Excursion Hawaii’s royal history tour at Honolulu

Explore the royal history of Hawaii during this scenic and informative, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Honolulu, Nu'uanu Valley, Tropical Rainforest, Pali Lookout

Depart the pier for the scenic drive into the lush Nu'uanu Valley and through a tropical rainforest to the world-renowned Pali Lookout, your first stop on this unforgettable journey to the see the crowned jewels of this thousand-year-old, former sovereign nation. The Nu'uanu Pali was the site of the Battle of Nu'uanu, one of the most important battles in Hawaiian history, when King Kamehameha I conquered the island of Oahu and brought it under his rule.

Tree-Tunnel, Royal Mausoleum, Hawaiian Mission Houses

After a photo stop here, re-board your coach and drive through a spectacular tree-tunnel to Hawaii's sacred Mauna 'Ala (Royal Mausoleum), the final resting place of six of the kingdom's last eight ruling monarchs. Royal history would not be complete without understanding the role Christian missionaries played in shaping the islands. Transfer to the Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site & Archives (HMH) for a guided tour of three restored houses, two of which are the oldest houses in Hawaii. Along the way, learn about the research archives which provide a unique glimpse into 19th-century Hawaii, both on-site and online. HMH was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965.

Kawaiahao Church, King Kamehameha Statue, Iolani Palace

Next, a short walk brings you to the Kawaiahao Church and King Kamehameha Statue. After photo stops here, proceed on-foot for the highlight of your tour, a self-guided visit inside a true Hawaiian treasure, the Iolani Palace. The only royal palace in the United States, it was the official residence of the Hawaiian Kingdom's last two monarchs; King Kalakaua, who built the palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Lili'uokalani. Before leaving, you can browse the gift shoppe for a memento of your visit. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Honolulu, Pali Lookout, Royal Mausoleum, Hawaiian Mission Houses, Kawaiahao Church, King Kamehameha Statue, Iolani Palace

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.5 miles (about 0.8 kilometres), at times over uneven, natural, and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the bus, at least 100 steps at the sites visited, and tight stairwells inside the Hawaiian Mission Houses. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, bottled water, and US Dollars or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Proper attire is required to enter the Iolani Palace; bathing suits, profane t-shirts, and revealing clothing are not permitted. Guests must be at least for years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Flash photography, videotaping, audio recording, and tripods with extended lenses are not permitted inside the Iolani Palace. The Iolani Palace and Hawaiian Mission Houses are closed on Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays and this stop will be replaced with a visit to the Bishop Museum. The tour sequence may vary.