In central Honolulu stand face to face with the larger-than-life statue of King Kamehameha I, the leader who united the Hawaiian Islands into one royal kingdom. Just across the street you’ll see the Iolani Palace, residence of Hawaii's last two monarchs. European in design, it boasted Hawaii’s first electric lights, flush toilets and internal phone system. Also nearby is Kawaiahao Church, Hawaii's first Christian house of worship, built of coral slabs from the offshore reefs.
At the heart of the downtown historic district you will notice the elegant Washington Place, now a museum, and once home to Liliuokalani, Hawaii’s last queen. Drive through the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, in the extinct volcanic crater known as the Punchbowl. It is the final resting place of some 53,000 veterans who lost their lives in 20th century wars, including those who died during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Enjoy panoramic city views on your drive to the airport.
Due to heightened security, absolutely no purses, backpacks, fanny packs or camera cases are allowed at Pearl Harbor. Cameras are permitted, but not camera cases. Snacks will be available for purchase. On rare occasions the Navy may discontinue the motor launch service to the Arizona Memorial due to weather and safety concerns - a visit to the Visitors Center will still be made.
