Diamond Head
Diamond Head State Monument, or Leahi in Hawaiian, is one of Hawaii’s most famous landmarks. Lying at the Southern edge of Waikiki, Diamond Head offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu that you can hike to via a trail that leads you to the edge of the 300,000-year old crater.
The Diamond Head Hike
The Diamond Head provides opportunities for travellers to hike to the edge of a volcano. Millions of visitors and locals make their way to the top for the panoramic view of Honolulu and the Southern shoreline of Oahu each year.
It takes about 1 - 2 hours to hike the Diamond Head Summit Trail. The trail can be challenging for some, especially on hot days. However, you will reach the top soon and be rewarded with stunning views. Moreover, there are benches and lookouts along the way where you can stop and take a water break during your hiking journey. It is ideal to hike the trail in the early morning, between 6:00 a.m to 8:00 a.m, to avoid hot weather and the flood of tourists. For visitors who are interested in the history of the crater, the self-guided audio tour is available in the Visitor Centers. This guide will explain the historical significance of Diamond Head as well as the local plants and animals. With this audio guide, you can walk at your own pace, enjoy your own journey, and take pictures of the stunning beauty around you.
Some tips for visitors hiking Diamond Head
The Diamond Head hike is the most popular hike on O’ahu island for both locals and visitors, so you will not have the trail to yourself. In order to have a more enjoyable trip here, we suggest you arrive earlier, or much later in the day to avoid the mid-day crowds. As the parking lot at Diamond Head is limited, visitors are encouraged to take the bus, trolley or rideshare. Although the Diamond Head Trail is only a 1.6 miles roundtrip, still, it can pose a challenge to novice hikers. Remember to put on sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, some snacks and some water with you. Last but not least, there are some food trucks selling pineapples, smoothies, ice cream, and other refreshing treats for foodie lovers, so remember to bring some cash.
