Want to Do the Diamond Head Hike? Here’s All To Know (Plus More Things to Do in the Area)
Located at the end of Waikiki Beach is a landmark that’s part of the iconic Honolulu skyline. This vast volcanic cone is one of Oahu’s most popular hikes for its epic postcard views. Here’s everything you need to know for a Diamond Head Hike outing, including other things to do and places to eat in the area once you’ve reached the summit.
What Is Diamond Head?
Encompassing 475+ beautiful acres, Diamond Head is a State Monument. This huge, circular crater formed hundreds of thousands of years ago by an explosive volcanic eruption. A celebrated landmark, it cuts a striking image on the Honolulu skyline – a towering mass of rock and vegetation that offers outstanding views from the top.
Britannica said Diamond Head was also the site of an ancient ceremonial structure called a luakini heiau. It was dedicated to the god of war and would have been used in ancient times as a site for worship and even human sacrifice. More recently, in 1908, the military built a trail to the summit to take advantage of its strategic views over the Pacific Ocean – a trail now known as the Diamond Head Summit Trail (AKA, the Diamond Head Hike).
Diamond Head Hike FAQs
Now we know what it is, let’s run through some quick-fire FAQs about this incredible Hawaiian hike. From the trail’s distance to its difficulty, here’s the key information you need to ready yourself for the experience:
How Far is the Diamond Head Hike?
The Diamond Head Hike, AKA the Diamond Head Summit Trail, is a 1.6-mile (2.5km) roundtrip. You hike 0.8 miles uphill from the crater floor to the summit before heading back down.
How Long Does it Take to Hike the Diamond Head Summit Trail?
The Diamond Head Summit Trail takes 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level – and how long you spend taking photos at the summit! It could easily take 2 hours if you aren’t in a hurry.
How Much Elevation Does the Diamond Head Hike Involve?
While Diamond Head itself is over 760 feet above sea level, the Diamond Head Hike involves 560 feet of elevation gain from the crater floor to the lookout. Thankfully, there are plenty of places to rest on the way to the top!
How Difficult Is the Diamond Head Hike?
The difficulty level of the Diamond Head Hike is listed as moderate; it does have several more strenuous sections. Also, keep in mind that if you’re hiking on a warm day, there is no shade from the sun making it feel even more difficult.
For example, there’s a 225-ft tunnel worth keeping in mind if you suffer from bad claustrophobia, and numerous steep stairways to tackle. Thankfully, sizeable chunks of the trail are paved and have railings to hold onto.
When Is the Diamond Head Hike Open?
The Diamond Head State Monument is open daily, except for Christmas and New Year’s. Gates open at 06:00 and close at 18:00, although the last reservation time is at 16:00. You must arrive no later than 16:30.
How Do You Get to the Diamond Head Hike Trailhead?
The Diamond Head Hike starts adjacent to the parking lot within the Diamond Head State Monument. Get there via Diamond Head Road in Honolulu. You’ll find the entrance between 18th Avenue and Makapu-u Avenue. However, you have to pay for parking – something we’ll talk more about later.
Is It a Kid-Friendly Hike?
This really depends on your own kids. It was too difficult for my 6 year old and 11 year-old, but we were also there during a very hot week in August. However, I completed it as an 8 year old many times, as did my 10-year old brother.
If you regularly hike with kids and they do well in the heat, I would consider the Diamond Head hike for your family.
What to Expect When Hiking the Diamond Head Trail
With its long history, accessibility, natural beauty, and excellent views, the Diamond Head Hike is incredibly popular among locals and tourists alike. The result? Expect crowds – especially in peak season, in the middle of the day, and in fine weather. To enjoy it with fewer people, try timing your outing for cooler days or attempt the summit in the early morning/late afternoon.
Regardless of when you go, you’ll start along an easy paved section and ascend past magnificent Hawaiian flowers, with each switchback offering even better views than the last. Tunnels provide a welcome reprieve from the sun, lookouts have dual-functionality as places to rest and soak up the scenery, and old military bunkers offer glimpses into the area’s history. All told, it’s a fantastic walk that’s sure to be a highlight of your time in Hawaii.
Top Tips for a Successful Diamond Head Hike Outing
Before you hop in the car and drive to the trailhead, check out the following tips. They should help you have a fun, enjoyable, and memorable adventure without suffering any setbacks along the way.
Hike In the Morning
There’s no “bad time” to do the Diamond Head Hike. But, as we mentioned earlier, mornings are usually best. Not only are the crowds smaller at the start of the day, but the temperature should also be cooler – conditions that are far more pleasant for hiking. Go later in the day, and the opposite will be true. On nice days, the sun beats down, and the Diamond Head Hike heaves with fellow walkers.
Remember to Book a Reservation (Unless You’re a Resident)
Since 2022, out-of-state visitors must reserve a parking/hiking slot and pay a fee to do the Diamond Head Hike. Entry is $5 per person, but it’s free for children aged 3 and under. Parking costs $10 for non-commercial vehicles and between $25 and $90 for commercial vehicles, depending on the number of passengers. If you’re driving, you must arrive within the first 30 minutes of your 2-hour reservation period.
Book Early to Avoid Disappointment
As for the reservation, you can book up to 30 days in advance. However, we recommend doing this well in advance (especially if you’re traveling in peak season) for a better chance of securing a popular morning slot. Wait too long, and you may have to go later in the day – or miss out altogether. Make your reservation here and pay by credit card; you’ll receive a QR code to present upon arrival.
That being said, we changed the day and time of our reservation in August three days out due to weather and had no problem getting another reservation.
Pack and Wear Appropriate Gear
The Diamond Head Hike is well-paved at the start but has steep sections, stairs, and areas that are rocky and uneven underfoot, so it’s worth wearing good walking shoes. We highly recommend you take/wear sun protection, too, such as a sunhat and sunscreen. Carrying a water bottle to stay hydrated is also important.
Consider the Self-Guided Audio Tour
The Diamond Head Hike is more than just a scenic trail to add to your Hawaii bucket list. It has a fascinating geological, cultural, and military history, too! If you want to learn more about its significance, consider doing the self-guided audio tour that’s available from the Diamond Head Visitor Center. Located near the crater entrance, you can pay $4 per person for an audio tour player and map.
Other Things to Do in the Neighborhood
While you’re in this part of Honolulu, make a day of it and enjoy these places!
1. Diamond Head Beach Park – Want to cool down after your hike? Head to this lovely Oahu beach for a quick dip. Watching the surfers do their thing is fun too!
2. Honolulu Zoo or Aquarium – This popular Honolulu tourist attraction has over 900 different animals! Tickets cost $19 for adults, $11 for children aged 3 to 12, and nothing for kids aged 2 or below. Want to see some marine life? Waikiki Aquarium’s nearby, too.
3. Pioneer Saloon – If you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Pioneer Saloon. Recommended to us by locals, this affordable cafe offer both plat lunches and casual Japanese fare.
4. Rainbow Drive In – About 10 blocks from Pioneer is Hawaiian native, Barak Obama’s favorite place to grab local grinds. Also featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive Ins and Dives, this family-owned spot is known for sky-high portions of hearty plate lunch specialties.
Start Planning the Perfect Diamond Head Hike Outing Today
The Diamond Head Summit Trail is one of Hawaii’s most popular walks. And for good reason! It takes you to the top of an iconic local landmark that’s steeped in history and offers sublime views of this wonderful part of Polynesian.
