While a trip to Oahu will almost certainly involve some beach time, this island has a lot more to offer. Schedule some time into your trip to visit the incredible historic sites across the island. You’ll learn about Hawaiian history and culture on these sightseeing tours.

Oahu Historical Sightseeing Tour Checklist

1. Pearl Harbor

You may be familiar with the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The attack on the Hawaiian military base brought the United States into World War II. The historic event is celebrated in five sites: the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, the USS Oklahoma Memorial, and the Pacific Aviation Museum.

2. Kūkaʻōʻō Heiau

Kūkaʻōʻō Heiau is located in Manoa Valley. The temple is hundreds of years old, built by the original residents in the area for Lono, the god of agriculture, rain, and fertility. It sits high above the valley, and, when it was built, would have overlooked the fields.

3. ‘Iolani Palace

The Merrie Monarch King Kalakaua built the ‘Iolani Palace in downtown Honolulu. It is still the only official state residence for royalty in the country. Sightseeing tours include the palace’s galleries and grounds, along with the iconic statue of King Kamehameha I in front.

4. Nuuanu Pali State Wayside

Commonly referred to as the Pali Lookout, this was the site of the famous Battle of Nuuanu. King Kamehameha I’s victory there allowed him to unite Oahu with the Hawaiian Islands. The site sits 1,000 feet above the coastline for stunning panoramic views of the Ko‘olau mountain range and Windward Coast.

Coordinating your historical sightseeing tour is easy with AM Tours Hawaii. Based in Honolulu since 1990, they offer private transportation services that will get your group around the island in style and safety. Their team of 20 experienced drivers will make every moment enjoyable with a wide variety of options in their fleet, from charter buses to limos. Contact them online or at (808) 845-5050 to request a quote for your tour.