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Along with Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head State Monument is arguably the premier reason to visit Honolulu over any of the other seven islands in Hawaii. The views are breathtaking, the ambiance is abundantly peaceful, and due to the sheer scope of the hike, hiking Diamond Head is a superb way to get your steps in for the day without question. Even though many locals suggested my brother and I try hiking Diamond Head closer to the sun rising or setting, we still had a blast hiking here in the afternoon (12 PM - 1:45 PM) since it wasn't particularly packed during our hike. That said, I would strongly advise planning in advance because everyone wants to check it out, and reservations on the official website do fill up quickly. I generally hike every Sunday morning, so Diamond Head was not a particularly challenging hike to me at all, but I would still recommend bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, a sun hat, and possibly a portable fan if cardio-based workout aren't in your wheelhouse. You absolutely will sweat and pant basically as soon as you get started on the trail, so you'll want to ensure you have the proper hiking gear and equipment to actually enjoy the trail. Be prepared to stop regularly as there are many amazing photo opportunities on Diamond Head scattered throughout the entire hike. Pace yourself once you get here, and you'll enjoy what is arguably one of the most beautiful hikes in the world.
The Diamond Head State Monument hike is an absolute must when visiting Oahu! It features a 1.6 to 1.8 mile hike (round trip). I would consider this a more moderate hike (steep stairs, and uneven footing at the top). Not to mention a flight of 99 stairs (but that's optional). I made a reso for 4pm. It was the perfect time of day to go with the family (not too hot and a nice cool breeze). Arriving early also helps avoid the midday heat and heavy crowds. I definitely recommend wearing sturdy walking shoes (no flip-flops), bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen, as there is almost no shade on the trail. For a non-resident the cost to visit is $5 per person (children 3 and under are free). And parking is $10 per vehicle. It's totally worth it! The view points are absolutely spectacular. And the 360 degree view at the summit is breathtaking! For some it can be a bit strenuous. Definitely take your time. Most people reach the summit and hike down within 2 hours.
We arrived at the location at 5:00 AM to catch the sunrise. A quick pro tip: make sure your GPS directs you to the parking lot instead of the trail itself, as it originally led us to a neighborhood right in front of the trailhead. Even at that early hour, there was already a crowd of people heading up. We started with flashlights, but within about 30 minutes, it was light enough to see without them. There are multiple points throughout the hike with small openings off the steps where you can sit on rocks or stand to catch your breath. This is a very family friendly trail. We traveled with our 8 year old and made it up and down within two hours, using the 25 trail markers to keep him motivated all the way to the top. For anyone nervous about heights, there is a helpful bypass for the middle section where the track sits just a foot or two off the ground. Avoiding people on the way down wasn't too bad for us, though I can definitely see it being a bit difficult if the trail gets extremely crowded. Ultimately, the view at the top is breathtaking and completely worth the hike.
For a five bucks entry fee, this is an awesome deal. When you arrive you show your ticket as you enter the parking lot. There are banos, a souvenir area, and a refreshment stand if you forgot your water. It is a challenging hike to the summit, and it will give you a good cardio workout. I did see a few folks who were really hurting or just turning around. The path is mostly uneven rock with some pretty intense stair sections. The round trip is under 2 miles; it took me about 30 - 45 minutes, including photo stops. When you finally reach the top, be sure to go inside the pill box; from here, you can see almost beyond the horizon. Imagine being on the lookout for enemy ships and planes from here! The breathtaking views overlook the city, beach, ocean, and all the way toward the North Shore. It's awesome to see all the different shades of blue ocean water. At the top, you will see the entire Diamonhead crater. Take plenty of PIcs!!! Be sure to bring water, and if it is a cool day, it will be breezy and really cool at the top. Pro tip: If you are ridesharing, your drop off and pickup is at the parking lot.
No reservation needed for local residents. I visited Diamond Head State Monument on a Sunday morning and the parking lot was packed. I drove up to the guard shack, showed my ID and was able to park in the open lot. I recommend carpooling as parking is limited. I hadn't hiked Diamond Head in 10 years, so I forgot how strenuous it can be. I wore comfortable athletic sneakers, a large sun hat and brought a 24 oz water bottle with me. There's little to no shade for most of the hike. Certain parts of the hike are steep and uneven. Definitely take your time and don't feel rushed. There's enough room for people to go around you, if needed. I saw some elementary kids zip past me, so even younger kids can do it. There is a steep stairwell and a dark tunnel that leads to the top. Once I got to the lookout, it was so crowded. It was hard to take photos and gather with my friends. I felt so claustrophobic. After that, I climbed back down. When I got to the end of the hike, I went to the gift shop kiosk. There's a bunch of Sanrio exclusive merch that I picked up for my friends. I thought that was the best reward for my hike.
Diamond head is synonymous with Waikiki and really all of Hawaii so a visit to the crater and top of the lookout is a must stop. The hike itself is more like a walk uphill. If you are in even average shape this should be no problem. It takes about 20 minutes each way with steps at the end. If you come at a busy time you will need to wait for slower people in some sections as it is hard to pass. The view from up top is amazing and well worth it.
Amazing little area (views). Keep in mind that place is always busy so make sure you made a reservation online for the visit weeks before you go if not further out. You have to be there within the first 30 minutes of your reservation and then you only get 2 hours to hike. Believe me you won't spend more than 2 hours there between the crowds and the heat. So the earlier in the morning you can make your reservation you'll be much better off! I traveled late and only carried one bottle of water and I was fine (50 yoa, physical but I don't work out or anything). Definitely need to pace yourself, especially if you're prone to heat exhaustion. Don't let the nice weather fool you cause it does get very hot with little breeze and lots of steep terrain. If you're pron to having bad balance or twisting your ankle a lot, I would not do this hike. If you have a stroller or needle a walker, you definitely should not be doing this hike. Views are amazing at the end of the hike, as long as it's not too busy. If it's busy, be prepared to stand in line to get your Kodak moments.
One of the most stunning hikes in Oahu! Took about 45 min or less to get to the top and is about beginner to medium level hike with certain parts a bit rocky to get over. The views of Diamond Head crater once at the top are amazing! We booked the parking and entry two weeks in advance for 10am-12pm slot and arrived on time with plenty of parking. They have a small visitor center with souvenirs such as hello kitty and Pochaco along with magnets and stickers. There are tables in the grass to rest and picnic at too. On the Saturday we went, there were two food trucks in the side area!
Vacationed in Hawaii (4/29-4/3 2026) so of course we had to hit up the beautiful island trails! Diamond Head was on our list so we booked it in advance since you need to make reservations. We did it all through Groupon to get picked up from our hotel and dropped off as well. The trail is definitely a popular hot spot for tourists but we didn't mind the crowd. We did an early one to see the Sun rise, though by the time we got there the sun was out already. Totally okay. Water was provided by our tour guide. He gave us some history on Diamond Head and then dropped us off and gave us 2 hours to explore before getting picked up. Thank you Jonah from Fun Hawaii Group! Aaaand we were on our way! Paths were clean and clear of overgrown plants for the most part. My wife and l hike regularly so we didn't feel the hike was bad at all. Weather was perfect (it rained on us a bjt too which was unexpected but fun) and it wasn't a long hike either. There are steps involved which we enjoyed for the added cardio! When we made it to the top it was breathtaking! The views of the ocean and the mountains were beautiful! Still find myself looking at photos. It was truly magical. We were in paradise!
Beautiful place to hike!! Definitely a bit more beginner friendly which was preferred due to the vast variety of athletic difference amongst our group members. It definitely got pretty busy so I would recommend going first thing in the morning if that is feasible. Gorgeous views and very well maintained area. I would definitely go back next time I'm in Hawaii!
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.
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!
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.
7 days ago
If you love a good hike and even better views, then Diamond Head State park is for you! This amazing state park is just a couple of minutes from Waikiki and it is a must for locals and visitors alike. I have so many lessons learned from my time visiting so here are my main tips: - Make a reservation! We decided to wing it and go on a random weekday around 4pm in July and it was HOT. There's not a lot of shade during your hike and barely any wind, so it can be really hard on the body. I definitely recommend getting a morning reservation so you can enjoy the hike. - If you are driving, you can park before the tunnel and the parking is much cheaper. I believe is probably a 5min walk to cross the tunnel, plus it can be a little cool experience before your hike. - Bring water!!! I saw so many people with no water that just ended up giving up halfway through the hike. Make sure to stay hydrated. - If you are brining kids, I think this hike is for kids 5+. If you have babies or smaller kids that are still learning to walk. This is not the place for them. It can be very dangerous for babies and toddlers. Last but not least, don't forget to enjoy the view and take a lot of pictures once you are at the top! read more
18 days ago
This was such a beautiful hike! We bought our entrance tickets for 7 am! I would always recommend you booking it in advance (especially for weekends). If you're not renting a car, you can take the bus from Waikiki and then walk the way up the hill to the entrance (about 20 mins) OR you can uber to entrance. We uber there and bus back to Waikiki (this bus stop was kinda far from Diamond head lol). The views are soooo nice! You are basically just hiking uphill the entire time. There can be a lot of people and some narrow ground, but easy to just share the path! Small gift booth in the front near the restrooms! No restrooms during the hike up! It was a great hike!! Super moderate, not challenging. Bring sunscreen!! read more
We made a reservation to come to Diamond Head for 7AM, paid advance online. They checked tickets when we arrived. Lovely area, and nice hike and somewhat steep walk up for beautiful views. Unfortunately we saw some people slip and fall a bit as it was sprinkling the day we went. A lot of people were struggling and were out of breath as well. It was a great workout hiking up Diamond Head. I took the opened steep stairs way up, got to the dark areas and the stairs there were really rusty and got on my skin, but it was pretty fun. I then took the scenic route down and experienced the views one more time. If I go back here, I'll jog it cause why not :) read more
Along with Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head State Monument is arguably the premier reason to visit Honolulu over any of the other seven islands in Hawaii. The views are breathtaking, the ambiance is abundantly peaceful, and due to the sheer scope of the hike, hiking Diamond Head is a superb way to get your steps in for the day without question. Even though many locals suggested my brother and I try hiking Diamond Head closer to the sun rising or setting, we still had a blast hiking here in the afternoon (12 PM - 1:45 PM) since it wasn't particularly packed during our hike. That said, I would strongly advise planning in advance because everyone wants to check it out, and reservations on the official website do fill up quickly. I generally hike every Sunday morning, so Diamond Head was not a particularly challenging hike to me at all, but I would still recommend bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, a sun hat, and possibly a portable fan if cardio-based workout aren't in your wheelhouse. You absolutely will sweat and pant basically as soon as you get started on the trail, so you'll want to ensure you have the proper hiking gear and equipment to actually enjoy the trail. Be prepared to stop regularly as there are many amazing photo opportunities on Diamond Head scattered throughout the entire hike. Pace yourself once you get here, and you'll enjoy what is arguably one of the most beautiful hikes in the world. read more
2 months ago
The Diamond Head State Monument hike is an absolute must when visiting Oahu! It features a 1.6 to 1.8 mile hike (round trip). I would consider this a more moderate hike (steep stairs, and uneven footing at the top). Not to mention a flight of 99 stairs (but that's optional). I made a reso for 4pm. It was the perfect time of day to go with the family (not too hot and a nice cool breeze). Arriving early also helps avoid the midday heat and heavy crowds. I definitely recommend wearing sturdy walking shoes (no flip-flops), bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen, as there is almost no shade on the trail. For a non-resident the cost to visit is $5 per person (children 3 and under are free). And parking is $10 per vehicle. It's totally worth it! The view points are absolutely spectacular. And the 360 degree view at the summit is breathtaking! For some it can be a bit strenuous. Definitely take your time. Most people reach the summit and hike down within 2 hours. read more
We arrived at the location at 5:00 AM to catch the sunrise. A quick pro tip: make sure your GPS directs you to the parking lot instead of the trail itself, as it originally led us to a neighborhood right in front of the trailhead. Even at that early hour, there was already a crowd of people heading up. We started with flashlights, but within about 30 minutes, it was light enough to see without them. There are multiple points throughout the hike with small openings off the steps where you can sit on rocks or stand to catch your breath. This is a very family friendly trail. We traveled with our 8 year old and made it up and down within two hours, using the 25 trail markers to keep him motivated all the way to the top. For anyone nervous about heights, there is a helpful bypass for the middle section where the track sits just a foot or two off the ground. Avoiding people on the way down wasn't too bad for us, though I can definitely see it being a bit difficult if the trail gets extremely crowded. Ultimately, the view at the top is breathtaking and completely worth the hike. read more
For a five bucks entry fee, this is an awesome deal. When you arrive you show your ticket as you enter the parking lot. There are banos, a souvenir area, and a refreshment stand if you forgot your water. It is a challenging hike to the summit, and it will give you a good cardio workout. I did see a few folks who were really hurting or just turning around. The path is mostly uneven rock with some pretty intense stair sections. The round trip is under 2 miles; it took me about 30 - 45 minutes, including photo stops. When you finally reach the top, be sure to go inside the pill box; from here, you can see almost beyond the horizon. Imagine being on the lookout for enemy ships and planes from here! The breathtaking views overlook the city, beach, ocean, and all the way toward the North Shore. It's awesome to see all the different shades of blue ocean water. At the top, you will see the entire Diamonhead crater. Take plenty of PIcs!!! Be sure to bring water, and if it is a cool day, it will be breezy and really cool at the top. Pro tip: If you are ridesharing, your drop off and pickup is at the parking lot. read more
No reservation needed for local residents. I visited Diamond Head State Monument on a Sunday morning and the parking lot was packed. I drove up to the guard shack, showed my ID and was able to park in the open lot. I recommend carpooling as parking is limited. I hadn't hiked Diamond Head in 10 years, so I forgot how strenuous it can be. I wore comfortable athletic sneakers, a large sun hat and brought a 24 oz water bottle with me. There's little to no shade for most of the hike. Certain parts of the hike are steep and uneven. Definitely take your time and don't feel rushed. There's enough room for people to go around you, if needed. I saw some elementary kids zip past me, so even younger kids can do it. There is a steep stairwell and a dark tunnel that leads to the top. Once I got to the lookout, it was so crowded. It was hard to take photos and gather with my friends. I felt so claustrophobic. After that, I climbed back down. When I got to the end of the hike, I went to the gift shop kiosk. There's a bunch of Sanrio exclusive merch that I picked up for my friends. I thought that was the best reward for my hike. read more
Diamond head is synonymous with Waikiki and really all of Hawaii so a visit to the crater and top of the lookout is a must stop. The hike itself is more like a walk uphill. If you are in even average shape this should be no problem. It takes about 20 minutes each way with steps at the end. If you come at a busy time you will need to wait for slower people in some sections as it is hard to pass. The view from up top is amazing and well worth it. read more
Amazing little area (views). Keep in mind that place is always busy so make sure you made a reservation online for the visit weeks before you go if not further out. You have to be there within the first 30 minutes of your reservation and then you only get 2 hours to hike. Believe me you won't spend more than 2 hours there between the crowds and the heat. So the earlier in the morning you can make your reservation you'll be much better off! I traveled late and only carried one bottle of water and I was fine (50 yoa, physical but I don't work out or anything). Definitely need to pace yourself, especially if you're prone to heat exhaustion. Don't let the nice weather fool you cause it does get very hot with little breeze and lots of steep terrain. If you're pron to having bad balance or twisting your ankle a lot, I would not do this hike. If you have a stroller or needle a walker, you definitely should not be doing this hike. Views are amazing at the end of the hike, as long as it's not too busy. If it's busy, be prepared to stand in line to get your Kodak moments. read more
3 months ago
6 months ago
One of the most stunning hikes in Oahu! Took about 45 min or less to get to the top and is about beginner to medium level hike with certain parts a bit rocky to get over. The views of Diamond Head crater once at the top are amazing! We booked the parking and entry two weeks in advance for 10am-12pm slot and arrived on time with plenty of parking. They have a small visitor center with souvenirs such as hello kitty and Pochaco along with magnets and stickers. There are tables in the grass to rest and picnic at too. On the Saturday we went, there were two food trucks in the side area! read more
Vacationed in Hawaii (4/29-4/3 2026) so of course we had to hit up the beautiful island trails! Diamond Head was on our list so we booked it in advance since you need to make reservations. We did it all through Groupon to get picked up from our hotel and dropped off as well. The trail is definitely a popular hot spot for tourists but we didn't mind the crowd. We did an early one to see the Sun rise, though by the time we got there the sun was out already. Totally okay. Water was provided by our tour guide. He gave us some history on Diamond Head and then dropped us off and gave us 2 hours to explore before getting picked up. Thank you Jonah from Fun Hawaii Group! Aaaand we were on our way! Paths were clean and clear of overgrown plants for the most part. My wife and l hike regularly so we didn't feel the hike was bad at all. Weather was perfect (it rained on us a bjt too which was unexpected but fun) and it wasn't a long hike either. There are steps involved which we enjoyed for the added cardio! When we made it to the top it was breathtaking! The views of the ocean and the mountains were beautiful! Still find myself looking at photos. It was truly magical. We were in paradise! read more
3 months ago
Beautiful place to hike!! Definitely a bit more beginner friendly which was preferred due to the vast variety of athletic difference amongst our group members. It definitely got pretty busy so I would recommend going first thing in the morning if that is feasible. Gorgeous views and very well maintained area. I would definitely go back next time I'm in Hawaii! read more
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. read more
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! read more
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. read more
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. read more
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. read more
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. read more
1 year ago
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. read more
If you're a tourist then you have to reserve a 2 hour section of time to come here and hike it. We did the 8am to 10am time slot and really enjoyed it. We thought it would be much harder than it ended up being. It was strenuous but very short, it took about 30 minutes with stops. There was a good amount of birds including lots of Mynas, Blue-billed White-Terns, White-rumped Shamas, Common Waxbills, Red-crested Cardinals and more. The trail started to get really packed around 9am which made it slower and more cramped in the tighter areas. There is a shop at the base which has lots of Hello Kitty Items. The views were fantastic and I would highly recommend coming here. read more
This was such a beautiful hike to experience on a beautiful sunny day! Being in the middle of the crater was super cool as well! I will say, it was slightly more challenging than I anticipated. There are many portions with steep stairs and inclines. But, even with those, it is doable for all kinds of people. I would recommend wearing a hat and sunscreen cuz it is pretty hot. A little windy as well. The hike took about 30 minutes with a slow to moderate pace. That is including stopping and taking some pictures. When at the top, we took more pictures and then made our way back down. Overall, it was about an hour. read more
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. read more
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. read more
9 months ago
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! read more
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. read more
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) read more
Now they won't let you in without a reservation, no reservation means you can't park in the upper lot. The overflow park (1/4 mile down F from the entrance) only has perhaps 10 spots and always full. Then you need to go back down to the park entrance that has no parking. Hike is still nice, last 100 steps up the stairs takes you to the very top. Hike is ~a mile with 650 vertical feet and perhaps 10 switchbacks near the top. Great views, nice hike- 5 stars for hike, 1 star for the charges per person and parking and needed reservations (this part is new but you can do it online). read more
1 year ago
Expect crowds to come in at 5:45 am, before sunrise. I ended up meeting more people from SoCal, SF, and Sacramento, including a few locals. This was my first time hiking to the crater, and boy, I didn't expect a lot of steep stairs and a spiral staircase for a 2-mile round trip. This ain't fit for the big and tall since there were narrow spaces to access through the lookout and down the bunker. I even started panting hard halfway there as a small person trying to lose 10 lb of fat. That's what I got for sitting nearly the whole day at work for 3 years back in the Bay Area. Overall, it was rewarding because I got to see the panoramic view of East Oahu from Manoa to Makapu'u Lighthouse in Waimanalo by sunrise. So breathtaking, yet tiring. We finished the whole hike by 7 am in time for breakfast. I recommend hiking before 10 am to beat the crowd in the afternoon and the heat. Tip: Please reserve 30 days ahead on their website. Their entry and parking fees are separated between Hawaii residents and visitors. Residents have free access with a valid Hawaii ID, while visitors pay $10 for parking and $5 entry with their credit card. No cash. Wear the right shoes, hat, and bring a bottle of water with you. read more
This was my first hike in YEARS and wau I was humbled in the beginning LOL. This was a pretty easy hike -- just a bit steep. The humidity & sun did not help heh. We came on Saturday morning at 8AM and it was pretty busy already. The views at the top was absolutely stunning and made this hike 1000% worth it. When you're at the top you can see a beautiful view of Waikiki and it was dreamingly blue :') I'll def be back for Diamond Head sometime during my next visit. read more
A must-visit when traveling to Oahu and is for all levels. Enjoy the spectacular view of the ocean and island at the top of the mountain and be sure to book your reservation in advance. It's not too competitive to get a reservation but I recommend doing it as soon as possible. Reading that it's best to go in the morning before it's busy, that does make a lot of sense but we went in late afternoon and it wasn't busy at all. The hike wasn't too bad luckily it was a slightly cool and windy day. So maybe it's a move to go in the late afternoon before they close? When you arrive there's a Diamond Head sign and there is plenty of parking. There's bathrooms down below and you go on the main trail up where everyone is going. People are taking pictures of the steps via Yelp but you can just go around and not go up them, that's what we did lol The lookout spot gets crowded so be sure to share the spot with other people and help them out with their pictures! Have fun! read more
3 months ago
The most amazing hike ever, with the most gorgeous , panoramic & Pacific Ocean views of the beautiful Oahu, Hawaii!! Once you get to the top you'll realize how much it was worth it & that the hike was not that bad! We even saw some elderly make the hike with their hiking poles & family support with them! If my 18 y.o. daughter who has a fear of heights can make it to the top, you can do it also! The for of us women (ranging from 18-50 y.o) in this group who are not avid hikers, we're able to complete the hike round trip in under 2 hours in the middle of the afternoon!! The trek up this mountain is very family friendly & attainable!! You can definitely feel the spirit of Aloha at the top of this mountain!! read more
8 months ago
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! read more
My first review all things stand true except a few minor changes. I still think this is a must do hike because of the views and the relative easiness due to the paved portions and staircases. Speaking of stairs, there are approximately 200 of them! I counted this time! Parking used to be a fee but it's now free for locals with valid ID. It's recommended you make reservations and entrance fee is $5 per person. Other than that, there is limited signal inside the crater before your climb up to the top! read more
Haven't hiked in a long time but this is a must for me visiting this island. Everyone's told me it's short and easy but putting into consideration the heat and lack of shade it made the difficulty level higher. This hike reminded me of Mission Peak in Fremont. The views from the top were gorgeous! It is worth the effort! I'd do it again if and when I'm back on this island. read more
1 year ago
This was a must-do if you are able-bodied. It was incredibly rewarding to swim in Waikiki waters and look up to Lē'ahi and think "we were just there!" It will be hot, a little windy, and with very little shade. Prepare for that. It's steep with lots of stairs. We went with our kids and saw other kids on the trail, even in sandals. We also saw plenty of 70+ hikers. I think it's people with creaky knees who might struggle. But again, it's worth the efforts for the ocean view and sense of accomplishment. We took a public bus. Very easy, $3 each adult, $1.50 each kid. There are pricier shuttles, but barely anyone was on the bus. read more
9 months ago
Good beginner hike - a little incline and some stairs are the only tricky part, but well worth the views! Can get muddy after rains but there is well-maintained rails to help along the way. Not wheelchair accessible but lovely picnic area. read more
Diamond Head is one of the iconic landmarks of Oahu. Moderately challenging to hike due to steep sections and stairs. Took my kids on this hike then all of a sudden started raining on us. Got slippery at one point, but we made it through with caution. Very adventurous as we walked into a tunnel with little fear of the dark. As we approached to the top, it was rewarding to see panoramic views of Waikiki and the coastline. Was a bit gloomy so couldn't see it clearly like on a nice sunny day. We roamed around exploring a historic military bunker which was amazing to see. After our hike and we returned to our car, ironically the sun came out. Just a little bit disappointing, but glad we made the time to do the hike. Go early to avoid the heat and crowds. Also, don't forget to make a reservation ahead of time. Put this on your itinerary for O'ahu. Worth the visit! read more
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More info about Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head Rd
Honolulu, HI 96816
Diamond Head
Directions
(808) 587-0300
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Visit Website
http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/
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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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Review Highlights - Diamond Head State Monument
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