Have you seen the views of Oahu from the top of Diamond Head?
You will need advance reservations to enter and park (if needed) at Diamond Head State Monument. These reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance. Please use this link to make the reservations- https://gostateparks.hawaii.gov/diamondhead/about
Just some info on hiking Diamond Head Crater?
- An extinct saucer shaped crater, formed about 300,000 years ago and it’s a National Landmark.
- One of the most widely recognized hikes on Oahu
- Diamond Head Crater climbs about 560 feet up to the summit.
- .8 mile hike to the top
- Once at the top, enjoy a panoramic view that extends over half of the island.
- Open 6am-4pm and the gates close at 6pm.
- Reservations give you a window of 2 hours (6-8am, 8-10am, 10am-12pm, 12-2pm, 2-4pm or 4-6pm. If you are parking a car, you must arrive within the first 30 minutes of your reservation period.
- Prices for tourists have gone up- well what hasn’t?
- $5 admission per person (non resident) and $25 per car. Under 3 are free. So if you are walking in, it’s only $5 each but if you drive and park, you will be paying both parking and admission.
- The trail starts on a paved trail but will soon turn into a dirt path, uneven in some spots and the last 10th of a mile is all stairs and very steep.
- There are a number of lookout points where you can rest a bit before continuing up to the top.
- The first set of stairs is just a few minute walk after the first look out and this is the shorter one– only 74 stairs.
- After climbing the first set of stairs, you’ll be at the entrance of the 225 foot long tunnel. It’s dark so bring a flashlight with you.
- Once you get out of the tunnel, the 2nd set of stairs, this one longer with 99 steps will be just ahead. There’s a rest area and look out point after exiting the tunnel so you can catch your breath before heading up this steeper set of stairs.
- After a bit more of a climb, you’ll soon be at the observation center at the summit with some fantastic views of Waikiki and Oahu.
Insider Tips:
- Best at sunrise (thanks to cooler morning temperatures)
- Great whale-watching from December to March for the low admission price.
- Bring water and sunscreen. There are no water fountains along the hike and there is very little shade.
- Don’t pass up the visitor’s booth for some interesting history, it’s role in World War I and, of course, bathrooms, water fountains and some vending machines.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes. This is not a hike to do in flip flops (or Hawaiian slippers)
- You will get some fabulous views from the top of the crater so make the effort to go to the top.
My Vacation Lady is a Hawaii Destination Specialist so if you are interested in a vacation or honeymoon to Hawaii, contact us. Our personal approach to vacation and honeymoon planning can turn an OK trip into a great experience!
