Hotels for WW2 sites?

Question

Hello,

I am traveling to Honolulu in April. The primary purpose of my trip is to tour the WW2 sites. It doesn't look like there are hotel options nearby. Am I wrong about this? If not, is it best to stay in Waikiki? I see that there are lots of tour options that will pick you up in Waikiki. Is it better to take one of these tours or to get to the sites via Uber and by my own tickets?

Thank you!

Answer

For your trip to Honolulu focused on WW2 sites, you’re correct that there aren't many hotels located right near the historical sites themselves. Most of the significant WWII sites, such as Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona Memorial, and the Pacific Aviation Museum, are located a bit outside of the main tourist area of Waikiki, but they are still easily accessible from there.

Waikiki is a popular place to stay for many visitors, and it's likely the best option for your trip. It has a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts, and it's centrally located. Additionally, Waikiki offers plenty of restaurants, shopping, and activities for after your WW2 site visits. Most importantly, many tours to Pearl Harbor and other WWII sites offer convenient pick-up and drop-off from Waikiki, which can make it easier if you prefer not to rent a car or deal with transportation logistics.

As for whether to take a guided tour or visit the sites independently, both options are viable, but there are pros and cons to consider:

Guided Tours: Many people find guided tours to be a great way to maximize their time and learn in-depth information about the sites. Tours usually include transportation to and from Waikiki, which makes it easy and convenient. They also often provide knowledgeable guides who can offer historical context and insider details that might not be obvious to a solo visitor.
Visiting on Your Own: If you prefer more flexibility or would rather explore at your own pace, visiting the sites on your own is also a good option. You can take an Uber or a rental car to Pearl Harbor and purchase tickets directly at the memorial. Keep in mind that Pearl Harbor can get crowded, especially in the mornings, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid long lines.
Combo Option: Some visitors opt for a hybrid approach—taking a tour for the main part of the day and then exploring other areas on their own. This could give you the best of both worlds if you like structure but also want some flexibility.

In summary, staying in Waikiki is a convenient and comfortable choice, with easy access to tours that pick you up for WW2 site visits. If you prefer independence and flexibility, visiting on your own via Uber and purchasing your own tickets is also a great option. However, if you're interested in a more comprehensive and guided experience, booking a tour might be the best choice to ensure you don’t miss any key historical details.

I hope this helps with your planning, and I’m sure your visit to the WW2 sites will be a meaningful and impactful experience!