Diamond Head Crater

The iconic silhouette of Diamond Head State Monument, juxtaposed against the Honolulu skyline and nestled against Waikiki Beach, has become one of Hawaii's most recognizable landmarks. It's also a popular hiking destination, offering panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu's South Coast. Diamond Head features a 175-step walking trail, dark underground tunnels, and Fort Ruger, a remnant of a military bunker. Lunch is also available at the Kapiolani Community College Farmer's Market, located at the memorial entrance on Monsarrat Avenue. Local snacks and locally grown produce are available.

Attractions Location: Honolulu, Hawaii, United States

Tickets:
Admission: $5; Parking: $10

Opening hours:
06:00-18:00; Last admission: 16:00 (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)

Official phone number: Ticketing Inquiry
+1-808-5870300

Transportation:
Take bus No. 3, 9, 23 or 24 and get off at Diamond Head Rd + 18th Ave stop. Follow the signs for the park.

Time reference: More than 3 hours


Recommended itinerary for Diamond Head Crater tours

1-Day Itinerary: Diamond Head Crater and Waikiki Highlights

Start your day with a hike up Diamond Head Crater for panoramic views, then enjoy the famous Waikiki Beach area.

  • Morning: Hike Diamond Head Crater Trail (1.5-2 hours round trip). Parking available near the crater entrance.
  • Late Morning: Head to Waikiki Beach (5-10 min drive or bus #23 from Diamond Head Rd). Relax on the beach or try paddleboarding.
  • Afternoon: Explore Kalakaua Avenue for shopping and local eateries.
  • Evening: Dinner at Duke’s Waikiki or House Without a Key for Hawaiian cuisine and sunset views.

Transport: Taxi or rideshare from Waikiki to Diamond Head (10 min). Alternatively, TheBus routes #2 or #23 run regularly between Waikiki and Diamond Head area.

Accommodation/Food: Stay at hotels near Waikiki Beach such as the Sheraton Waikiki or Moana Surfrider. Plenty of dining options from casual to upscale.

Souvenirs: Diamond Head Visitor Center offers postcards, local art prints, and Hawaiian souvenirs. Waikiki shops sell aloha shirts, jewelry, and ukuleles.


2-Day Itinerary: Diamond Head Crater and Honolulu Cultural Sites

Combine your Diamond Head hike with a day exploring Honolulu’s cultural and historic sites.

  • Day 1: Follow the 1-day itinerary above.
  • Day 2 Morning: Visit Iolani Palace and Bishop Museum to learn Hawaiian history (15 min drive from Waikiki).
  • Day 2 Afternoon: Explore Chinatown for art galleries, markets, and lunch.
  • Day 2 Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Pig & The Lady or a local seafood spot.

Transport: TheBus routes #20 and #13 connect Waikiki to downtown Honolulu and Chinatown. Taxis and rideshares are widely available.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Waikiki or downtown Honolulu for easy access to cultural sites.

Souvenirs: Bishop Museum gift shop offers books and cultural crafts; Chinatown markets have unique local goods.


3-Day Itinerary: Diamond Head, Waikiki & East Oahu Exploration

Add a scenic drive along Oahu’s east coast with beautiful beaches and natural sites.

  • Days 1-2: Follow previous itineraries.
  • Day 3 Morning: Drive or take a guided tour to Hanauma Bay for snorkeling (20 min from Waikiki).
  • Day 3 Afternoon: Visit Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail for coastal views (15 min from Hanauma Bay).
  • Day 3 Evening: Return to Waikiki for dinner or attend a traditional luau show.

Transport: Car rental recommended for east coast exploration. Some shuttle tours also available.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Waikiki or near Hanauma Bay if preferred. Sample fresh seafood and Hawaiian specialties.

Souvenirs: Hanauma Bay gift shop offers ocean-themed gifts; Waikiki markets sell handmade jewelry and aloha wear.


4-Day Itinerary: Diamond Head, Waikiki & North Shore Adventure

Explore Oahu’s famous North Shore with beaches, surfing spots, and local culture.

  • Days 1-3: Follow previous itineraries.
  • Day 4 Morning: Drive to North Shore (approx. 1-hour drive). Visit Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach.
  • Day 4 Afternoon: Stop at the Polynesian Cultural Center or explore Haleiwa town for shopping and lunch.
  • Day 4 Evening: Return to Waikiki or stay overnight in North Shore area.

Transport: Car rental essential for North Shore day trips. Shuttle tours also offered.

Accommodation/Food: Options include staying in Waikiki or local B&Bs on the North Shore. Try shrimp trucks and local eateries.

Souvenirs: Haleiwa shops sell surf gear, local art, and tropical-themed gifts.


5-Day Itinerary: Full Oahu Experience Centered on Diamond Head

Enjoy a comprehensive Oahu visit including urban, coastal, and cultural highlights.

  • Days 1-4: Follow previous itineraries.
  • Day 5 Morning: Visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial (30 min from Waikiki by car or bus #20).
  • Day 5 Afternoon: Explore downtown Honolulu or relax at Ala Moana Beach Park.
  • Day 5 Evening: Attend a sunset sail or enjoy a beachfront dinner.

Transport: Car or TheBus #20 for Pearl Harbor; rideshares available.

Accommodation/Food: Waikiki or downtown Honolulu recommended. Seafood and Hawaiian fusion restaurants abound.

Souvenirs: Pearl Harbor gift shop sells military memorabilia and Hawaiian crafts.


6-Day Itinerary: Oahu’s Nature and Culture

Explore more natural and cultural experiences around Diamond Head and Oahu.

  • Days 1-5: Follow previous itineraries.
  • Day 6 Morning: Visit Lyon Arboretum and Manoa Falls (20 min drive from Waikiki).
  • Day 6 Afternoon: Explore the Honolulu Museum of Art or shopping in Ala Moana Center.
  • Day 6 Evening: Dinner at a rooftop restaurant with city views.

Transport: Car rental or bus #5 to Manoa Falls; taxis/rideshares convenient.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Waikiki or Ala Moana. Try farm-to-table restaurants and local cafés.

Souvenirs: Arboretum gift shop offers botanical products; museum shop sells Hawaiian art and crafts.


7-Day Itinerary: Ultimate Diamond Head and Oahu Exploration

Spend a week immersing yourself in the beauty, culture, and history of Diamond Head and all of Oahu.

  • Days 1-6: Follow previous itineraries.
  • Day 7: Leisure day: revisit favorite spots, shop local markets in Waikiki, or enjoy beach time and spa treatments.

Transport: Flexible use of rental car, TheBus, and rideshares.

Accommodation/Food: Stay at luxury resorts or boutique hotels in Waikiki. Sample diverse dining including poke bowls, plate lunches, and fine dining.

Souvenirs: Wide variety from Hawaiian quilts, local coffee, tropical jewelry, to Cholo-themed souvenirs available in Waikiki and Diamond Head Visitor Center.


User Reviews

By Bai Yu |

We took a light hike along the well-developed trails. The sign at the park entrance stated that the latest departure time for the hike was 4:30 and the park closed at 6:00, but the actual time was later than this. Many people entered after 5:00, and it was already past 6:30 when we went down the mountain and left Diamond Head National Park after watching the sunrise.

The hike started with a gentle slope at the bottom of the crater valley. On the way, there were large groups of red-crowned waxbills pecking at the grass on the roadside. They were not afraid of people at all.

After that, we started to climb in a zigzag pattern when we approached the inner wall of the caldera. We also passed through a tunnel in the middle. Except for the last section of stairs which had a slight slope, the rest were very flat. We even saw many elderly people hiking here.

As the relative altitude increases, the view begins to become vast. Looking to the north, you can see the towering mountains in central Oahu and large areas of white houses built against the mountainside near the lower slopes. To the east, you can see some bays and volcanoes by the sea. There is one volcano I plan to hike on the 7th. To the south is the endless sea. Looking to the west, you can see the skyscrapers in downtown Honolulu and Pearl Harbor in the distance.

There were still quite a lot of tourists at the moment, and I felt embarrassed to lie along the railing for too long for fear of disturbing others taking photos, so I just walked around.

The bunker at the highest point holds a hidden gem. A spiral staircase leads to the bunker's firing rooms on different levels, while a passage leads to the small tunnel entrance on the way up. There's more than one bunker; in fact, there are many more along the ridge of the caldera. I've even seen some unruly hikers walking along the ridge, giving it a real off-road running vibe.

However, according to the park regulations, visitors are not allowed to go beyond the trail.

We waited quietly for the sunset at the highest point. Although there were not many people, everyone seemed to completely ignore the rule that Diamond Head closes at 6 o'clock. Although it was just an ordinary sunset at sea, it still attracted about a dozen people to wait patiently.

It turns out that it’s wise to bring a jacket, as the temperature on the mountain drops below 25 degrees Celsius in the evening when the sun is about to sink into the horizon. But there’s no need to bring a drone, as the entire Diamond Head volcano is a military no-fly zone.

By Yu Qingyun |

On the way up the mountain, we met a Chinese man who saw my outfit (dress + sandals + parasol) and said, "It's very tiring to climb like this." We laughed.

The entire climb was along a circular mountain road. Although there were a few more stones, it was not very tiring, so it felt like we had only climbed for a while. I came to feel the suddenly open scenery. It had been a long time since I saw such a blue sea, and my mood was suddenly relaxed.

By Jerry |

This commanding point on Oahu is an ideal spot for watching the sunrise and sunset. However, due to the park's limited opening hours (6-18), you can usually only see the sunrise. If you leave after sunset, the park gates will be locked. The summit features a wartime bunker and arsenal, offering panoramic views of the crater and Oahu's southern coastline.

By Little donkey Dandan wants to struggle |

The ascent is easy, about 40 minutes. The sunsets here are also renowned. Parking is scarce on the mountain, and after waiting for a while, it felt like no one was around, so we headed down to find a spot. We passed a memorial park, and the staff there enthusiastically pointed us to free parking close to the entrance! The climb to the summit took about 40 minutes, and the wind was incredibly strong, but the panoramic views of Honolulu were truly stunning. I even reached 16,000 steps on WeChat Sports today, the most I've walked this year. Check it out!

By Mandarin |

After visiting KCC Village, it’s a good time to climb Diamond Head Volcano to help digest the food.

The parking lot is small and you have to wander around for a while before you find a parking space. There is also a very beautiful green space next to the parking lot, with a bench where you can bask in the sun, enjoy the breeze, and chat. It is a very charming place.

The mountain is not very steep, so you won't be too anxious. Instead, you will reach the top of the mountain that you thought was so high and far away in no time. Most of the way is a gentle slope with steps and dirt. Only the last section has about 30 meters of steps that are a bit high. You can win by holding on.

The scenery after reaching the top is amazing!

Also included is a view of Diamond Head Volcano from elsewhere~

By Luo Xiaoyu_Raining |

I had nothing to do in the afternoon, so I took my mother to climb the mountain. It is said that Diamond Hill is easy to climb, but it turns out that climbing a mountain is very tiring no matter what!

Get off the bus at the station and walk uphill. You'll see a cave. After passing through it, there's a pineapple stall that seems to be there all year round. This is the real entrance to Diamond Hill, because they're selling tickets!

After passing the ticket booth, there's a long, flat path, flanked by weeds, but with a unique charm. After walking and taking photos for about 15 minutes, we finally reach the mountain's summit. The path is simple, with few stone steps, but some sections are quite steep.

The scenery on the way up the mountain is unique no matter where you go! Every step brings a different view.

The air-raid shelter is now equipped with lights, which are quite bright. There are also shiny substances on the stone walls, minerals, which are very shiny.

Americans are really brave. They walked straight up a steep mountain road with no protection measures... Then they sat down on the pavilion and lay down... Lying down... There was a railing at the entrance of this road, indicating danger! The consequences are at your own risk...

Pineapple smoothie at the entrance! I saw a lot of people buying it on my way down the mountain, using the whole pineapple as a container. It's $10 each, plus $3 for a drink. If you're lucky, you can even get a free pineapple smoothie! The drink wasn't much, but the pineapple inside the container was thick and delicious, so sweet!

By Dream Dream |

You should go to Diamond Head early because its parking lot is a bit small. If you go late, you will have to queue for parking, which is very time-consuming.

After entering the gate, there's a flat section at first, but then it's just a climb, climb, climb, climb. Some sections are quite dangerous. I really admire the Japanese here. Many Japanese people wear leather shoes and carry briefcases to climb the mountain.

By ZJU_10808101 |

Diamond Head is located in southeast Oahu, very close to Waikiki Beach. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the beach. There's a small parking lot at the entrance to Diamond Head, but it's usually impossible to find a spot after 8:30 AM. We arrived late that morning, so we had to drive down the mountain, park in a public parking lot at the base, and then walk uphill to begin our ascent. Diamond Head admission is $1 per person; if you're driving, the fee is $5 per car.

There is an observation deck at the entrance of the hiking trail from the foot of the mountain, where you can see Hanauma Bay and part of the city view of Honolulu in the distance.

By The stars' good friends Fang Fang |

The scenery is really beautiful. The scenery is really beautiful. The scenery is really beautiful.

By Viyalin |

If you have a car, you can go there at 4 pm to watch the sunset, which is very beautiful.

There are many people climbing places that cannot be climbed, be careful

By Fish Flower |

Diamond Head stands proudly against Waikiki Beach, making it one of Hawaii's most famous landmarks.

By Ziziphus Jujuba |

There is a shop near the trail entrance that makes delicious pineapple ice cream and smoothie. They only accept cash. I strongly recommend buying the big pineapple smoothie after you get down the mountain, otherwise it will be too tiring to carry the big pineapple up the mountain.

This hike is recommended by all guides, so there were too many people on the way and at the top of the mountain, but it didn't prevent the view from being beautiful. Looking west, you can see Waikiki, and looking east, you can see Hanauma Bay. It's a must-see place.

By Royal Coconut Milk |

The woman collecting entrance fees at the entrance was very welcoming and carefully explained the route up the mountain. The climb is actually quite easy, all uphill, with no dangerous or steep sections, and the scenery is breathtaking along the way. The unique feature of this place is the stunning mountain and ocean views, along with the lush greenery along the way. Reaching the top is actually quite enjoyable; if you're particularly craving a panoramic view, you can ask the locals once you're there. We simply listened to our Uber driver's recommendations for many other, more beautiful and less sun-drenched peaks, but with no reason to change our minds, we opted for this famous one.

By Fish fillet |

Climbing up to the crater is quite strenuous, mainly due to the many steps. Of course, it would be nice to catch the sunset. Remember that the closing time is 18:30~

By Wang Amei |

The view from the top of the mountain is really amazing, you can see the whole crater and the sea. Although the climb is a bit tiring, it is worth it.

By China-TravelNote user AF7836 |

You can only hike up the mountain, which takes about 40 minutes one way. You are not allowed to enter after 16:30, so pay attention to the time. Since it is a popular tourist attraction, there are many tourists here. Once you reach the top of the mountain, it is bustling. It is recommended to avoid traveling during peak hours.

A standard Hawaiian postcard location, a perfect combination of modern city and sea.

The view from the top of Diamond Mountain is unforgettable, 360 degrees without blind spots, and it is very, very beautiful from any angle!

By Linda Li Li |

The hiking trail isn't challenging, but climbing two sets of 175 steps, including dark tunnels, artillery emplacements, and steep cliffs, is a bit demanding. But reaching the summit and gazing at the stunning views of Waikiki and the entire east coast of Oahu is truly exhilarating.

For those of us who are always looking for mountains to climb, we spent about two hours climbing up and down Diamond Head and sweating. We not only enjoyed the beautiful scenery but also got the benefits of leisure and fitness. It was wonderful!

By lei wu |

The United States, recognizing Hawaii's strategic location, seized it from the Spanish. Diamond Head's fortress offers commanding views of incoming enemies from all directions. Even from an airplane, it's hard to tell it's a military base. From mid-mountain, you can see Coco and Coco Head volcanoes, along with a lighthouse. The vegetation on Diamond Head is mostly ochre-colored, turning green only during heavy rainfall from October to December. Rocks and shells can be seen along the mountainside along the road.

By Snow 3 Flying Who |

The sunrise is so beautiful. It's worth a visit, be sure to go early.

By Observe the people and help their virtues |

If you want to climb the mountain, the bus can go directly there. It is a good place to overlook Waikiki Beach. When you reach the top, someone will give you a small card to prove that you have reached the top.

By Little Ma Ge |

Diamond Mountain, you can drive up the mountain, but you still need to walk to the top of the mountain. The parking lot charges $5 per car

The mountaintop offers a panoramic view of Waikiki Beach

By Stingzzz |

A dormant volcano, from the top of the mountain you can enjoy the scenery of the entire city of Honolulu~

By Yu Dagou |

Diamond Head!

Diamond Head?

Diamond Head?

anyway~

A small hill, it takes half an hour to reach the top easily~

By ryu117 |

Before I went, I thought I could take a car up the mountain and walk down. I was wrong. The only way up was on foot, and it took 40 minutes. Near the top, there were two paths: one with steep steps, a shortcut, and the other, a gentler path. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city, which is beautiful on a clear day. After the walk down, I was exhausted, but I found a small cold drink cart and ordered a delicious pineapple drink.

By Gao Miemie |

Elderly people can also reach it if they climb slowly. Standing on the observation deck at the top of the mountain to take pictures is the best angle to overlook the entire Waikiki Beach, and it is also the source of many Hawaii promotional photos.

By Ladyjj |

Since it was my first time driving into the scenic spot, I wasn't familiar with it. I drove in and then drove around and back out again... In the end, I parked the car at the foot of the mountain. There was no parking fee. I hiked to Diamond Head.

If you're going hiking, please wear sneakers. Bring water and sunscreen! I saw many tourists wearing flip-flops and even high heels, which I admired. I was exhausted even in sneakers.

By Go to bed early every day |

Diamond Hill Park requires the latest entry time to be 16:30, and the park closes at 18:00. It takes about an hour and a half to leisurely climb the mountain and return to the parking lot. So if you want to hike, it is more appropriate to enter the park at 4 pm. The weather is not hot and the light is good when you reach the top of the mountain.

The climb to the top took about half an hour. The path was made of dirt and stone, with a slight incline, but it wasn't tiring. There were two steep flights of stairs, but both were less than 100 steps, so it wasn't long. There were many observation decks along the way, offering views of Waikiki Beach from different angles and heights. Of course, the view from the top was the most beautiful, with the distinct color gradations of the water visible.

By Little fat goose doesn't want meat |

We woke up naturally and prepared to climb Diamond Head. We took a bus to the area near Diamond Head and hiked up. It was very sunny, so those who are afraid of the sun should wear sunscreen or a long-sleeved shirt. We bought a bottle of water at the foot of the mountain, as there's no water for sale at the top. My husband and I were thinking, "We're so well-off here just by selling water at the top. People here are so lazy!" The path was relatively flat at first, but the road afterwards was unpaved, except for the fence on the right side of Picture 2. So comfortable shoes are essential. As we slowly ascended, you'll see the whole of Hawaii at your feet. It's so relaxing.

By White snow |

Because we went too late, there were no parking spaces at Diamond Head, so we could only drive to the public parking lot at the foot of the mountain, which was free. Then we walked up, bought tickets, entered the park and started climbing the mountain. The scenery along the way was nice and the mountain road was relatively flat and easy to walk. If it was a good weather day, it would be even more beautiful. When we reached the observation deck at the top of the mountain, we could see the entire city of Honolulu and Waikiki Beach. It is still worth a visit.

After getting down the mountain, I bought the internet-famous rainbow smoothie from the food cart at the entrance of the scenic area. It really tasted like syrup... I took some photos to cool down, and I never ate it again after that.

By Michaels. |

Diamond Head is a famous extinct volcano in Hawaii. It is also one of the famous attractions that tourists from all over the world must visit when they come to Hawaii. Diamond Head is not very high and it only takes a few minutes to walk up. The main attraction is the scenery on the mountain. The scenery of the sea opposite is very beautiful when you look at it from the mountain.

By Mint |

The view from the top of the mountain is very beautiful and suitable for daily exercise.

By Flame Green |

Beautiful! There were a few people at the top of the mountain, so we took a few photos and then went back. However, the path was not difficult to walk on, and we walked the entire way without any difficulty.

By Joyce |

Diamond Head is really worth visiting. The mountain is not very high and it takes 2 hours to go up and down without feeling tired at all. The scenery along the way is beautiful. After reaching the top, you can see the panoramic view of Honolulu. The turquoise sea and the blue sky are compatible together, which is amazing.

By Bingying is on the road |

It's a very easy mountain trail to climb. From the top of the mountain you can overlook Waikiki, the scenery is beautiful.

By Duanduan and Niels |

Diamond Head is the most famous attraction on Oahu Island and is also the highest point overlooking the coastline. Of course, you must climb to the top to see the entire Waikiki coastline.

I was so focused on looking great that I forgot I was actually hiking. I wore a pair of slippers and a long skirt. Seeing the locals dressed so sportily, I was completely floored. I think hikers should definitely wear sneakers. The climb up was a bit painful, mainly because there were no flat surfaces. I even had foot massages the entire time!

By smallhandxu |

Diamond Hill is not high. The road going up and down the mountain is the same. It is very narrow and the road surface is uneven. The whole journey takes more than 2 hours.

Be sure to wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water.

The 175-step trail leads to the top of the mountain, and is crowded with tourists.

360-degree unparalleled sea, mountain and city views. For this moment, it is worth it no matter how tired you are.

By Walking Tintin Cat |

Hiking Diamond Head in the cool and comfortable winter weather and enjoying the 360-degree views from the top of the mountain, with panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu's south coastline, is truly a pleasure.

By sisi229 |

It's great, the climb is not tiring, and the view overlooking Waikiki is great

By Crystal |

It can't be rated five stars, at most four stars. It is a famous tourist attraction. It is difficult to enter after driving at 8:30 and you have to queue. The scenery is pretty good, but there are too many people and the climb takes too long, so this attraction is a little discounted.

By Programmer Howard |

Diamond Head is one of the landmarks of Oahu Island. It is said that Captain Cook, the first British man to discover the Hawaiian Islands, saw a blue light coming out of the entire mountain at night, sparkling like a sapphire. He thought he had discovered a diamond and named it Diamond Head.



If you're driving to Diamond Hill, arrive before 8:00 AM. After 8:00 AM, it's best to arrive in the afternoon, otherwise there won't be a parking space. The fee is $5 per car, for a single entry.



It takes half an hour to forty minutes to get to the top of Diamond Head from the entrance, so remember to wear comfortable shoes. Diamond Head is the best place to enjoy the scenery of Oahu, with a 360-degree panoramic view. The scenery is absolutely amazing.

By Vicky |

Diamond Head is a classic Honolulu attraction, often packed with people. I find 4:30 PM a good time to avoid the crowds. By then, most people have already descended the mountain to head downtown for dinner, so parking is a bit easier to find. The trail is not difficult, only about 2 miles round trip. It's a bit steep, but overall, I think it's a great value. The views from the top are truly stunning.

By Small fruit |

Today we went to the famous Hawaiian attraction, Drill Head Mountain. Although the climb was tiring, it was worth it just for this one view, overlooking the entire Waikiki. If you don't drive, public transportation is also very convenient, so we took the bus.

By Hawaii has you |

One of Hawaii's most worthwhile destinations, with its 360-degree panoramic views of the ocean, mountains, and city, the only downside is the sheer number of tourists! Hiking here requires comfortable sneakers, sun protection, and water! Diamond Head, located in Honolulu, Oahu, is one of Hawaii's most famous landmarks, right next to Waikiki, which explains its popularity. Formed by volcanic eruptions, Diamond Head is currently extinct and estimated to be between 400,000 and 500,000 years old, though geologists believe it has only been active for a few days. Its name comes from the fact that British sailors, upon discovering Diamond Head in the 19th century, mistook calcite crystals on the beach at its base for diamonds. It also has a Hawaiian name, Le Ahi, which means tuna in Hawaiian, and the shape of Diamond Head's ridge resembles a tuna's dorsal fin. You can drive into the crater through a tunnel. Admission is $1 per pedestrian or $5 per car, cash only. It's open year-round from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but entry to the mountain ends after 4:30 PM. In 1909, the US military established Hawaii's earliest military base here. There's still a 1.4-kilometer trail leading to the top of the mountain. The trail was originally used solely for military purposes, and many military facilities, such as bunkers and tunnels, remain on the mountain. You need to be especially careful when going up and down the mountain, as the stone steps are very steep in some sections, and the tunnels are often dimly lit.

By keepwakin |

Although it is not high, you can see the whole beach from the top of the mountain. It is recommended!

By Lily\LY |

Be prepared for the tiring climb, and even though we left at 4am we didn't catch the sunrise. The view from the top is fantastic, though.

By kate_佳 |

This is a must-see attraction in Oahu. Has anyone missed it? The road up the mountain is very narrow, and there are people exercising crowded together, scorching the sun.

By China-TravelNote users |

From the hotel entrance, take bus No. 23 directly to the base of Diamond Head. Climb up past the cave to the entrance. The fare is $1 per person, while driving costs $5. Inside, there's a restroom, gift shop, and food cart. The climb is initially easy, then becomes a dirt road, which can be dangerous. Hiking shoes are recommended, but we did see people wearing flip-flops. Foreigners visiting here are mostly Japanese, with a few Koreans. We happened to catch a school-organized hike. The students in red in the photo below are singing as they climbed. The view from the top is stunning, but I recommend visiting Diamond Head on a cool day, otherwise it's too hot. The yellow car in the photo below sells snacks. We bought a delicious pineapple smoothie, much better than the one in Haleiwa. It was $4 and huge!

By The charm of the Mediterranean |

This is a landmark attraction on Oahu Island and is worth hiking. Although the vegetation on the mountain is average, you can overlook the entire Oahu Island from the top of the mountain, which is worth a visit.

By God |

The natural scenery here is beautiful, with distinct volcanic rock formations. It's a different kind of natural beauty, unlike the scenery in Hainan, my country...

By ~Peach Yaoyao~ |

I took bus No. 2 from Waikiki to the scenic area. Hawaii's bus system is incredibly convenient, with each stop numbered. You can check which bus routes connect to your current stop and the next bus arrival time by visiting the THEBUS website or downloading the app. Buses announce stops via announcements and displays, and you can also use Google Maps to locate your location.

Diamond Head isn't very high, and the path up and down is the same, narrow and uneven. The entire hike takes about three hours. The only view from the top is stunning, overlooking Waikiki Beach. However, the observation deck at the bottom is very small and crowded (much like other tourist attractions in China). Diamond Head is a nice attraction, but it was the last one I visited on my itinerary.

By queen_9190 |

The overall scenery is still very good. We lived near Waikiki Beach and it took about an hour to walk to the scenic area. Because the air was very good and cool in the morning, we chose to walk. It took about 2 hours to go up the mountain and down. The scenery at the top of the mountain was good and the view was wide. It is suitable for those with better physical strength. Also, you must do a good job of sun protection.

By Miss Sun Momo |

The simple stone path was full of gravel and uneven, with some slopes and steep steps. The sun was strong, so the climb was a bit strenuous, but we reached the top in under an hour! The view from the top was breathtaking, with a panoramic view of Waikiki Beach!

By I am the nose and you are the snot |

It is said that Captain Cook, the first British man to discover the Hawaiian Islands, saw the entire mountain shining with light at night, sparkling like a gem. As the name suggests, it is also the best viewing point on the island, from where you can see the panoramic view of the Waikiki shipwreck and half of Oahu Island.

By Tianya Cloud |

Diamond Head is absolutely stunning, especially when you stand at the top and gaze out. The ocean breeze blows, the waves roll, the blue water ripples, the blue sky and white clouds appear, and you can see the pearl of the Pacific Ocean, Honolulu, standing out against the Pacific Ocean. The boundless Pacific Ocean is breathtaking. And Diamond Head's name is also very nice. I love it.

By North of the Arctic |

The ticket is one dollar, which is a reasonable price. The top of the mountain is very small. You will see many people crowding on it to take pictures. The scenery is still good.

By Follow Yixing |

Diamond Head is one of the landmarks of Honolulu. Climbing to the top of the mountain, you can overlook the entire Waikiki Beach with an extremely broad view. The ticket price is $1 per person, and children are also charged. There are automatic water dispensers in the scenic area. You first walk along a winding mountain path from the underground, then a straight flight of stairs, and finally a spiral staircase to the top. Of course, there are also helicopters responsible for picking up and down the mountain, but I didn’t experience it. There is a food truck in the scenic area that sells drinks and shaved ice. The rainbow shaved ice is delicious, and I recommend you to try one.

By Lulu |

It takes about 20 minutes to climb to the top of the mountain. It is recommended to go in the morning. Parking is very tight in the afternoon and it is very sunny, so you should take good sun protection.

By Lazy Cat |

Looking out at Hanauma Bay, Waikiki, parking is five dollars.

By Dream for fish sauce |

We took the bus to Diamond Hill. There was road construction on the way, so it took a while to find it. Then we took a bus up and bought tickets at the gate. Once inside, we still had to climb a long way. If we hadn't taken the bus beforehand, it would have taken a long time to get to the gate. There were a lot of foreigners running up the mountain. I really don't have the energy. Haha. The scenery was beautiful, and the wind was quite strong. It's worth a visit, as you can see Waikiki.

By Sichuan pepper soy sauce |

Perhaps because we drove up, the whole process seemed rather dull. We drove into a groove and took a look. The fenced-off valley looked exactly like the withered vegetation in Arizona, and I instantly lost the desire to explore. So we drove back around the small payment booth, nodded, and headed out of the tunnel.



The world beyond is truly vast! It's always so relaxing to look at the ocean from a high vantage point! My friends don't like hiking, but otherwise, the hike up from the base wouldn't be that difficult, and the distance would be short. Who knows, even the boring valley would become magical.

By Rain |

Diamond Head is worth a visit, as the top of the mountain overlooks the entire city of Honolulu.

By bobomoon |

A must-see place on Oahu Island. You must climb to the top of the mountain to see the beautiful view of Wikiki. The colorful ice at the foot of the mountain is not delicious.

By Lala & Haha |

Diamond Head on Oahu Island is a must-see place in Hawaii and a great place to climb and look out over Hawaii.

By whulitong |

The scenery on the mountain is beautiful. You can see the whole Pacific Ocean from the observation station at the top. The 40-minute climb is worth it. Tips: Parking is very tight on the mountain. If there is no parking space after going up, you have to drive down and walk up again, so go early.

By Late Evening |

Diamond Head is the most famous hiking route among tourists. After returning from the climb, I summarized that it is most famous for: beautiful scenery, close to Waikiki, and not difficult to climb.

By Doris |

The ticket is one US dollar per person. When you reach the top of the mountain, the water and the sky merge into one, making you feel that all the hard work before is worth it.

By Mandy Xiaofeifei |

Diamond Head is located in the southeastern part of Oahu Island. It used to be a volcano, but now it no longer erupts and has become a paradise for hiking enthusiasts.



It's said the name "Diamond Peak" comes from the ancient belief that it contained a treasure trove of diamonds. However, as we all know, volcanic eruptions certainly don't produce diamonds, so it's just a fantasy. Parking at the foot of the mountain reveals the starting point of the hiking trail. The trail is approximately 1.1 kilometers long, but the climb is quite steep and the path is covered in gravel, making it a relatively tiring hike. The round trip takes between one and a half and two hours.

By Cheng Babu |

You need to climb to the highest point to see the scenery of Waikiki. Remember to bring plenty of water, otherwise it will be very difficult. There are also some artillery towers left over from the war along the way, which is pretty good~

By Small door |

(Heart) DIAMOND HEAD STATE MONUMENT Diamond Hill

The iconic silhouette of Diamond Head State Monument, juxtaposed against the Honolulu skyline and nestled against Waikiki Beach, has become one of Hawaii's most recognizable landmarks. It's also a popular hiking destination, offering panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu's South Shore. Diamond Head features a 175-step trail, dark underground tunnels, and the remains of Fort Ruger, a military bunker.



Tickets: $1 per person, $5 per car, cash only

Opening hours: 6:00-18:00, last access to the trail is 16:30



The mountain is not high or steep, so it is OK for children and the elderly!

But don't learn from me and wear flip-flops~

It’s easier to go up the mountain than to go down!

By Allen |

The scenery is stunning, and you can even see a double rainbow when it rains! I recommend visiting in the morning for a pleasant surprise. You can take the Yellow Line bus directly here, or take bus numbers 23 or 8!

By Love_Platycodon grandiflorum |

Diamond Head is a volcano that overlooks Wakiki Beach. Since the mountain is not high, many foreigners run up the mountain to exercise, and it is also a good place for outdoor sports.

By A heart of ice illuminates a jade pot |

Formed by a volcanic crater, it is a green area of vegetation and a landmark of Honolulu. Climb the mountain and overlook the endless scenery.

By yyyrayyy |

It is a great place to watch the sunrise and the sea, and you can also have a bird's eye view of downtown Honolulu.

By wei |

The scenery is very good and it is not difficult to climb. Please read my travel notes for details. When you reach the top, don’t forget to visit the bunker on the mountain. Tourists can go in and there are stairs leading down the mountain when you come out. You will see it when you climb up the mountain.

By Candied Hawthorn Baby |

The view from the top is breathtaking, offering panoramic views of Waikiki. The hike up is also a great way to work out. It's also not too far from the city, and the entire trip can be completed in less than a morning. It's definitely worth the trip.