Diamond Head State Monument

The Diamond Head Trail (aka Lēʻahi Summit Trail) is a classic Honolulu hike with spectacular views. It is roughly 0.8-mile (1.3 km) one-way, climbing about 560 feet from inside the ancient volcanic crater to the summit. Features a mix of paved paths, steep stairs and a short lighted tunnel. Round-trip usually takes 1.5 hours at a moderate pace. The payoff is spectacular: panoramic 360-degree views of Waikiki, Honolulu, the Pacific Ocean, and the coastline stretching from Koko Head to the Waiʻanae range. On clear days (or during whale season), it's breathtaking, and the sense of standing atop one of Oahu's most iconic landmarks feels special. It's rated moderate—doable for most people in decent shape, but the heat, sun exposure (little shade), and stair sections can make it challenging, especially midday. Bring water, wear good shoes, hat, and sunscreen, and start early (park opens at 6 a.m.) to beat the crowds and heat. For tourists (non-residents), it's a must-do bucket-list activity—super accessible from Waikiki, with epic photo ops and that classic Hawaii vibe. However, it's very popular (thousands visit daily), so expect crowds, especially mid-morning to afternoon. Reservations are required for entry and parking (book ahead online), and there's an entry fee (~$5 per person, plus parking if driving). The trail can feel congested, with bottlenecks at viewpoints and stairs. Hawaii residents enter free with ID and don't need advance bookings. It's convenient for a quick hike without the tourist frenzy if you go very early, late afternoon, or on quieter weekdays. Some locals view it as a bit overhyped or crowded compared to lesser-known trails, but the views and convenience keep it in rotation for exercise or showing off to visiting friends/family. It is much easier than the Koko Head trail/steps.

Checked this one off my bucket list! Be sure to book a reservation for parking and entry at least 3 weeks in advance as the park gets full fast. Wear comfortable attire and hiking shoes as well as taking along some water to sip. The walk begins on a wide concrete paved pathway through the park-like setting. It then turns into a narrow, rocky, twisting path up the craters interior wall. The paths is a bit uneven due to erosion, but not difficult for an able-bodied person. The ascent includes some staircases and a tunnel with several awe-inspiring lookout to stop for photos and memories. Take a moment to enjoy 360⁰ views from the top lookouts and the historical significance of being inside of the Pillbox. Begin your descent down the spiral staircase and loop back down the same path you came up. Stop at the gift shop to get a momento to mark the occasion along with the wonderful photos you took to remember your 2 hours conquering Diamond Head! Definitely recommend it if you can physically make the hike.

This was my first time in Hawaii, and I climbed this mountain to see the city and the surrounding ocean. The path up the mountain was difficult, but the trees provided shade. From the mountaintop, I could see the coastal city in the distance, the beautiful clear blue sea, and the sunny weather made for excellent visibility. The sunny weather made for a beautiful view and a great day for hiking.

Loved it. Easy to get to by bus. Then it's 10 minutes to the entrance/gate. The hike is moderate. It can take you 30-60 minutes to get up there. Some people i dont think had any idea what they had signed up for and really struggled. It's not a hard hike, but you still have to be remotely in shape. The area is beautiful. It's cool that you get to go inside the bunker and the views from it are astonishing.

This hike is a wonderful and well-worth-it experience for the entire family. It features a gentle, gradual incline that’s easy to navigate. At the top, you have two options: take the stairs or the trail. The choice depends on your desired level of challenge. I recommend taking the trail on the way down, but the breathtaking, spectacular views make it a worthwhile experience regardless.

Must do for sunrise. We stayed in Waikiki, woke up at 5 am, and jogged to this place. There was an entrance fee we didn’t know about, but the staff were really helpful and let us pay it online, then we continued our journey up. The entrance opens at 7 am. The view is spectacular, soaking up the first warmth, and the peaceful sunlight is amazing. Expect crowds but not too much. We explored the place until it had a good amount of sunlight to capture more photos, then left around 9 am. By then, more people had started coming.

Is it worth it? Yes—but with caveats. Most visitors agree that the panoramic 360-degree view of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean at the summit is unmatched. However, it is a "tourist classic," meaning it is rarely a quiet nature walk. If you hate crowds or stairs, you might find it more frustrating than relaxing. The Good • The Views: Unbeatable. You can see the entire Honolulu skyline, the turquoise coastline, and even Koko Head in the distance. • The Experience: You are literally hiking inside a volcanic crater. The trail includes historic WWII bunkers and narrow tunnels that feel like an adventure. • Accessibility: It’s paved for a good portion, making it manageable for most fitness levels if you take your time. The Bad • The Crowds: Even with the new reservation system, the trail can feel like a "conga line" of tourists. • The Heat: There is almost zero shade. The Hawaiian sun inside the crater can be brutal by 10:00 AM. • The Stairs: The final ascent includes a notorious set of 99 steep steps. (Note: There is a "loop" path that lets you bypass the steepest stairs if you prefer a slightly longer, more gradual route). Quick Tips for Your Visit • Reservations are Mandatory: If you are not a Hawaii resident, you must book your entry and parking in advance online. Slots open 30 days out and sell out fast. • Timing: Aim for the 6:00 AM slot to catch the sunrise and beat the heat. If you can't go early, go after 4:00 PM. • Gear: Wear sneakers (not flip-flops), bring more water than you think you need, and don't forget a hat and jacket. • Duration: Expect the hike to take about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip, including time at the top for photos.

Very cool site and debatably a must see if in decent physical shape for the climb. Great views over Waikiki and the ocean. Fascinating history to the place. Paid parking, must make reservation in advance!

I was skeptic of coming here as this was one of the most visited park to hike for the views and I knew it was going to be crowded. When I found out that this required a reservation and they actually do cap how many people they let in, that changed my mind and we decided to come for the sunrise. They are strict on who they were letting in and you need a ticket or you'll be turned away. This was the easiest hike I've done, but I just hiked Koko Head Trail the day before, so my legs were noodles and walking up any flight of stairs sucked, which made the hike just a bit harder for me. The views are amazing and there's a bunker at the top. Worth it for the views, especially for sunrise if you can force yourself to get up a 4AM.

Bring water, good shoes, a hat, sunscreen and patience! The reward is at the very top but the views along the way are stunning too. We enjoyed a cool breeze as we completed the switchback summit to the peak of Diamond Head. You must make a reservation on the state's website, the State ensures there are only so many entries per hour and the trail closes at 2 due to a current project to reinforce the area. The trail was packed on a Saturday which is to be expected but the fellow hikers were pleasant and patient as I'm not the fastest hiker. Be sure to wear good shoes and watch were you step! The majority of the hike is paved but as you progress towards the top you find the trail has eroded and it's not a smooth path. There are hand rails and short tunnels that provide relief along the way. The true reward is at the very top where you enjoy a view that can't be beat!

Good workout - yes. Fun to do with friends - yes. Nice, nature hike - no. This is a must do hike when in Honolulu, but it is very touristy and crowded. During the "off" season (January), it wasn't as bad, but there's still lots of people. Most of the hike is either paved or stairs, and there's lots of switch backs, so it wasn't too strenuous, but for sure, it's a workout. It only takes about 1/2 hour to reach the top, and once there, people congregate and won't leave. There are some really nice views from top, so yes, it's worth the hike. Down below there's a nice grassy area with some picnic tables and plenty of trees for shade. Make sure to make a reservation online before entry, otherwise, you cannot enter. It's only $5 per person, so well worth the visit.

Highly recommend hiking Diamond Head on your trip to Oahu. About the hike: the trail is paved at first, then transitions to rock. The rock is uneven, I was able to comfortably hike wearing tennis shoes. (I wouldn't be deterred if you forget to pack hiking boots). Walking from the uber drop off point and back, I hiked approximately 2.5 miles. There's restrooms and a water bottle refill station near the gift shop. The views from the top are gorgeous!

Spectacular! A little bit of a hike to make it to the top, but the views are worth it! One of the best things we did on the island. Make sure to make your reservations before going.

Great hike again! This time with my 1 yr old son and it was still a blast! Super easy hike, nice few and lots of rest stops. It does get busy in the morning but afternoon it starts to slow down. Definitely recommend making a reservation if you are not a local ahead of time. Lots of parking inside and a few right before the entrance tunnel. Always fun to come here, we'll definitely be back.

Mark the notch on the vacation belt and just do it. Here are the do's & dont's: Take the earliest trolley there to beat the line for driving and parking. Much more fun there and open air refreshing on the ride back. Bring bottle water, light backpack if you got it ~ it gets hot and tiresome carrying them by hand. Hiking path ~ sure, some can do it in flipflops but why brag about enduring the pain? Undulating steepness, narrow at times, cobbled here and there. The annoyance of the immense crowds makes this a challenge. Wear athletic shoes and be comfortable sure-footed. Bathrooms at the bottom but not at the top so be prepared. Epic views for selfies and be mindful that a line is waiting to take pictures too.

For the first time coming here. I got here early morning for 6am reservation. I got the gate at 5:30am and there was a line of cars and tour buses to get in. Just before the gate, off to the side from an area of a nice view of the sun rising. Once the gate open, I checked in at the tower on the other side. There is a parking area and with open field. I parked and started following people while hiking up the zigzag mountain. Going early morning wasn't that hot, but as the sun came up, it did get warmer throughout the morning. It took me about 30 mins to get to the top. Once you get to the top, it is absolutely beautiful 360 degree view. It's definitely worth the view once you get the top. Make sure when you come here, bring water, good pair of shoes, sunscreen, and towel.

My wife and I were so glad we got to do this hike (thanks to my cousin getting us reservations). Reservations are necessary so make sure you secure those prior to going (I've heard they can turn you away). It's about $10 for parking and $5 for entry so try to carpool too. Our group's reservation was from 6-8 am and we arrived at the entrance right around 6 and there was already a line of cars to get in. The hike isn't super hard. Lots of uneven pavement, stairs, inclines, and even a narrow-ish tunnel. Great exercise before the sun comes out. The views at the top/near the top make it worth the journey. Very glad that we were able to make this happen and would do it again.

a new year, a new resolution, a new sunrise! was told it's hard to get reservations for the mornings but was pleasantly surprised when I saw slots available, a day before my planned visit, and quickly secured the 6-7am timing via online booking. worked backwards and set my alarm for 4.30am! water, snack, lulus check! early to bed and hydrated accordingly. bus #2 a short walk away and in less than half an hour i was at the foot. still dark it was at 6, so some might want to consider an extra torch. as for me, i adapted my night vision. fear not as others will also light the way as you'll never walk alone here! ;) just follow like i did as there are definitely others out there! the initially easy evenly paved slope will gradually give way to meandering uneven path and ultimately steps. the initially crisp chills gradually inverts with layers of warmer air, your body also warms up as you ascend and most who were armed with jackets will eventually not need them at the summit. the compacted line of hikers as you climb also contributed to a comfortable ambient temperature nearer to the top. the crowd, a good mix of races and ages, all gunning to see the light of day! if you thought you were early, there are others earlier! definitely broke a sweat but the end justified the journey! the 360° panorama afforded at the peak, even the crowd can't block out! for those who seek that perfect shot, a risky venture over the railings helps but it's definitely not for the faint hearted! slowly but surely, light defeats darkness.... the view bathed in a gentle volcanic mist that tinted the sun red at dawn. the heart calms, the breathing smoothens, the sweat subsides. with great reluctance, the descend begins.... a reverse order of events accompanied by light instead of darkness. a new year, a new sunrise, a new resolution! p.s. do check out kcc farmers' market at the foot as a reward for your successful hike completion!

This is a must do hike for those outdoor lovers. It's a do able hike; but can be challenging... inclines; uneven pavement; narrow tunnel; stairs. It's a good workout for anyone. Wear tennis shoes and bring a bottle of water. * Make reservations prior to coming here; makes things a lot easier* The views are worth it and breath taking. Lookout points aren't that big; so sometimes have to wait your turn.

When visiting Hawaii, there's often an expectation to book expensive activities, but I'm here to tell you that the Diamond Head hike is an incredible experience that's both affordable and memorable. All you need to do is reserve your tickets onlind in advance for a time slot that works best for you. We chose the 9-10 AM slot, which was perfect for beating the midday heat. For our group of four, the tickets cost just around $20. We also took an Uber from Waikiki to the trailhead, which cost about $15-$20 and was super convenient. If Ubers are busy when you're ready to leave, no worries; there are taxis waiting at the entrance. The hike itself was relatively easy, even for our two sons, ages 8 and 10. They loved the adventure, from the scenic views to exploring the WWII bunkers and the sense of accomplishment from reaching the summit. We completed the whole hike in about an hour. If you're traveling with kids, consider turning it into a full day of fun! After the hike, we took another Uber to the nearby aquarium and then walked over to the Honolulu Zoo. It made for a perfect day of nature and animals. Diamond Head is a must do activity in Oahu which is aan affordable, family-friendly, and packed with unforgettable views!

Certainly any trip to Honolulu needs a visit to this famous site of amazing geology. Diamond Head State Monument is just about the most famous landmark in Hawaii. It's the highlight for sure of Waikiki. Famous for its use in photography, especially on calendars and postcards that let people show off where they've been. This is crazy that it used to be an active volcano, but now people are on top of it, making duck faces and posting selfies. A lot of the island of O'ahu was created by its eruptions. It's been for than 150,000 years since the last one. This means hiking it will be pretty safe. Of course it's always important to be prepared before going. There's bathrooms and water fountains at the base, along with some food options. Getting up it can be hard but it's also fun. There's two sets of stairs, so there's lots of stepping. Also there's a tunnel that was used by the military. The Birkheimer Tunnel is another one that's currently used by the State Civil Defense Agency, interesting stuff. It takes about 30 minutes or so to get to the top of it. There's views of the islands of Lanai and Molokai. It got its name when British sailors noticed the sparking calcite crystals on the beach and crater. The federal government built some structures allowing the use for coastal artillery defenses in the 1930s. Then after the Pearl Harbor attack, they built more as well as foxholes and pillboxes. A lot of these are still here. The entire site was later made a monument. For sure it's a must visit for tourists, even if they just want to party on the beach. It's open from 6 A.M. to 6 P.M. The entrance is at Diamond Head Road and 18th Avenue, where there's bathrooms and usually food trucks.

If you are staying in Waikiki, you can't miss it. The unmistakable Diamond Head State Monument. On our previous trip to Hawaii, we saw it, but unfortunately missed out, due to Covid restrictions. This time, we were committed to hiking this iconic landmark, and we are sure glad we did.This is more than your usual hike. It's challenging, but not overly so. It has spectacular vistas for incredible photo ops. And, of course, lots of history. More than 300,000 years of it. Must admit, after watching some of the videos on its website, we were wondering if we were up for the challenge. However, if you are up to it, it's worth it. We are not what you would consider superfit, expert hikers, but we do like to hike and trek about. We would classify it as moderate difficulty. The path is well marked with plenty of places to take a rest. The beginning is paved, wide, and only a slight incline. As you progress, the path grows narrower, and less smooth. Your ascent has plenty of switchbacks to ease the vertical rise. At points the path narrows to a single person width, and is pretty rough, but passable on foot with a good walking shoe. Everyone talks about the tunnel, which is pretty cool, and offers some great video options. Once you exit the tunnel you can choose a very difficult path to the top, or less difficult. We took the less difficult. At the very end is where you encounter the most challenging part, with steep climbs and stairs. However, plenty of people make it, and you are rewarded with some of the most outstanding views of the Pacific, Waikiki, the Mountains, and the crater floor. There's even some war era pill boxes to explore. Definitely worth what's really a short moderate hike. We did it in just over 30 minutes, and weren't rushing, but we weren't stopping often either. We spent about 2 hours total, but most of that was at the top. Once at the top, we could see how people could get in trouble. It was busy, but not crowded the day of our visit. Some acted like they were walking around their house. While generally safe, we always have a healthy respect for nature, and the toll it can extract if you are not aware and careful. Unfortunately, we did see some folks walk around fences and take risks to get that perfect photo. Not only to risk harming the monument, you risk seriously harming yourself. Fences and signs are there for a reason. Rant completed. Recommend doing a little research on Diamond Head and the surrounding area before going. It will help you gain perspective, and add to the experience. Understanding the volcano and how it was formed, the cultural significance to native Hawaiians, how the name changed from Le'ahi to Diamond-you can thank the colonizers again, its use as a military installation during World War II, then ultimately transitioning to a landmark and state monument. They do offer a trail map at the entrance and there is a small visitor hut, with retail, water and restrooms. Some other tips include - get your entry ticket online, early. They limit the number of visitors each day. Most advise going early to avoid the mid-day heat. We went mid-day, and while hot, it wasn't unbearable. Though it wasn't at the height of summer, either. There is little shade. Lather up with sunscreen and take water. The last water station is at the visitor hut, bring enough to last. Sturdy walking shoes are fine. The path gets rocky and uneven, but you won't need hiking boots, unless that's what you want to wear. Hang on to your hat. It gets windy, and you can see a few hats on the side of the mountain. Take your time, take your lunch, and take in the view. We enjoyed hanging out at the top having lunch. Trash cans are sparse on the trail, so plan to bring your trash out with you. The hike to the summit isn't for everyone, but there are other accessible trails with some decent lookout points for those with limited mobility . Diamond Head is well known, and most people will make it a part of the Hawaiian stay. We found it enjoyable, busy, but not overcrowded. While a matter of personal taste and preference, we did the hike up the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse trail as well, and found it equally, if not better, in the spectacular views category. It's a great no-cost alternative. One thing that made it extra special was Taco Tuesday so I stop by in this Mexican grill restaurant on situated in Wikiki Boulevard and got me a couple burritos and 2 bottles of watered my lunch was delicious with incredible views, needless to say everyone look kind a jelly lol so keep that in mind and TAKE YOUR TRASH when you leave this awesome park.

Diamond Head State Monument is one of the top attractions on Oahu and for good reason. Not only is it one of the top attractions, it's the top hike in town. On my last day in Honolulu, I made my way to Diamond Head on a Saturday afternoon. Don't be like me and plan ahead. You have to have a ticket (for a small fee) to enter. You can do so on their website. I didn't have a ticket but luckily, I was able to purchase one online right then and there and get in without a wait. Diamond Head is on military property and that's what it started out as before it became open to the public. As you enter, there's a small gift shop and some bathrooms. You can purchase an audio guide if you'd like to learn more about the history of Diamond Head. I didn't but wish I had. Even without an audio guide, there are opportunities to read on your hike where you can learn. I'm a hiker and I'd say this is a moderate-easy hike. There's some incline and some stairs. You'll go through a tunnel. And it can be hot depending on when you're there without much shade. There are tougher hikes on Oahu and there are kids who do this hike so that should tell you everything you need to know. It's an enjoyable hike with spectacular views of the island once you get to the top. Not only spectacular but iconic views that you see in pictures. I'm happy I went on my last day in Oahu as I was able to see Honolulu from a helicopter level to end my trip. A fitting way to do so.

Make sure to get your reservations and check list off your list. The walk is pretty uneven, with a steady climb up and there are stairs, wear a good walking shoe. It is crowded but worth the memories and views. Also, please make sure you bring water!!! I have seen visitors get helicoptered off the top, and you do not want this to happened to you. So just take your time and stay hydrated. It does get hot. Also, watch out for your hat at the top the wind will blow it off.

Christmas holiday excursion with my family while in Honolulu. The trail can be exhausting so for those with less endurance, you will take frequent breaks and for those with a lot less endurance you will probably only make it halfway. My sons, 23 and 17 made it all the way to the top, although I must admit, they beat me by 20 minutes! Some areas can be quite narrow and steep but it was really a sense of accomplishment to do it, and the views are great. Use the restrooms before beginning the hike and treat yourself to a trinket from the small little souvenir shop when you're done.

We took the #2 bus in from Waikiki, which dropped us off at the bottom of the hill, approximately a half mile walk to the entrance of Diamond Head. You'll walk through a tunnel, which exits you to the inside of the crater. Pre registration is required, with a $5 fee due at the time of registration. We had a 1 hour window from 9am-10am to enter. During peak seasons, expect it to be very busy. Restrooms, picnic benches, and a small visitor center are available before you start your hike. Although it's only a .o8 hike to the top, we found it to be at a a moderate level, with uneven rocky paths, steep inclines, and lots of stairs. We saw many people struggle, which slowed everyone down. Passing someone can be difficult with tightly spaced paths and large crowds. There are many spots on this hike where you'll be in very close quarters with many people. With all this being said, the views at the top were absolutely gorgeous! Take a minute to appreciate the views and to take some beautiful pics. My suggestion, go early to avoid crowds and the heat. Wear sunscreen, appropriate footwear, and don't forget water and snacks.

Not for the weak! Make sure you are in shape and well hydrated as this hike will kick your butt. The views are incredible from up above.

If you are visiting Oahu, Diamond Head is a must-visit! We arrived at around 7 in the morning to do this hike through Kaimana tours. There seemed to be plenty of parking available during this time so in hindsight if I ever do this hike again I would park our rented car here instead of opting for the group tour hike. Since we were limited to 2 hours for our tour, we tried to hike as fast as we could (while taking a couple breaks on the way to take photos). It took about 30 minutes for us to reach the peak. Once we were there, there was a lineup to take photos at the top platform. It was very windy at the top so be aware in case you are wearing a loose hat. Since it was early in the morning it was still quite comfortable weather for hiking. The view of the ocean and the island was incredible! The hike itself is not very challenging but if you are going with elderly or small children, just exercise a bit of caution as it might be a bit tough as they gradually go up (the paths can be uneven as they are not paved of course) and there is a dark tunnel to go through before heading a couple flights of stairs to the top. Wish I was able to catch the sunrise on this hike! This hike provided the best views on our trip. If you decide to go, try to go early as possible to avoid crowds and the heat.

This is a must for your to-do list in Honolulu! It has amazing views of Waikiki beach as well as some of the other islands if the weather is right! I would consider this an easy hike. It's 0.8 miles and it took us an hour and a half RT with several stops for pictures. There's an intersection where you can go right for stairs or left for the scenic route. If you choose the stairs it will be the hardest part of the hike. We chose the stairs up and took the scenic route back down. It's recommended that you reserve a time for the hike, doesn't need to be too far in advance we did ours the night before! It's $5 per person. There are a few options for transportation but Uber/Lyft worked perfectly for us both ways. We started the hike just after sunrise which was perfect. Not too too many people and finished before it got too hot.

We were not able to go into Diamond Head to do the hike since we were not prepared for the entry fee. However, we did walk to it and up to the side of it. It is amazing to see it up close and very different. We walked from town which is a good walk and started to incline up the hill. Next time we will make the needed reservations and hike through it!

Intermittent rain caused us to not hike up to the summit of Diamond Head (Lē'ahi). Let me rephrase; intermittent rain, full stomaches, and laziness caused us not to hike up to the summit of Diamond Head. So instead, you will enjoy my pictures of being in the crater and beginnings of the trail as if we were legit hiking to the summit. That's all I can offer. Oh, and make reservations to visit online. All of what you need to know is on their website https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/ It goes without saying, check the weather and dress appropriately. Like, if you're planning to hike, don't wear flip flops. That sort of thing.

This was a really nice hike and there are some lovely views at the top. It's not near as terrifying as Koko Head. You have to make a reservation online and there is a small fee for parking. The climb isn't that steep but it is a good deal of walking. There are a lot of different platforms at the top to look out on beautiful Waikiki and Honolulu.

Came up here for our training. It was a beautiful morning and a wonderful sight to look at. Sunrise was golden! We got to train in the bunkers there. It wasn't too bad or as harsh as I thought it would've been. I actually enjoyed myself and had a lot of fun! Thank you to my hubby for coming along with me too! I love you Myko! Although you did piss me off! HEHEHE KIDDING! He did so much better than me. I'm so glad he was my partner. This kind of stuffs comes so natural for him. For me, it's so frustrating because I'm not so in tuned like he is, so, I don't really pick up that quick. But once I know or I learn, I tend to stick to that and try to follow what was taught or shown. Im just glad I dragged him along for this CERT training. lol! Now we're BOTH Certified! Yay!!!

One of the most scenic trails in the Honolulu area with magnificent vistas. Non-Hawaiian residents need reservations. Be prepared for a continuous feed of people. Many lookout areas on the ascent. The summit has jaw dropping views. It's also notable that one is inside of a volcano crater. Great historical importance as a military installation dating back to WWI . Much of the mountain was perforated with pill boxes. You can go into some of the passageways and connect to the trails. Drones are prohibited. Great hike

This hike is pretty easy and good for beginners. Unfortunately, there are no shades anywhere on the whole hike. The view is beautiful from the top. Make sure to take water with you!

Diamond head hike is an absolute must!! We had the best experience! Loved the hike! Mostly paved, and very well taken care of grounds! Breathtaking views that you will forever remember!

If you are staying in Waikiki I highly recommend spending a few hours hiking Diamond Head. Remember to get a pass beforehand. Parking is limited, but we rented e-bikes and were able to get there and "park" easy peasy. The beginning of the hike is paved and then goes into a clear path slow incline switch backs. its good for beginners and makes a nice loop. Note: when you get to the top crawl into the fort and take the spiral staircase to complete the loop. It felt wrong so we ended up missing out.

We had a great time visiting diamond head! We got a Lyft to take us to almost the entrance (there is a tunnel that switches which way traffic can go through so it's easier to get dropped off before that). We showed our pre purchased tickets at the entrance and we were free to enter and stay as long as we wanted. The hike was definitely a little more intense than I was expecting, but not the hardest I've done! There were plenty of places/several viewpoints where you could stop for pictures, drink your water, and relax a bit before continuing on. Everyone was pretty friendly on the trail and respectful of the different athletic abilities. The view from the top was great! I'd say to try to get there a little earlier in the day because we were there around 11 and it was HOT!! Definitely worth the stop!

We were planning on making it before the sunrise but didn't work out. Being locals we get in for free and do not have to pay for parking. Everyone in car has to show IDS to prove we are all Hawaii Residents. We headed up the uneven cement trail making our way up the trail which also had handrails. It was early but the exposed trail was already growing warm and already had a lot of tourist traffic. Make sure to bring water. Once we were closer to the top we went through a short tunnel and start climbing stairs finally to the top. It was busy. The views were nice 360 degree of mountains, Honolulu, crater and the ocean.

Went to Diamond Head with a friend before the Honolulu marathon. It was a really great hike! We walked from our hotel (1.5 miles) and really enjoyed the challenge! Lots of elevation quick (steep points and steps), definitely have to watch your step. There wasn't too much traffic on an early Friday morning. Gives great views of the ocean, and it's a state park, so why not! If you have kiddos with you, highly recommend stopping by the kiosk at the bottom and asking for a Junior Ranger packet. It's a really fun activity that teaches you a lot about the local flora and fauna, and has reflection questions about your journey. At the end you can earn a really cute die cut wooden badge. There are also plenty of nearby locations to eat afterwards. Highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time. They are strict and will check to see if you've made a reservation and have at the correct arrival time. Definitely helped to mitigate big crowds. So definitely plan ahead!

Hiking a volcano in Honolulu, Hawaii... This is a must for visitors because it's an unusual activity when you're on vacation. You can go home and tell everyone that you went inside of a volcanic crater! I did this hike at least twice in the past: A long time ago, I took my cousin's daughter from San Francisco when she attended summer school at Iolani... Many years ago, Joie, Jules, and I did this hike. I can't remember much... that's why I went again on 4-1-24... FEES: out-of-town visitors must make a reservation online and pay entrance and parking fees Residents must show their ID to get in FREE - yes! Admission and parking are free for Kama'aina!!! Remember to bring water, wear a visor, and use sunscreen! I saw one barefoot guy, a few people with dress shoes, and some wore flip-flops. The trail starts out smooth and paved, then inclines into jagged rocky, uneven surface with some loose gravel here and there. After the first set of stairs, the tunnel has low lights, so flashlights aren't needed anymore! To reach the summit, it's recommended that hikers go to the left, then up the metal stairs - instead of going up the 99 concrete steps. The path loops around so that the 99 steps lead you down to that point of separation. The views are great; the fresh breeze was appreciated; and the slightly overcast day was a blessing!

The iconic landmark on the island of Oahu: DIAMOND HEAD STATE MONUMENT. Add this to your bucket list to earn some bragging rights. "I climbed to the top of that crater!" Entry & Parking reservations are now required for non-residents. I paid $15 total for 3 of us to enter by car and hike the trail. It was my umpteenth hike here, but it was a first for my niece and her husband. The goal was to watch the sunrise from the summit. We started at 6:30am and reached the top by 7:00am. Probably would've been sooner, but with others on the trail and photo taking in between, we still made it in good time to enjoy the sunrise. The restrooms and a tiny souvenir shop are available at the trailhead. There are no facilities at the top, so plan ahead. Be sure and stop to smell the plumeria!

You must make a reservation online to do this hike. Be sure to book in advance! I booked a few days in advance and was unable to get any morning times so I opted for the next best thing which was the 12-2pm time slot. I bought both two entries and parking in my booking. Upon arriving, we got our tickets scanned by the park ranger booth. You must arrive within the first 30 minutes of your reserved time since the park ranger said our parking would expire exactly at 2pm. They did have bathrooms and refreshments available. The hike starts out on a paved pathway but then turns into a rocky trail. Please do your feet a favor and wear athletic shoe wear for this. It goes up at an incline consistently thoughout and there are a few sets of long stairs to trek up. The heat was intense the higher we got up but the views were spectacular once you've reached the very top. You can see the ocean and city so clearly from a bird's eye. It was neat to see the bunkers they used too for the military. Take small breaks as needed and don't forget to bring water! The views are worth it. This was a a harder hike than mokapu'u lighthouse trail in my opinion, so I'm glad I did that one first before diamond head. It took us about 1.5 hours to complete and head back to our car.

Magnificent hike.....highly recommend!! POSITIVES incredible 360 degree views Some shade and seating breakpoint spots Visitor center shop Water refilll stations Clean bathrooms Shaded Picnic tables/benches near parking lot Few shaded parking spots if you arrive early NEGATIVE Packed with visitors no matter the time Constant 2way hiker traffic Lots of folk coughing up a storm Humid and hot in May

Definitely should be on your to do list when visiting Oahu. Must make reservations through Hawaii State Parks or go with a tour group. We went at 0600 and were able to watch the sunrise and avoid the heat. Wasn't terribly crowded and folks mostly stayed to themselves that early in the morning. The hike wasn't overly strenuous, but it is a fairly steady climb with a sometimes rough trail. Took us about 30-35 min to make the climb at a leisurely pace. Great views at the top and some neat places to explore. Breeze was nice too. You can also see Maui and Molokai. Wear comfortable shoes. Flip flops would be a mistake. Recommend making early morning reservations as I imagine it's probably brutal anytime after about 10 AM. Reservations open about 2-3 weeks in advance, Hawaii Standard Time, prior to the day you want to visit. Be ready, because they go quickly. We saw several folks without reservations get turned away while we were there.

We had such a fun time exploring Diamond Head as a family. Definitely make a reservation in advance for the hike and parking. Bring water and good shoes.

It's a must do whenever you're in Waikiki. It's not a hard hike so it should be pretty easy for everyone. Mainly on a path the whole way up with some cobble stone parts here and there. It is uphill but not crazy steep. But the views are amazing starting off and ending at the top. Be advise that you will be encountering other hikers so going up and down so share the path. We've even seen people hiking with flip flops and bare foot. To each their own. At the top, it can get busy as everyone is there taking pictures and enjoying the view of Waikiki. Took us about 20 min up normal pace and stopping every few times to take pictures and enjoy the view. Round trip about an hour with pictures breaks and a nice break at the top enjoying the scenery. There's a faster way up or down with stairway. Its juts cuts off the winding path and takes you straight up to the top. Also going through a bunker. Overall, nice great place to have a quiet hike. You do need to make reservations for entering. There is a few for entering and parking. We took the trolley in from the city which runs about every hour.

We came to the Diamond head state monument just for the hike to the top of the outlook, there are some other things the park offers but time was short during our weekend visit so we didn't get to check anything else out. Since this attrition is a popular tourist site make sure you visit their website for details on parking and making reservations time slots to come for the hike up Diamond head at least a day or two in advance. We were staying in the hotel resort part of town on Waikiki Beach which was only 2 miles away so we just walked over to the park, showed our online reservations and walked right in to start out hike. After we were done we noticed there's a few bus routes on Diamond Head Rd (the street we walked up to get here) and for $3 we were able to take the back back right to the resort area where we were staying. So if parking or driving here might be a concern there are other affordable options to get to the park.

Kamaʻāina pull up with your i.d. and you're good. No cost or reservation required. Park and head up the trail to the top. It's easy and kid walk friendly ( no I don't mean strollers). Relatively smooth path with stairs as well. Great views once you reach the top.

***DO NOT hike this trail if you aren't physically capable of handling steep uphill climbs, tight spaces, and/or stairs!*** Diamond Head is a challenging, fun out-and-back hike to a lookout with amazing views of the south coast of Oahu! The trail features a significant elevation increase and a lot of stairs. But the views at the top make the strenuous climb well worth the effort! The trail starts with interesting plant life on either side of a paved path. Even after the paved portion stops, the unpaved trail is never too unruly; it's pretty well worn throughout. There's also a narrow tunnel that's fun to pass through as you approach the final leg, as a fun change of setting toward the top. Be sure to make a reservation in advance! Time slots fill up quickly. It's definitely worth the price of entry for a fun challenge and an opportunity for amazing views!

Great place to hike if you're in the Waikiki area. It's close to the zoo, Kalakua Avenue and where all the action is on the strip by the beach. This hike is totally doable and good for kids. There are lots of stairs close to the top so just be prepared for that if you're going with small children or elderly. Otherwise, it is definitely a great hike for the whole family. You can drive and park for a fee or have Lyft/Uber take you. We took a Lyft and it was super easy. Bring a bottled water! We went early November so the weather was perfect. Not hot at all! I've done this hike before when it was scorching hot and it wasn't pleasant.

Reservations are required. I'm used to exercising in air-conditioned gyms and not outside (especially since it's supposed to be hotter in the crater than normal) so felt like I was overheating halfway through! I also got really dizzy once we sat back on the trolley bus and would recommend bringing electrolytes. There's a water refill station and bathrooms near the entrance as well as a map/guide (pictured). The hike is only about 0.8 miles one way (climbs to 560 feet above the crater floor) and includes around 200 stairs halfway through. The views of the deep blue ocean were amazing!

If you're not a morning person... you should be for this hike. The views were downright breathtaking! We did the 6am hike so we could see the sunrise and don't regret that decision at all. We did the hike in late December so the sunrise was about 7:15 which was perfect because it takes an hour to to go up with the "shortcut" and an hour and a half-ish to go the long way. We opted for the shortcut which just meant tackling some steep stairs and steeper hills verses a gradual incline. When we started it was completely dark, many people (including us) brought mini flashlights because the path starts out paved, then changes to steeper gravel, then natural rocks, then some stone stairs and finally if you take the shortcut you take a narrow spiral staircase to the top. Once we got there there were already about 30 people at the peak, but we managed to find a place for our family to wait 40 mins until the sun was to come up. It was a gradual rise, but so beautiful! We did the trek with a 3 yr old who we carried 70% of the way and then walked the last 30%. Definitely tiring for the arms, but you can't really take a stroller up there. He also walked the whole way down (going the longer way to avoid the spiral staircase) and was totally fine. There were a few moments where the rocks were a little slippery, but if you're watching where you step it's not too bad. I saw people of all ages and body types making the trek and even a few people running it as a workout! ****You do have to make a reservation to hike Diamond Head now, so make sure you go online and do so** we also paid like $5 bucks for parking, but several people just parked outside of the national park area and did a pre-hike walk to get to the entrance. Definitely recommend this hike and if you're lucky like us, you might catch a rainbow!

Extreme crowds but an iconic view. I'm glad we did this hike only because, well, when you're in Honolulu you really can't NOT go here. The problem was not the climb itself--which is about a mile straight up to the summit, exerting but quite doable if you pace yourself. The problem was that at 9:30 am on a Sunday in January there were hundreds and hundreds of other tourists jostling by one another on a very narrow steep trail. It was actually pretty ghastly. The reward at the top is a majestic perspective on the dormant volcanic crater that is Diamond Head, as well as the Waikiki coast and various mountain ranges. Had we known about the crowds we would have gotten there much earlier. By the way while it's true you have to reserve timed tickets ($5) in advance, in fact no matter what time you book, they will allow you to enter the reserve earlier. Eg, the earliest we could reserve online was noon and they let us in at 9:30.

Great hike just minutes from Honolulu! A must-do when you are on Oahu, you will get stunning views of the area and the coast. Make sure you make reservations through the Hawaii Parks Department- we almost forgot and managed to snag the last time slot of the day the night before. The park closes around 6 pm and you get a two hour window to do the hike. That's plenty of time, as the trail is not long. There is an elevation gain and several sets of stairs at the end, but take it slow and you will be just fine. 100% recommended hike that's great for families too.

Tl:dr: conveniently located in town, this hike is short, easy, has a great view, which makes it the people' choice. During high season the trail is super crowded pretty much around the clock. If you want to avoid the crowd come early morning, otherwise be prepared to rub shoulders with everybody. If you're reasonably fast it takes ~30 minutes round trip even with the crowd. There is no shade which again makes early morning an ideal time. You get a great panoramic view on top. Crowd is the biggest downside of this hike.

Go early cuz it's hot. Beautiful views. Not a bad hike. There's some shade and rest stops but just enjoy the view