Diamond Head, known as Lē’ahi in Hawaiian, is a dormant volcanic tuff cone located on Oahu’s south shore, near Waikiki and Kapiolani Park. It most likely got its Hawaiian name from its resemblance to a tuna’s dorsal fin, and the name Diamond Head originated from British sailors due to the calcite crystals on a neighboring beach.

In the wetter months, January – April, Diamond Head is emerald-green, and brown in the drier months of May – December. The most popular way to enjoy Diamond Head is by hiking. Hiking Diamond Head is fairly straightforward.

How to Hike Diamond Head

First, you need to get to the trailhead, located inside the crater. There are three ways to do this. The easiest is to book a self-guided Diamond Head Hike, such as the one we offer in our Waikiki All-Inclusive Packages.

Hotel Pickup

You are picked up at your hotel, dropped off inside the crater by the trailhead, and admission and park reservation are included. You are sent off with a map, bottle of water and given ample time to complete your hike, after which you are dropped off at your hotel. This is the easiest way to hike Diamond Head.

Drive Yourself

Another way is to drive, however the parking lot is extremely small, so there could be a long wait for a parking stall.

Take the Bus

Finally, you can take Honolulu’s public transportation, TheBus (Route 2), for $3.00 per person, 5 & up. The bus stop for the Diamond Head hike is located on Diamond Head Road, on the mauka (mountain side) on the volcano. From the street there is a 15-minute walk into the crater to access the trailhead, where you then begin the actual hike.

If you drive or take public transportation, you will need to make a reservation. The hike itself is less than a mile each way (0.8 miles), however you go in one direction – up, so it is a strenuous hike. Coming down is a much less challenging endeavor.

While the Diamond Head hike will definitely work up a sweat, it is suitable for novice hikers. The switchback trail is steep and although it is clearly marked, the terrain is incredibly uneven in many places. Near the summit you must climb a series of stairs and through a lighted tunnel to reach the lookout.

Now that we have gone over the basics, keep reading for the 5 reasons you shouldn’t miss the Diamond Head hike!

5 Reasons You Shouldn’t Miss the Diamond Head Hike

1. Historical Significance

The US Government purchased Diamond Head in 1904 and used it extensively during World War II. Lookouts and long guns were installed as defense from a coastal attack or invasion. Slits were carved into the mountain to provide views of the ocean, and bunkers (pillboxes) were added along the crater rim. Some of these can still be seen on the Diamond Head hike today. Although an invasion from the sea never came, it is still fascinating to see the relics left from one of the darkest moments in history.

2. The Cardio

Although not everyone’s cup of tea, more and more people are looking to incorporate physical activity into their vacations. What better way to do that than the Diamond Head hike?! It is a great opportunity to work up a sweat and work off the previous evening’s luau feast! 

3. The Meal Afterwards

Now that you have completed the Diamond Head hike, refuel at one of the vibey restaurants located near the base of Diamond Head. Standouts are Bogarts, Diamond Head Market and Grill, South Shore Grill, Zippy’s and Rainbow Drive-In, or keep it light and healthy at Diamond Head Cove Health Bar. 

4. The View

This is the most obvious reason you shouldn’t miss the Diamond Head hike! Stunning 360-degree views of Waikiki and the surrounding areas are the big pay-off at the summit. You won’t get better photos than the ones you get at the top of Diamond Head. Some of the sights are Waikiki, the Diamond Head Lighthouse, the Ko’olau Mountains, Kahala, Kapiolani Park, Hanauma Bay and more. You may even see a rainbow, too!

5. Your Bucket List

The last, but not least, reason you shouldn’t miss the Diamond Head hike is because it is a bucket list thing to do in Hawaii! After all, how many times do you get to spend the morning hiking up a volcano in paradise? 

Are You Ready For Your Unforgettable, Authentic, Hawaiian Experience?

We offer a variety of packages to accommodate every taste.

So whether you’re an adventurer, a naturalist, a history buff– or you’re just looking to relax and do some shopping– we’ve got the authentic experience for you. Just contact us to get started.