Diamond head hike is one of Oahu’s most popular hikes, and for a good reason! The hike features a bird’s eye view of Honolulu on one side while featuring lush, green scenery on the opposite side of the summit.
The trail winds throughout multiple sides of the ascent offering a wide variety of views of the surrounding landscape. Given that it’s a relatively short hike, it does not require a super early start and is suitable for hikers at all levels.
It’s also very easy to get to from Honolulu by both car and bus and perfect for all ages.
This was our first hike we did as we were working in Oahu for a year and is still one of our favourite’s. We’ll cover everything you need to know to embark on this hike such as how to get there, how to make a reservation, and what to back. Read on until the end where we give some recommendations for close by restaurants post hike!
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Facts About Diamond Head
- Originally named Leahi by native Hawaiins, the feature was renamed in 1825 by British sailors who mistook volcanic calcite crystals found in the area as diamonds
- The crater was formerly used as a military lookout in the early 1900’s and was the first U.S. military reservation established in Hawaii
- The nearby Ko’olau mountain range was formed by a single volcano and is over 2.5 million years old
- The volcanic cone that is Diamond head is estimated to be between 400,000 to 500,000 years old
- It was once used by ancient Hawaiians for ceremonial worship and human sacrifice
Getting There
Diamond head is located on the eastern side of Waikiki and is very accessible by car or public transportation.
By Bus: Coming from the Waikiki beach area, there are several bus routes that will take you within a 15-minute walk to the start of the trail. Coming from the farthest part of Waikiki, the 23 bus can take you to Diamond Head in about 45-50 minutes
By Car: Parking is available for a fee of 10 dollars per car (regardless of the amount of people) at the base of the trailhead. From Waikiki is is about a 10 minute drive. Both Lyft and Uber are also readily available and will cost you about $10-20 coming from Waikiki.
Making A Reservation
Reservations are required at all times for non-residents of Hawaii. You will be denied entry without a reservation. You can reserve a time-slot for up to 30 days before your hike for a fee of 5 dollars per person. The earliest reservation time is 6am and the latest is 4pm with the gates to the park closing at 6pm.
The slots are reserved in 2 hour block and you must enter within 30 minutes of your time slot. I would recommend booking the earliest time slot of 6a-8am as the views are even more spectacular at sunrise.
You can make a reservation to hike Diamond head by following this link here.
If you are in a pinch and did not reserve, you may be able to get in by booking through a tour company. The company will also pick up and drop off from your hotel.
The Hike
How difficult is Diamond Head?
At 1.6 miles round trip, this hike is of easy/moderate difficulty and would be suitable for families and people of all ages. It begins on a slow incline on a paved road. This leads into a rockier trail with more uneven ground with some parts being much steeper. Just before the summit, there is a tunnel and a few sequences of stairs steep stairs which can be strenuous, but are completely worth the 360 degree view at the top!
How long does the hike take?
This hike itself will take about an hour on average to complete round trip. Factor in about 20-30 minutes for pictures along the way which would bring the total time to about 1.5 hours. If you took the bus, keep in mind that it is about another 15 minute walk to the bus station.
What should I pack?
- Plenty of water: this hike isn’t difficult, but it’s also not a walk in the park. You will work up a sweat so bring an adequate amount of water.
- Proper footwear: Hiking boots are not necessary, but you should wear a good pair of tennis shoes. Flip flops will not be adequate with the rocky terrain.
- Sunscreen and hat: There are a few shaded areas such as going through the tunnel, but the majority of the trail is in direct sunlight. Be sure to pack sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, etc.
Other Great Activities to Book in Oahu
Toa Luau:
One of Oahu’s most authentic luaus at a great price
Turtle Canyon Waikiki Snorkel Adventure:
Snorkel with sea turtles and schools of fish on this small group tour
Waikiki Sunset Cruise:
BYOB! Enjoy a scenic sunset cruise as you sip of your favorite drinks
Oahu Hidden Gems Tour:
experience some of Oahu’s must see spots in one day
Surfing Lession At Waikiki Beach:
Don’t leave Hawaii without getting up on a surfboard once!
Post Hike
After your descent, there are a number of popular restaurants, diners, and bakeries in the area. These are easily accessible from the bus route.
Some of the most frequently visited are Rainbow cafe for their famous breakfast plates (get the loco moco), Ono Seafood for their poke bowls, and Leonard’s bakery for their Malasadas.
All are a must when visiting Honolulu. For a post hike swim, Waikiki beach and Ala Moana Beach Park are a quick bus ride away.
