anybody have any ideas on touring pearl harbor.
go it alone or take one of the tours.
which tour guides would be the best?

thanks
for feedback

We visited Pearl Harbor 2 weeks ago. We decided against a tour and just took a taxi to and from our hotel.

We wanted to see the Arizona Memorial, the Bowfin (submarine), and the Missouri battleship. We couldn't find a tour that easily did all 3. I have to admit - we avoid organized tours whenever we can.

No problem on our own. We read the printed leaflets as we went along, read the posted information signs, and asked questions of the security/park service personnel. This way, we were able to take our time and didn't feel rushed.

NOTE - NO bags of any type are allowed for the visit to the Arizona Memorial - no fannypacks, purses, backpacks, diaperbags - NOTHING! There is a locker area in the public parking area near the entrance to the Bowfin where you can store your stuff.

Hope this helps.

I've visited Pearl Harbor 3 times on my own. The 1st 2 times we went early, but the last time, we didn't get there until about 10:30am. We missed out on the last 2 tickets for the next tour, so had a short wait. The wait gave us time to check out the museum, grounds, gift shop. We had a car, so we put our purses, etc. in the trunk before we arrived at Pearl Harbor - there are signs posted in parking area abour high crime. The man ahead of us had to return to the lockers to store his large camera case, so they are strict about the no bag policy (which was instituted after 09/11). It's a wonderful, historical & emotional site.

By the way, it is VERY easy to take the city bus from Waikiki to the Arizona Memorial, 30-45 minutes.

We enjoyed a half day tour of the Arizona Memorial cum introduction to the city conducted by Roberts. Waikiki/Honolulu traffic, Monday-Friday rush hour, is not relaxing. Doubtless you know that the tour of the Memorial itself is free and tickets are distributed first come, first served.

If you go to the Arizona Memorial, which you should, be sure to take your dark glasses..........it's heavy duty.

Curious