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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!!
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 :)
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!
We booked the first time slot for a sunrise hike. Highly recommend. We arrived at 5:50 am. There was already a line. Once the park opens at 6 am the line moved fast. They told us we have to be out by 8:30 not a problem. The TH has a great bathroom. It was great to get going early as it's not hot. The trail is great with switchbacks up. There's a bunker close to the top. Go there after you summit you can go thru the bunker other way down it was pretty cool. The summit has a great view of Honolulu. Great hike.
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!
1 year ago
Super cool hike! We took an Uber and got dropped off past the gate. Apparently that's something new, Uber used to not be allowed to drop off past the ticket both but now they do! Yes, you do have to make reservations, tickets were $5 per person. The hike is pretty much uphill the whole way. It was fine for our group, I wasn't fast, I did get hot and it was a nice challenge. Even though I was going slowish and stopping to take photos it took about 22min to reach the top. I liked the hike a lot but was bummed it was short. No fault to the trail! It was a beautiful day, a little too windy, but very happy to fit this into our schedule. read more
Park entrance: $5 on foot and $10 if you need to park your car. Free for Hawaii residents. Reservations are required. Book them online so you can get into the park, bring your QR code. I printed it out just in case, but I got great cellular service on the mountain Getting here: there are so many tour companies that charge crazy prices to come here. Ranging from $40, $80, and higher! If you are staying at a hotel in the Waikiki area, just take the bus and save your money. It is $3 one way CASH only and look for Bus 2 or 2L. Jump off at the Leahi Millennium Peace Memorial. Then it is .5 miles from bus stop to the park entrance. If you get Holo card at ABC stores for the bus, it is even easier to get on the bus and not have to pay cash. When to come: the park gives you a one hour window to get your tickets, our window was 9-10am. I would recommend to come earlier because the sun was intense at 9am and there is not a lot of shade to get relief from the sun. I recommend bring a hat or umbrella to provide relief from the sun. Again make sure to bring water to stay hydrated. Bathrooms: they are located just inside the park and right before you start the climb. Very clean for a park. Outside the bathroom are water fountains and water filling stations so that you stay hydrated. Sturdy shoes are recommended because there are some rocky areas with uneven surfaces. I wore sneakers and had no problems. There are areas that are narrow and requires to share with those exiting the crater. If you are in good shape this is an easy climb. If you get winded going up stairs or down the driveway, this will be tough. As you get closer to the summit, there are a lot of stairs. There is one section that is a tunnel and got a bit dark but some side light helped, but if you are afraid of the dark, this could be a challenge. But getting to the summit ... wow the views! It is so worth it! read more
A must see when visiting Honolulu. Read first: Book a reservation in advance. It costs $5 / person. Don't pay a tour company to take you to Diamond Head. If you're staying in Waikiki, take a local bus ($3/person/trip). The no. 2 line bus dropped us at teh Leahi Millennium Peace Garden just outside the park. From that drop off point the official park entrance is exactly 1/2 mile. The hike to the summit is a 4/10 for intensity and difficulty. From where the bus dropped us off and back was 3.4 miles with 682 feet of elevation gain (I logged the hike on my Garmin Fenix 3 watch). If you're obese or crippled, think about skipping the hike. Wear good shoes and socks. Use sunscreen and wear at hat. Bring 2 bottles of water if you're hiking at any time other than dawn. The views from the summit are incredible. If you like birds and animals pay attention. The cardinals are beautiful and have personality, and you may encounter a mongoose looking for a handout. read more
4 years ago
Wow! 11 years ago me and my 10 year old did this in 15min (to the top, per my first review). We are getting old! It took us 19min this past go around ;) Here's why, we started in the 6a hour and it was pitch black so we were being careful to watch our footing without a headlamp or light source. A lot has changed since we last "hiked" here but for nostalgia we wanted to. We pulled up in our rental car and were asked about a reservation. Say what...?!?! Reservation? Ok, news to us. We did not have a "reservation" so we couldn't access the trail. Luckily, we were in town several more days and made a reservation online for a future date and time slot (6a-8a). You must enter within the first 30minutes of your time slot. You pay per person and per vehicle to use the trail. Is it worth it? I suppose if you haven't done it before, but there are many more gorgeous free hikes around the island. We did drive here but on another morning while out jogging we realized we'd basically jogged here- so if you're into running, or a nice little walk and you're staying in the Waikiki area you very well could just jog or walk here to tack on a little more mileage. This hike is suitable for all ages and most abilities as it's super quick and easy. We are outdoorsy peeps but trust me when I say we spotted all types making their way up so there's zero doubt in my mind when I say nearly anyone can make the little trek. All in all it's about 30-40 minutes round trip if you're in decent shape and the panoramic views are beautiful. We stayed for sunrise which felt reminiscent of a recent trip to Santorini where everyone is up top just waiting and watching. It's magical and won't eat into precious beach time since it's such a short distance. I'd recommend if you haven't done it but if you're really itching for a leg burner or something without fees, this isn't it. read more
Looking for a good view and a fairly easy hike? This trail is is it. There were plenty of tourists and children hiking this "trail" that is fully paved. There's a bunker area and a lookout that are the main lookout points. With photo ops, a loop takes about 2 hours. There is easy parking at the bottom near the college where the farmers markets are, but you can also park at the top near the trail head for $10. Admission is $5 per person, and it's best to register prior to arrival since everything is electronic. Recommend for a leisurely morning hike. read more
Went to Diamond Head with a friend before the Honolulu marathon. It was a really great hike! We walked from our hotel (1.5 miles) and really enjoyed the challenge! Lots of elevation quick (steep points and steps), definitely have to watch your step. There wasn't too much traffic on an early Friday morning. Gives great views of the ocean, and it's a state park, so why not! If you have kiddos with you, highly recommend stopping by the kiosk at the bottom and asking for a Junior Ranger packet. It's a really fun activity that teaches you a lot about the local flora and fauna, and has reflection questions about your journey. At the end you can earn a really cute die cut wooden badge. There are also plenty of nearby locations to eat afterwards. Highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time. They are strict and will check to see if you've made a reservation and have at the correct arrival time. Definitely helped to mitigate big crowds. So definitely plan ahead! read more
11 months ago
Simple, easy hike. Go early or early afternoon because it gets hot. I've done this hike several times and recently noticed the trail is paved. You still need to watch your step because it is uneven. Great views at the top. I recommend you take the stairs at the top for the full experience. Nonresidents need to make reservations ahead of time while ka'mainas do not. read more
Beautiful must see hike in Honolulu. Please be sure to make reservations online beforehand. There are no walk ups. Parking is also very scarce so try and get there early. Hike itself is about 2 miles round trip. A little steep in some areas but the views are amazing. Would definitely come back and do it again. read more
3 years ago
I got a runner's high from climbing up these stairs, so I loooved this trail! It's the perfect hike for anyone that enjoys the Stairmaster! The trail is moderately difficult and is 1.6 miles round trip. It is an uphill battle to reach the Diamond Head crater summit. Given the loose gravel, steep steps, and uneven walkways, I highly recommend wearing shoes. The route is rather barren, so don't count on shade or wind to keep you cool! It was hot and dry for us. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and AMPLE WATER for EACH hiker. (My 40 oz hydroflask was not enough water for me.) Time your route to begin early in the day to avoid getting roasted by the sun. As you climb higher and higher, rest at the lookout points. These are good opportunities to catch your breath, drink water, and enjoy the scenic views. The view at the top is stunning and worth the strenuous physical toll! read more
Another iconic Hawaiian stop. Near Waikiki. A few miles away so catch the trolley or bike. Or run. Great view from the top. Not too hard a hike. About a mile with a good uphill hike. Great view, did I say that? Of Waikiki and beach. However it is just too popular and touristy. So many other good hikes on island. read more
As of June 2023 - reservations are required online. Once you pass the tunnel there's a ticket attendant that'll scan your QR code. There was plenty parking spots. I had reserved a parking spot for $10 per vehicle. Each person is $5 + additional fee. Some helpful tips- 1) wearing a hat is a must! There's zero shade 2) comfortable shoes are a must! I saw people complete the trail in sandals 3) water! Bring plenty of water 4) selfie stick 5) sunglasses This trail is not an easy trail as it is a gradual incline. Depending on your fitness stamina, it might take you a few stops along the way. Even with all the online reservation, the trail was busy and full of people! As a avid hiker, it took me 26 minutes to hike UP because of all the foot traffic. It took me 23 minutes to hike down! If the trail was empty, I probably could have finished it sooner. Plenty of picnic tables if you want to have a picnic before or after the hike!! Beautiful views. Definitely worth a visit!!! read more
Even though we've been to Oahu a few times, the last time we did this hike we were 20 years younger. It was a bit steep and narrow at some parts, but overall it's not a difficult hike. We got the 8am reservation with parking about 2 weeks prior, and we saw many hikers coming down already after the sunrise. We still got an amazing view up on top, but it was quite crowded already. I don't think the reservation is to cap capacity of the hikers, but to just take care of the money. $10 per car and $5 per hiker plus fees. I still would recommend it because of the great view on top. It does get quite windy up there and my cap flew away! So take care of your personal belongings. There's a bathroom at the visitor center and also a small gift shop by the parking lot. read more
Trekking this monument was a must for me on my first trip to the Waikiki area. I knew a reservation was needed, however, I wasn't able to reserve a morning slot through the state's website. I was able to secure a morning slot through a company on Viator. The tour included transportation to and from Diamond Head which was so helpful. The path started out paved with a slow incline. From there.... make sure you have a great pair of walking shoes and plenty of water. And pace yourself. The path was very well marked and uneven. The map was very help to locate various rest areas. Along the way, there are incredible photo opportunities. Yes, I made it to the the top and was able to take in the views. I would highly recommend this challenge to anyone who enjoys walking. I did see all age group doing this trek. read more
This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Honolulu! It's reasonably priced, just $5 per person but you are encouraged to register in advance. There is parking but with limited spaces which is another reason to register in advance but parking costs a little more. We Uber'd there and took one of the public buses back to our hotel. Bring water and snacks. You can also bring lunch and enjoy the views at one of the picnic tables, i was impressed by the ages and conditions of many of the hikers: children, elderly, folks with canes all hiking to the summit! read more
2 years ago
Not for the weak! Make sure you are in shape and well hydrated as this hike will kick your butt. The views are incredible from up above. read more
Even if you're not a hiker or active this is a very do-able hike. 2 mile roundtrip that has some very stunning views. At a moderate pace at 6 am it took an hour roundtrip. Definitely go early and bring water. Make reservations online for entry for each person $5 and choose the 2 hour time slot you want to park there for $10. If you don't want to pay you can park in the residences and take a mini 10 minute walk to warm up those legs. read more
2 years ago
For the first time coming here. I got here early morning for 6am reservation. I got the gate at 5:30am and there was a line of cars and tour buses to get in. Just before the gate, off to the side from an area of a nice view of the sun rising. Once the gate open, I checked in at the tower on the other side. There is a parking area and with open field. I parked and started following people while hiking up the zigzag mountain. Going early morning wasn't that hot, but as the sun came up, it did get warmer throughout the morning. It took me about 30 mins to get to the top. Once you get to the top, it is absolutely beautiful 360 degree view. It's definitely worth the view once you get the top. Make sure when you come here, bring water, good pair of shoes, sunscreen, and towel. read more
4 years ago
I visited when there was no reservation needed back in February 2022. If you want to physically and visually experience the immense natural beauty that this island has to offer, take the hike! It's super easy to get here either by car or public transportation that drops you off right at the entrance. It's a bit of a walk to get to the actual monument but once you get there you can purchase your ticket. We chose to get treats before the hike- there's a variety of food trucks lined up on the side and we chose shaved ice and pineapple whip. Both were super refreshing to have during the hike, but you can also choose to eat once you come back down! The hike was probably the longest one I've ever done but it was more beautiful with every step you took. The views of the island and the ocean are awesome, especially once you reach the lookout. It's probably much more popular right now than it was then (we had more covid restrictions) but I would still highly recommend spending your morning and afternoon here. read more
Great hike to do in Oahu!! Beautiful panoramic views of the island. Very easy hike if you don't mind a bit of a small incline. It wasn't too steep or intense. Very manageable for someone who doesn't exercise (one person in our group even wore flip flops, even though I don't recommend this, he just forgot we were hiking that morning and forgot to pack tennis shoes for the trip). You can walk into the grounds and pay an entry fee or if you drive in, parking wasn't expensive. Photo will include the coat; reservations are required at the moment. read more
3 years ago
Get a reservation before visiting Diamond Head! All vehicles require a reservation in advance of entry so you will be turned away without one. Parking is $10 and there's a $5 per person charge as of April 2024. You can walk in, but you'll need to pay up front. There's only one major hike which is to the top of the crater to visit the old bunkers. It's not an accessible pathway and has tons of stairs. Arrive as early as possible or on a weekday to avoid the trail crowds. There's almost no cover on the trail so bring a hat and avoid rain! read more
It's a must go hike here. In my opinion it was an easy short 2 miles round trip. It can be hard for others because of the incline. It crowded here so do bring water, hat, and wear hiking shoes, wear sunscreen. The trails are uneven and it can get hot. It's worth the hike for the view. We did have to pay $5 per person to do the hike. Or you can park somewhere before the entrance and hike up to the monument, which adds another mile or two. read more
This is a satisfying hike to the top of the Diamond Head crater with gorgeous views of the ocean, the city, and the peaks in the distance. It is moderately challenging. It's quite short but you do gain a lot of elevation. Definitely not for those with bad knees. There are probably around 200 steps to climb throughout the trek and some parts are a bit steep. The first part of the path is smooth and paved but then it becomes rocky and uneven. There are plenty of lookout points along the way to rest and take pictures. The path can be narrow and it gets busy so you will have to squeeze past fellow hikers who are going in the opposite direction as you. There's a cool section of the hike where you walk through a dark tunnel, which makes you feel like a stealth adventurer. The views at the top are definitely worth it and the hike goes faster than you might think. I would budget about 1.5 hours for the round trip. Be sure to bring sunscreen, as well as a hat or umbrella to block the sun. read more
Diamond Head is a must stop when visiting Oahu. Beautiful views when up top, overseeing the city and the ocean. You need to be physically capable to reach the top since I've seen seniors attempting to go to the peak and they've experienced fatigue so they've decided to retreat. There is an entrance fee and a couple of food trucks at the parking lot. Make sure to bring water bottles, wear comfortable clothes, shoes, and sunscreen because, it will get hot and the sun is beating down on you. The trails consist of stairs, rocks/mud. As a novice hiker, it's actually not too bad of a workout and easily manageable by taking breaks when hiking with friends. Overall, definitely would love to come here again! read more
This was a HIKE! Wow, with an awesome view at the end. Me and my friend wanted to do this hike since it's a must-see in Oahu. It did feel a bit touristy, but why not be a little touristy sometimes? You have to have reservations to park inside the monument. It's a bit more expensive as well. We decided to make reservations to walk in, instead, and parked just outside the monument. The way up is a little challenging, getting more challenging the higher up you go. On the yellow stairs I almost threw up. Haha. And I'm in shape!! It was that much of a workout. I recommend putting your head down, not looking up, and just getting through it. The end result was so beautiful. I don't recommend this hike if you're not capable of walking on an incline for a long period of time. You will be sore the next day if you're not in shape. Anyways, highly recommend! read more
When in town and the weather is beautiful I enjoy walking up to this place! The views are incredible!!! It's a must do for those able to walk up steep steps, conquer uneven ground, etc Its such a great feeling of accomplishment when getting up there for those breathtaking views !!! One thing I do recommend is DO NOT wear high heels. It is NOT suitable to walk up the mountain in stilettos. Lol I've seen tourists do this and it's surely a recipe for injury! read more
This is a great hike that is family/kid friendly. It's one of the easier hikes in Hawaii. The view over looking the water and city is breathtaking. I always do this hike when I visit Hawaii. I would suggest going early in the morning before it gets crowded. read more
Solid hike, not too difficult and nice and quick. You get an amazing view at the end. Obviously a very touristy thing to do. Make sure you have res. Go online. I saw someone get turned away. I literally went online and booked it than called my Uber. I got lucky. You definitely want to wear shoes. Maybe a water bottle. It's not too intense. I saw people with backpacks which confused me. It's about an hour and change up and down. Put this on your list! Aloha! read more
This hike is less than 2-miles roundtrip, and while it gets steep in some areas, it is a very doable hike for folks of all athletic levels. You need to make a reservation ahead of heading to the monument, but it's very easy to do online! TheBus can take you directly in front of the space, and there is clear signage to tell you where to head to start the trip. The views are immaculate, and I'd definitely do it again, if the opportunity presented itself. Just be aware that if you go later in the morning/day, expect there to be plenty of other hikers/tourists, and be conscious that some areas are smaller than others. read more
Such an iconic landmark, Diamond Head is a volcanic cone on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. It was named Diamond Head by the British soldiers in the 19th century who mistook the sparkling calcite crystals on the neighboring beach for diamonds. Hawaiians call it Lēahi, or brow of the tuna, as the ridges in the cone look like dorsal fin of an Ahi Tuna. Amazing to be able to hike a trail which leads to the edge of the 300,000-year-old crater and be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. Diamond Head is part of the Ko'olau Range of volcanoes which began erupting below sea level over 2.6 million years ago to create the Hawaiian Islands. A single monogenetic eruption around 300,000 years ago created the Diamond Head Crater. Diamond Head and much of the surrounding was purchased by the US in 1905 to strengthen the country's coastal artillery defense. Batteries and guns were installed on the slopes of the crater and inside it. Climb to the summit via a winding 99 step staircase that leads to one of the WWII bunkers. The Kahala Tunnel, built in 1940, serves as the entrance to the crater. We were lucky to go on a day that was not that crowded. Go early in the morning, wear good shoes for hiking, apply sunscreen and bring plenty of water. Beautiful to also view Diamond Head from the Waikiki Beach as the sun is rising or setting. Parking is $10. Entry is $5 per person. We rented an audio tour for $4 which was interesting to learn about how Diamond Head was formed, creating the trails, and the military significance. Mahalo! read more
3 years ago
A steep climb to see beautiful views! The entry fee is $5 per person and you can also purchase a parking pass for $10 which I highly recommend. This hike will have you going up and up and up with various places to pull over to take breaks when needed so it's important to wear proper footwear and carry water. There is a dark tunnel with a lower ceiling that all must walk through. Furthermore, there is an optional staircase towards the top of the hike or you can go around the path - both lead you to the overlook. Additionally, there is a super cool bunker that you can go inside to get a feel for how the coastal defense of Honolulu felt back in 1908 - 1911. Lastly, there is a gift shop you indulge in at entry or again after you finish the climb. This was a fun one! read more
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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