It’s a thrilling hike that offers a historical narrative as well as a gorgeous view. The Hike itself is about a mile long and lasts about an hour due to many tourist and elevation of the climb. The park closes at 6pm and the last person allowed up is at 4pm. On the peak, you’ll visit a World War 2 land mark: a pillbox. It’s an old artillery battery/lookout that has an amazing view of Waikiki and Honolulu. This detour is about as touristy as you can get while visiting the islands!
HISTORY OF DIAMOND HEAD SUMMIT:
One of the most famous destinations and landmarks of Oahu: Diamond-head. The first buildings were constructed in 1905 to amp up Hawaii’s overall coastal defense during World War 1. The entire crater was used by the United States Military as a fort that had a viewing capability of 360 degrees and able to thwart off ground and sea attack for a majority of the South/South East side of the island. Between 1940-1950, all gun batteries were removed from all installations on Oahu.
HOW MUCH?
It’s $5 per car to park or $1 per pedestrian. They only accept cash.
HIKING TIPS:
- Open daily 6 am to 6 pm, every day of the year including holidays.
- Use the bathroom before the hike, there are no bathrooms along the way.
- Perfect for all ages!
- NO pets allowed (unfortunately)
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Stay hydrated before, during, and after the hike.
- Hike early in the morning or late afternoon to beat the crowds and the hot sun. For some reason, the sun ray in this area is very strong!
Once you reach the top of the trail, there’s a shortcut to get to the very top (which is the steep stairs you see on the bottom picture) or you can keep walking the trail.
We decided to push for the stairs for a few reasons: 1. It’s shaded and cooler than being outside. 2. It’s a shortcut!
After running the steep stairs, you’ll reach a tunnel and this whirlwind staircase. We we’re tired after running the first staircase, but trust me, the view at the top is worth it! Plus this is a cool vintage staircase right? So picturesque!
Enjoying the view inside the pillbox.
Standing at the very top of Diamond Head trail.
Look at this breathtaking view of Honolulu!
We really recommend this hike for families! If you go at the right time, you can beat the crowds and the scorching hot sun. There are many tourist that come here due to it being close proximity to Waikiki. This is a great hike for beginners or non-hikers! The first part of the hike is a relatively smooth surface with a shallow incline. However, as the hike progresses, you will start walking on rocky surfaces with a steeper incline until you reach the stairs. The stairs are quite steep but not too long. We love this hike because it gets progressively challenging along the way without ever being over-the-top.
Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head Road
Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
“Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”
– Eleanor Roosevelt
2 Comments
Wow, that’s so beautiful! I’m currently planning a trip to Hawaii in October and LOVE reading your blog for tips and inspiration! 🙂
Thank you for reading our posts! 🙂