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Pre cruise hotel and Pearl Harbor tour

Can someone suggest a mid range hotel and best way to do Pearl Harbor Tour? Shuttle from airport? Thanks for any advice.

For a pre-cruise stay in Honolulu with plans to tour Pearl Harbor, there are several mid-range hotel options that balance comfort, location, and cost.

Recommended mid-range hotels:

  • Aqua Palms Waikiki – Offers clean, comfortable rooms, a pool, and convenient access to Waikiki Beach. Good value for families and couples.
  • Holiday Inn Express Waikiki – Reliable, includes breakfast, and centrally located near restaurants and shops.
  • Queen Kapiolani Hotel – Slightly quieter than central Waikiki, with ocean views and good access to downtown and Ala Moana.
  • Best Western The Plaza Hotel – Budget-friendly, simple accommodations, and reasonable access to both Waikiki and Pearl Harbor tours.

Visiting Pearl Harbor:

  • Book tickets in advance for the USS Arizona Memorial, as this is often the most popular part of the tour and can sell out. Entry is free, but timing is limited.
  • Consider a full tour package that includes the USS Arizona, USS Missouri, Pacific Aviation Museum, and the submarine museum if you want a comprehensive experience. Many tours provide transportation from Waikiki.
  • Shuttle or transportation options:
    • Airport to hotel: Most mid-range hotels offer shuttle or you can use ride-share services (Uber/Lyft) for convenience.
    • Hotel to Pearl Harbor: You can take a guided shuttle tour that picks up from Waikiki hotels. This is easier than driving and parking, as parking at Pearl Harbor is limited and traffic can be heavy.
    • Self-drive: Renting a car is possible, but consider traffic and the hassle of parking. If you choose this, aim to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Additional tips:

  • Allow 3–4 hours for a Pearl Harbor visit if doing just the USS Arizona Memorial. Longer if including additional museums and exhibits.
  • Dress comfortably and bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, as much of the tour involves walking outdoors.
  • Book hotel as close to Waikiki as possible if you want easy access to restaurants, shops, and your cruise departure point.

By staying in a centrally located mid-range hotel, you can balance convenience, cost, and comfort while having easy access to Pearl Harbor tours and your cruise embarkation.

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