Few random questions

Question

Visiting Oahu 11 days end of June.

2 Adults and 12yr old. With a car, staying at the Laylow.

I've been reading this forum for a while, I'll post a few random questions once in while if I can't find the answer online.

- Will book Diamond Head eventually. Option online is with or without parking. I would like to pay for parking but they give 2 hr slot times and expect everyone to be out by the end of the 2 hr window. Do we really have time to hike up and down with stressing out, take a few pictures and be out by the end of that time? What happens if I show up at 10:00 and parking is full? Do we wait? Are there options to park somewhere else and do we get a refund?

- One day we plan to leave after breakfast and go to Waimea Beach (from 10:00-14:00 approx.) We don't really want pack a cooler for lunch and once the car is parked, I don't want to leave to go buy stuff and come back. Are there walk-able options nearby for water and quick lunch (food trucks)? I can't see anything online.

Thanks

Answer

It sounds like you have a great trip ahead in Oahu! Here are some detailed answers to your questions:

1. Diamond Head Hike & Parking:

For the Diamond Head hike, the 2-hour parking window does seem a bit tight, especially if you want to take your time, enjoy the views, and take photos. The hike to the summit and back takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your pace, so you'll have to be mindful of your time to avoid rushing. If you're planning to arrive at the 10:00 slot, keep in mind that parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak times (mornings and weekends). If you show up and parking is full, you might have to wait for a spot, and it could eat into your time for the hike.

What happens if parking is full? If the parking lot is full, you may need to wait or circle back. There are no direct alternatives for parking near the entrance, but you could try finding street parking further out and walk, though this is not ideal. Be prepared for this possibility.
Refunds for unused parking? Unfortunately, there are no refunds for the parking fee if you can't park within your allotted time or if you don't show up. It's a good idea to plan ahead and aim for an earlier slot to avoid these issues.
Alternatives for parking? There's limited street parking around Diamond Head, but it can be challenging to find a spot during busy hours. Your best bet is to stick with the designated parking lot and aim for an earlier slot if possible.

2. Waimea Beach – Lunch and Food Options:

Waimea Bay is a beautiful spot for a day at the beach, and it's good that you’re thinking about convenience for lunch. There aren’t many restaurants or food trucks directly on Waimea Beach, but there are a couple of options nearby:

Food Trucks in the Area: You will find a few food trucks at the entrance to Waimea Bay and along the nearby roads. These food trucks typically offer a variety of quick and tasty local food options, including poke bowls, plate lunches, and smoothies. Popular options might include the Waimea Bay Food Truck (offering local favorites) or food trucks near the Waimea Valley entrance.
Waimea Valley Café: If you're interested in a sit-down meal, you can check out the Waimea Valley Café, which is located just a short walk from the beach. They serve a range of lighter meals, salads, and beverages.
Picnic Areas: If you do decide to pack a cooler (or buy items in advance), there are picnic tables available in the area. The Waimea Bay picnic area has some nice spots with views where you can enjoy your food in comfort.

Since you don’t want to leave the beach and return to the car, grabbing something from the food trucks nearby is a convenient option that doesn’t require too much walking. Be sure to arrive early, as food trucks can get busy during peak times. If you're looking for quick bites, they are definitely the way to go.

Additional Tips: As a general tip, it’s always a good idea to go to popular spots like Diamond Head early in the day to avoid crowds and parking issues. As for Waimea Bay, spending the late morning to early afternoon there is a great idea, but try to keep in mind the crowds and plan for a bit of time if you need to grab food. With your car, you’ll have the flexibility to explore nearby beaches and enjoy the North Shore's laid-back vibe!

Enjoy your trip to Oahu, and feel free to ask more questions if needed!