Stepping onto the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor is a deeply moving experience. As you arrive by boat, the serene white structure floats above the sunken battleship, a powerful tribute to the 1,177 sailors and Marines who lost their lives during the attack on December 7, 1941. The memorial is quiet, save for the soft lapping of the water against the wreckage below. Looking down into the water, you can still see parts of the ship beneath the surface, with oil droplets slowly rising—known as the "tears of the Arizona." Inside, a solemn wall lists the names of the fallen, inviting reflection on the immense sacrifice made that day. The view out to the harbor is peaceful, contrasting sharply with the devastating history the site holds. It's a place of remembrance, honoring the bravery and loss that shaped history.

As we pass by Iolani Palace, take in the grandeur of this iconic landmark, the only royal palace in the United States. Once the residence of Hawaii's last reigning monarchs, the palace stands as a symbol of the Kingdom of Hawaii’s rich history. While we won’t stop here, you'll still have the chance to glimpse its stunning architecture and learn about its significance in Hawaii's royal past as we continue our journey through historic downtown Honolulu.

As we pass by the iconic King Kamehameha Statue, famously featured in the opening scenes of the Hawaii 5-0 TV series, you'll have a chance to admire the towering figure of King Kamehameha I. Standing proudly in front of the historic Aliʻiōlani Hale, this statue honors the monarch who united the Hawaiian Islands. Though we won’t stop, you’ll get a great view of this beloved landmark and hear stories about its role in both Hawaiian history and pop culture.