Iconic Oahu Experiences
Beyond the Beach: History, Heritage & Shopping
Attractions Guide by
Leilani AkoRemembering History: Pearl Harbor
While Waikiki's allure is undeniable, Oʻahu is rich with historical and cultural landmarks that offer profound insights into the island's past and the broader history of Hawaiʻi and the United States.
A visit to Pearl Harbor is a deeply moving and essential experience for anyone coming to Oʻahu. It stands as a solemn reminder of the events of December 7, 1941, and honors the lives lost and the heroes of World War II. It's located west of Honolulu, about a 30-45 minute drive from Waikiki, depending on traffic.
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial and associated historic sites offer a comprehensive look at this pivotal moment in history. The main sites include:
⚓ USS Arizona Memorial
This iconic white structure spans the hull of the sunken battleship, the final resting place for 1,102 of the 1,177 crewmen killed during the attack. Access to the memorial is via a Navy-operated shuttle boat.
Experience: Short film about the attack before boarding the boat. Very poignant and respectful place.
🚢 Battleship Missouri Memorial
Docked on Ford Island, "Mighty Mo" is where the Japanese Instrument of Surrender was signed, officially ending World War II. Walking its decks is like stepping back in time.
Historical significance: The ship where World War II officially ended with the surrender ceremony.
🔧 Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
Home to the USS Bowfin, a WWII submarine, this museum offers insights into the silent service and its critical role in the war.
Experience: Explore a real WWII submarine and learn about underwater warfare.
✈️ Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Located in historic hangars on Ford Island, this museum showcases a fascinating collection of aircraft and tells the story of aviation in the Pacific.
Features: Historic aircraft collection and Pacific aviation history exhibits.
Planning Your Visit & Tour Options
Free vs. Paid Options:
The USS Arizona Memorial program (film and boat ride) is free, managed by the National Park Service. However, timed tickets are required and are released online 60 days in advance and again 24 hours in advance. These free tickets are in high demand and get snapped up very quickly.
Tour Alternatives:
If you miss out on free tickets or prefer a structured experience, numerous paid tour options bundle transportation from Waikiki with tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial and admission to other pay-to-enter sites like the Battleship Missouri, Submarine Museum, and Aviation Museum.
Essential Visitor Tips
- • Book Ahead: Whether aiming for free tickets or a paid tour, book as far in advance as possible
- • Bag Policy: Strict security measures are in place. No bags allowed at Pearl Harbor or memorials. Bag storage available for a fee
- • What to Bring: You can bring your wallet, camera (without bag), phone, and clear water bottle
- • Dress Code: Dress respectfully (it's a memorial site). Comfortable shoes are essential
- • Time Commitment: USS Arizona Memorial takes about 75 minutes. To see all sites, plan for a full day (6-8 hours)
- • Transportation: Drive (parking available), take TheBus (Routes 20 and 42), or use taxi/rideshare
Beyond Pearl Harbor: More Historic Attractions
From lighthouse views to hiking trails, Diamond Head offers some of the most spectacular vistas on the island, while downtown Honolulu showcases the rich history of Hawaiian royalty.
🎖️ Pearl Harbor Guide
- Arizona Memorial: FREE
- Battleship Missouri: $34.99
- Aviation Museum: $25.99
- Duration: 6-8 hours all
- Advance Booking: REQUIRED
📋 What to Expect
- Security screening
- Educational films
- Navy boat transport
- Respectful atmosphere
- Historical exhibits
Exploring Honolulu's Landmarks & Rich Heritage
Beyond Waikiki and Pearl Harbor, Honolulu is a city rich in history and culture, with landmarks that tell the story of Hawaiʻi's monarchy, its multicultural heritage, and its role as the state capital. Many of these sites are conveniently located downtown and can be explored on a self-guided walking tour or as part of a guided tour, like the Waikiki Trolley's Red Line (City Arts District Route).
👑 ʻIolani Palace
This magnificent building is the only official residence of royalty in the United States. It was the home of Hawaiʻi's last reigning monarchs, King Kalākaua and his sister and successor, Queen Liliʻuokalani.
Experience: Touring the meticulously restored rooms offers a fascinating glimpse into Hawaiian royalty and a poignant reminder of Hawaiʻi's sovereign past.
🗿 Kamehameha Statue
Directly across from ʻIolani Palace stands the impressive gold-and-black statue of King Kamehameha I, the unifier of the Hawaiian Islands.
Special occasion: On Kamehameha Day (June 11th), it's draped with long flower lei, making it especially photogenic.
⛪ Kawaiahaʻo Church
Known as the "Westminster Abbey of Hawaiʻi," this historic church was built between 1836 and 1842 from thousands of coral blocks. It was the church of Hawaiian royalty.
Living history: Services are still held here, some in the Hawaiian language.
🏛️ Hawaii State Capitol
A unique architectural marvel, the Capitol building's design is rich in symbolism, representing a volcano (the cone-shaped legislative chambers) and the surrounding ocean (the reflecting pools).
Architecture: Symbolic design elements represent Hawaii's volcanic origins and ocean environment.
🌺 National Memorial Cemetery (Punchbowl)
Nestled within an extinct volcanic crater, Punchbowl is a serene and beautiful final resting place for thousands of U.S. armed forces members who served in various conflicts.
Views: Spectacular views from the crater rim overlook Honolulu and the Pacific.
🏛️ Bishop Museum
While a bit further from the downtown core, the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum is the premier institution for Polynesian cultural and natural history.
Collections: Unparalleled Hawaiian artifacts and exhibits offering deep insights into Pacific culture and environment.
Exploring these landmarks provides a richer understanding of Honolulu's multifaceted identity, from its days as a royal capital to its present as a modern American city with a deeply rooted Hawaiian soul.
Retail Therapy: Shopping in Waikiki
Waikiki is a shopper's paradise, offering everything from luxury international brands to unique Hawaiian-made treasures. Whether you're looking for high-end fashion, a special souvenir, or local crafts, you'll find it here.
🌳 International Market Place
Located on Kalākaua Avenue, this has been a Waikiki landmark since 1957. Once a collection of charming, rustic stalls under a massive banyan tree, it was reimagined and reopened in 2016 as a sophisticated, open-air shopping and dining destination.
Features:
- • Over 100 brand-name and local shops
- • Century-old banyan tree at its heart
- • Third-level Grand Lānai dining
- • Free cultural performances and events
- • Chef-driven restaurants
Historical preservation: Beautiful connection to the ʻāina with flowing water features and indigenous landscaping.
🎨 Local Artisan Shops
While Waikiki has plenty of international brands, seek out shops that feature authentic Hawaiian crafts, art, clothing, and gifts made by local artisans. Supporting these businesses means taking home a piece of Hawaiʻi that is truly special.
Nā Mea Hawaiʻi ("All Things Hawaiian")
Devoted to showcasing local artists and crafters, with focus on Native Hawaiian artists. Hawaiian books, aloha wear, traditional crafts.
House of Mana Up
Showcases products from over 100 Hawaiʻi-based businesses and rising local entrepreneurs. Everything from gourmet food to unique apparel.
Shopping tip: Choose items genuinely "Made in Hawaiʻi." Look for labels, ask about artists, and choose quality over quantity for meaningful souvenirs.
When looking for souvenirs, try to choose items that are genuinely "Made in Hawaiʻi." A hand-carved wooden bowl, a piece of locally designed jewelry, or a unique aloha shirt will be a much more meaningful reminder of your trip than a generic trinket. This approach to shopping also aligns with the spirit of "Travel Pono," or responsible tourism, by directly supporting our local economy and artisans.