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    Diamond Head State Monument

    4.5 (2.2k reviews)
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    Updated 2 months ago

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    Sonia S.

    Good little hike. Not Necessarily paved, but more like rock. Potentially slippery when wet. Plenty of stairs leading into a narrow, dark tunnel. If youre claustrophobic, might be a little rough. More stairs to get to the tippy top but a relatively easy hike for an experienced hiker. Nice views at the top.

    Diamond Head Lighthouse
    Jeremy S.

    According to a brochure I received, Lē'ahi (Diamond Head) is a tuff cone that is believed to have been formed about 300,000 years ago from a single, brief eruption. Long before, the creation of O'ahu began around 2.5 to 4 million years ago with volcanic eruptions from three volcanoes. Diamond Head derives its name from early western traders who mistook calcite crystals on the crater for diamonds. It's a 0.8-mile one-way hike to the summit. We spent two hours round-trip and took a lot of pictures. The hike is mostly uneven and a little steep, but there are handrails if needed. You can see many sweeping views, including the lush crater interior and the southeastern O'ahu coastline. Luckily, it wasn't too crowded when I visited, so I had enough space and time to savor the beautiful views. It was very windy when we reached the summit, and I had to ensure my cap didn't fly out. While hiking in February, it was warm but not too hot. Thankfully, the hike was neither tiring nor long. Non-resident visitors must have a reservation to enter Diamond Head, and it's easy to book online.

    Inside Diamond Head crater
    Rae W.

    Diamond head trail is a short steep hike from inside the crater floor up to the crater ridge. The 360 views from the top are gorgeous. The first portion of the hike is on a paved pathway, followed by a well groomed rock pathway. After the first lookout, will be the first set of steps followed by a low lit tunnel. After the tunnel you have a choice, right to go up the 99 steps and the spiral staircase or left to the landing followed by a gentler incline and then steps. You can tackle both from either direction as it is a loop. It's a total of 1.6 miles roundtrip and a great hike to start the day. Locals don't need a reservation with ID, but visitors do. It's a popular hike, so expect alot of people unless it's midweek or low season for visitors.

    Ben A.

    Mrs. Picante and I visited Diamond Head during our recent visit to Honolulu/Waikiki, and it was one of the highlights of our trip. Once we realized that our hotel was only about three miles from Diamond Head (and since we didn't have a rental car), we decided to walk from our hotel to the State Monument. We made reservations and paid a day or two before our trip, and set out around 8 AM on our walk across Honolulu. In the end, that turned out to be one of the best decisions we made during our trip. Along the way, we saw all the things that make Honolulu wonderful and terrible: beautiful birds and plants growing alongside the Honolulu Zoo; a homeless guy literally smoking crystal outside an elementary school; a beautiful young couple in their wedding finery taking pictures with a photographer between rain showers... it was all the good stuff that you miss when you take an Uber. The walk to the entrance to Diamond Head was, indeed, uphill. This turned out to be a theme for the day (did I mention it was uphill?) As we gained altitude outside the park, we got some great views of the Oahu coastline to the north. We turned into the long tunnel carved right through the side of the crater. Inside, the climate and the plants were more arid than I thought they would be. The dry grass broken up by the occasional plumeria tree or ginger planting framed the jagged crater edge above, cut sharply against the cerulean sky. We made a brief stop at a small gift shop to grab a sticker, then started up the paved pathway, noticing people far up the side. Step by step, we made our way along the path with lots of company. The path was steep in places, and plenty of folks were taking their time to catch their breath. All the hard work of the uphill hike was worth it at the top-- incredible views of the Waikiki coastline. The walk back helped us build a healthy appetite, and we ended up at Lulu's Cafe for like the third or fourth time of the trip. I earned that Loco Moco and craft beer.

    Annie W.

    We made a reservation for 8:00 to walk the Diamond Head trail and it was a great morning workout. There were parts that were steeper and more difficult, but I saw lots of fit people doing it with ease (not me, of course!). Even at 8 it got really hot at times, so if you can manage to get here by 6, you'd be better off. Be sure to have close-toed shoes and bring water! A hiking stick might help as well because there were lots of uneven areas. The staircases almost did me in... over 90 steps! Once you get to the top, though, there's a nice view and the bunker is nice and cool! The only negative part of this experience was that it was very crowded. I guess it's one of the major activities for visitors to Oahu, so there's no getting around it!

    Victoria P.

    This view is absolutely PHENOMENAL!! Some things that were helpful for me and my party: 1) Make a reservation so you have a set time and day to return. 2) Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen and good shoes 3) There is an option to hike down a semi-steep staircase. Would not recommend for elderly or people scared of heights I cannot express how beautiful this view is! The photos do not do it justice. If you have a chance to do this hike, please do!

    Erich L.

    A top sight in Oahu. You have to make reservations ahead of time online to get parking for entry. They also have a shuttle bus from the bottom of the hill. I recommend driving if pay. It's quite an uphill and uneven hike so make sure you have good walking shoes. There is a small visitor center that's just a booth with some information and souvenirs. There are some food trucks and one is dole so you can try a dole whip if you can't make it out to the dole plantation. There are some amazing views of the city and coast from the top.

    Karlo G.

    This hike is worth the early wake up call. The views at the top are amazing especially during sunrise. My husband and I decided to hike right when the park opened, which was at 6:00 AM. We did secure our block time reservation on the Division of State Parks website. This is required for non-residents and there is an assigned time for the visit. Parking fee is $10.00 per vehicle and entry fee is $5.00 per person. Make sure to arrive within the first 30 minutes of the reservation period. The walk to the top is moderate. Most of the pathways are paved and some have stairs. There are some steep incline and switchbacks. There were a few times we slowed down and carefully maneuver around other hikers. The hike took us through a tight tunnel and exited facing the ocean. The last stairway to the top looked daunting but was easier than I expected. Despite the early morning appointment, we still encountered a huge crowd at the top. There was a few photo ops and we decided to head down to try and beat the crowd. The total hiking distance is 1.6 miles roundtrip and elevation is over 500ft. I recommend bring water and taking breaks during the ascent. The descent was quick.

    Beautiful sunrise
    Katherine A.

    Climbing Diamond Head is a must-do if you are healthy enough. I climbed again this morning. I like to get 6:00 am reservations because the climb is cooler and I get great sunrise views. Diamond Head is a Hawai'i State Park. I had to make reservations five days prior to get the 6:00 time slot with parking. Parking is $10 for 2 hours and the entrance fee is $5/person for non Hawaiian residents. Reservations can be made from the Park's web page. It takes about 25 minutes to hike from the parking lot to the top (if you don't make a lot of stops). I only carry my phone (camera), but water might be helpful. Good sneakers are a must, especially if it has rained. It was dry today when I climbed. There was a friendly crowd making the hike, today. The path gets uneven about halfway up. But the views are magnificent - the ocean, Honolulu and the mountains. Breath taking beauty as far as the eye can see. Plaques describe the geology of the Diamond Head tuff cone. The structure has importance to early Hawaiians and during the 20th century as a look out post during times of war. War look out post can be seen on the trail. We saw a mongoose on our journey back down, which is a heck of a lot easier than on the way up! There is a Visitor's Center with gift shop and rest room facilities near the entrance to the trail. You can reward yourself after the trek with a pineapple whip or other treat from several food trucks near the trail. I think the hike would be difficult with small children. There are picnic tables if you bring snacks.

    Rachel K.

    Is this something I'd do all the time, no. Was it worth hiking to the top as part of my first visit to Honolulu, absolutely! We did our research before heading here, and heard some experiences from friends as well- some that almost made us second-guess going at all. We reserved a 6am permit online for right when the park opened, and right as the sun was starting to rise on this late September morning. We drove our car, and paid a little extra to park there, but plenty of people were walking up or getting dropped off. I recommend wearing good shoes, comfortable clothes and bringing plenty of water. As you set off the incline immediately becomes noticeable. Pace yourself and don't feel embarrassed taking breaks as needed- just don't get in the way of others, you'll see where the natural stopping points are on the way up. We were huffing and puffing as we made our way up the steep paths, and then the sights completely took our breath away as we watched the sunrise from the mountain. The 6am climb is so worth it for the views (and the cooler temperature). We stopped quite a few times for photos, and were equally happy to catch our breath and take some sips of water. Once you get to the yellow stairs prepare yourself- like make sure you're good- because you go from the stairs to a tunnel through the mountain that is also on an incline. I'll admit I started feel claustrophobic in the tunnel, but reminded myself to breath and we were out relatively quickly. From here you have the choice to punish yourself and go up another SUPER STEEP set of stairs or go around a less painful way that happens to have great views (we chose the nicer way) there will be a few more chances for photos before you hit the very top. When we reached the summit we were greeted with an incredible view complete with a gian rainbow over the city. It was wonderful. We hung out up top for a while and snapped a bunch of photos and then headed back down. While returning is a lot easier, make sure to watch your footing- it's pretty uneven and you don't want to triwst your ankle. We ended up getting back to our car about 1.5 hours from the start including plenty of stops for photos.

    Angel W.

    One of the most amazing and memorable parts of our trip! You start your climb from inside the crater and work your way up to the top. I'd say it's a moderately difficult hike due to the elevation, but it's only 1.6 miles round trip so not too bad. The views are gorgeous and definitely worth the walk. We also saw some beautiful birds and a mongoose toward the beginning/end of the hike. Make sure to make a reservation and wear good shoes. I'd recommend going earlier in the day to escape the heat and hopefully avoid some of the crowds.

    The crater view
    Svetlana S.

    We go every time we visit Oahu. This is one of those places that is loved by locals and tourists equaly. Yes, make sure you reserve you spot on the website - they do check, and slots fill out pretty quickly. We have discovered that even during non-tourist seasons (like Jan-Febr) you need to book at least 2-3 days ahead. The hike is fairly easy - well paved and has some stairs. You won't be able to take a stroller - don't even try. Takes about 30-40 minutes to hike up and about 20-25 to get down. Most popular for sunrises and sunsets, but definitely check the weather to make sure you will get a view. Most people pay attention to the oceanside and the city, but the crater view is just as stunning. Enjoy!

    Jodi T.

    8am time slot is already too hot. Also, you need to be fit to do this hike (I am not fit enough lol) Pros: Good hike until the peak Lovely views Most people are very nice Hello Kitty exclusive merch Places to take break It's very beautiful Cons: TOO MANY PEOPLE, even with the registration system Limited parking You only get 2 hours to complete the hike The lines at the top to take photos RUDE OLD COUPLE CUTTING THE LINE (Excuse you but everyone all did the same difficult hike and deserve to enjoy the view too! Nothing you can say could justify your selfish behavior) Some parts are difficult to walk (extremely uneven paths, very steep stairs)

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    Diamond Head State Monument Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Diamond Head State Monument

    Do you need reservation?

    Yes. They limit the number of people allowed in the park and so a reservation is required for both parking and entry for visitors. If you are a resident of Hawaii a… Read more

    Where do I make the reservation?

    https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/

    Is this Fort Ruger trail open?

    Yes it is always open. This trail is located outside of Diamond head and goes along the perimeter of the volcano, facing Kapiolani community college.

    Is this hike stroller friendly?

    I wouldn't say so. There's a small concrete portion at the bottom you could go up and back but the majority is unpaved, hills, gravel, steps, etc.

    Trying to make the sunrise but gates don't open till 6. How do I get in before then?

    Go there in October when the sunrise is after 6:30am.

    When on a weekday morning does the parking lot get full? Will it be hard to get parking at 9am on a Friday?

    There's always people come and go, you should be fine getting a parking. The whole trial takes only about an hour and half mins :) hopefully this helps

    Do you have yo pay to get in? Parking?

    Yes. But there is an area before where you can park but there is a small walk in fee

    How long is the hike from start to finish? How many minutes does it take?

    It'll take you around 45 minutes round trip. But if you want to take a casual hike and enjoy the scenery as well as takes pictures up there, then expect it to be 1.5 hr… Read more

    Is this kid friendly for 2 and 5 year old? Thank you everyone for the responses! Much love Yelp…

    This is not a stroller capable walk, you will most certainly need to carry your 2yo most of the way. There are many stairs, as well as a number of very uneven walking surfaces. If your 5yo is strong and adventurous, they will LOVE this trek since it… Read more

    Are leashed dogs allowed on this hike/trail?

    Hello Jessica, As far as i know, there are no pets allowed except for service dogs.

    Is this hike good for a Kids/12yr old?

    Is your 12 y/o normally physically active? The "hike" into the crater isn't tough BUT be aware if you're going to hike to the summit. Lots of stairs or you can take the newer pathways up. Personally, I've had bilateral knee surgery several years… Read more

    What are the hours for the trail?

    I know they stop letting people in at 4:30pm and the gates close at 6pm.

    How much does it cost? I was wondering should I go through trip advisor and pay 35 per person

    That's a rate tour companies typically charge with transportation. Admission to the trail and park cost $1. I believe parking is $5. I usuallly take public transportation because multiple bus lines stop there because of the community college across… Read more

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    Review Highlights - Diamond Head State Monument

    Reservations are necessary so make sure you secure those prior to going (I've heard they can turn you away).

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    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    4.8(172 reviews)
    3.7 mi

    Visiting Pu'u Ualaka's State Park is on my top ten favorite things to do in Honolulu. The Park…read moreoffers spectacular views of the entire Southside of the Island. I travelled up Mount Tantalus to the Park yesterday with my daughter. We travelled through beautiful dense forest at the Park entrance. At the highest overlook, we could see everything and more from Diamond Head out to (and beyond) the airport. We could see all of Honolulu. I felt like we were on top of the world! Plaques offer fascinating overviews of the history and geology of the landmarks below. We could even see inside the famous tuff cone, Punch Bowl! Nearby is the first macadamia nut orchard in Hawaii. The overviews are paved with railings and easily accessible. The Park offers picnic areas with a couple pavilions and picnic tables. There is a charge for non-resident parking of $7 that can be paid electronically. Resident parking is free. Parking is limited, but there are several parking areas. We had no trouble finding parking mid week. Warning signs tell guest not to leave valuables in the car. Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park is only two miles from downtown Honolulu (maybe a couple more miles to the top). The Park is an easy 5 star and worth a visit.

    There is a lookout in this park that provides a panoramic view of Honolulu and Waikiki. The view is…read moregorgeous. Also a perfect place to watch sunset. One thing to note is that it does get really windy here. There are two parking lots available near this lookout. The one right next to the lookout is very small. It only holds about a dozen cars. The safer bet is to park at the slightly further parking lot with only a five minute walk to the Vista point.

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    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

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    Lulumahu Falls

    Lulumahu Falls

    4.5(360 reviews)
    6.3 mi

    A beautiful day for a hike! Every time I do this hike it's a little different. Today the waterfall…read morewas cold and bracing and there were a lot of people hiking the falls. We started out around 8:45 AM and by the time we reached the waterfall, it was getting full of families and pairs of hikers. I recommend go early to skip the crowds. The hike itself isn't too technical and there are only a few places where you have to step up high over a rock or scramble through a stream.

    Here are clear and concise directions for this hike!!…read more Main parking off Pali hwy. Entrance is easily visible. You'll enter the bamboo forest. Within the first 50 feet it will split into a Y trail, take the left path. If you go straight you'll likely end up in the bamboo section for 20-40 mins. If you do not exit the bamboo area within 10 mins, you're lost. You'll exit the bamboo area through a lifted/broken section of the fence. Walk uphill onto the paved pathway. This will open onto a wide valley. You'll pass a large bridge structure. Follow that till road till you get to the supply shed structures. Look for a small concrete stairway in the trees. Stay left mostly, and look for pink ribbons. Pass the old fenced off pool looking area. Once you hit the rock/mud path (approx 10 mins) there's a hard right turn down into the main river area. A large tree has fallen so you'll need to spot the ribbons, and climb over this tree. If you pass this fallen tree by mistake, the trail will seem oddly difficult and dense. You'll need to turn around. Walk until you see the man made rock wall with a small waterfall, and walk across this to the other side. Follow the ribbons up the path and you'll need to cross the river 3-5 more times after this. Keep looking for clear open paths. There's two ways you can continue after that point so don't worry. (One way is just more difficult) Before the waterfall there's a larger section of rocks you'll have to climb over. Main takeaways: You will have to walk across slippery rocks several times. It is muddy. It's not that difficult but can be dangerous at some parts. If you don't see a pink/orange ribbon for more than 5-10 mins at any time, you are likely lost.

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    Lulumahu Falls
    Lulumahu Falls
    Lulumahu Falls - Crossing through the stream - hopping on the rocks

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    Crossing through the stream - hopping on the rocks

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Bench where you can relax!

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

    4.3(38 reviews)
    3.8 mi

    Did this amazing hike again starting at a different location with an alteration due to a closure of…read moreone section of the trail. I love the combination of this trails because the variety of beautiful views, landscapes, type of surfaces. Dense lush rainforest to dryer areas with a variety of foliage. Started at the Makiki Arboretum trail, taking the loop to the right on the Maunalaha Trail. This section will get the blood flowing as you climb upward over a very rooted trail. Once you arrive at an area with metal benches there is an intersection of multiple trails. Take Makiki Valley Trail to the Right. After a short hike take the Moleka Trail to the Left. The Moleka trail becomes the Manoa Cliff trail which you stay on for a number of miles. If you struggle with narrow trails with drop offs this section may not be for you. There are beautiful views of Manoa Valley from the trail. Some sections of this trail can be muddy. In the past Hike once you go through the gate the Manoa Cliff trail takes a sharp turn to Left at Intersection of other trails. In our case there was a recent landslide and there was a warning sign not continue on the Manoa Cliff Trail. No problem we took Pauoa Flats Trail until we reached Kalawahine Trail and took a Left on it. Take this trail until you reach a paved road, take a right down the road until you see the next trailhead, Nahuina Trail which zig zags its way down. When you come to Makiki Valley trail go left. When you reach Kanealole take it to your right. This trail will take you back to trail you started on. Since there are so many different trails to do this loop I suggest using Alltrails download. We clocked over 10 miles. I'd rate it as intermediate. Bring plenty of water, I carry crampons in case there are muddy slippery areas. Would not do if heavy rain or strong winds expected.

    Afternoon hike at Manoa Cliff, Kalawahine, and Makiki Valley Loop…read more Great trail, awesome views. Best if you can download the map as you loose service in several areas of the trail. My trail map also showed I hiked 7.3 miles and my husband stated 6.4, but either way it is long. Just be ready for a good long hike. We started in the rain so yes mud was around, and yes places were pretty slippery. But all in all not too bad to get around. Just wear good hiking shoes. Conditions: bugs, muddy, easy parking, great views, dog friendly, well maintained, wild flowers

    Photos
    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Son son and mommy

    Son son and mommy

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Mommy and son son

    Mommy and son son

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

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    Diamond Head State Monument - parks - Updated May 2026

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