The curving green slopes of Diamond Head dominate the Honolulu skyline, a stunning backdrop that has become an iconic Hawaiian scene. Hike the 0.75-mile (1.1-kilometer) trail to the top, or simply enjoy a picnic at its base.
Known by locals as Le’ahi (brow of the tuna), Diamond Head is an extinct volcanic crater, a “tuff cone.” The circular mountain formation was shaped around 150,000 years ago by a short, intense eruption. With its rim at 760 feet (228 meters) above sea level, it’s the perfect height to be both a relatively easy climb and an excellent lookout point. Enjoy exceptional views of the now overgrown crater, Oahu island and Honolulu’s coastline.
Follow the handrails and the informative signs all the way to the top. A walk along an unpaved path and over lava leads to some tunnels and staircases and, finally, the observation platform. Cool off in the sea breeze and take in some of the best views in Hawaii, with Waikiki Beach and Kapiolani Park directly below you and the Pacific Ocean stretching to the horizon. Take pictures of the lighthouse, or, if you are there in winter, of the breaching humpback whales that often migrate past this point.
The 475-acre (192-hectare) Diamond Head State Monument area at the mountain’s base has picnic tables and benches, where you can enjoy your packed lunch. Alternatively, try one of the many eateries along Monsarrat Avenue, just opposite the entrance. Visit on Saturday mornings for the local farmers’ market and buy fresh, local produce or tasty snacks.
The Diamond Head trail starts just beyond the entrance to the Diamond Head State Monument, on the coast east of Waikiki. You can get to the park on foot, by bus or car, and it opens from early morning to late afternoon. There is only a small charge for entering. The climb is steep and over an unpaved path, so wear good walking shoes. Also bring water, a torch for the tunnels and sun protection. Allow 1–2 hours for the hike.
Diamond Head Tours
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Waimea Waterfall Hike & Swim w/Dole Plantation (Breakfast/Lunch included)
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Try Scuba Diving for Beginners Free Videos of your adventure included
Reviews of Diamond Head
3/5 - Okay
Super crowded the day we went, we did not heed the advice of the travel book that said to go early. Walking in is an option, IMHO, Hawaii needs to get rid of cars going in, establish a parking area and shuttle everyone in in electric shuttles...
5/5 - Excellent
I hiked up Diamond Head and enjoyed it so much, definitely a highlight of my trip! It was a quick and inexpensive Uber trip from the Rainbow Tower.
2/5 - Disappointing
Couldn't get into parking lot at 9:30am because it was already full. Told to try again in the afternoon. Get up early to make this hike.
5/5 - Excellent
Great hike to the top. Bring plenty of water for the hike (and them some more). Views from the top were incredible.
5/5 - Excellent
Take the City Bus to the stop at the bottom of Diamond Head park and hike to the entrance for an extra work-out.... or pick up an Uber/Lyft from the Zoo to the entrance for under $10. Bring a water bottle and wear good shoes. There are a LOT of stairs and it's a good 2 mile hike uphill, so those with mobility issues should be aware.
5/5 - Excellent
World War II memorial
Popular places to visit
Diamond Head State Monument
You can take time to visit Diamond Head State Monument during your travels to Honolulu.
Diamond Head Beach Park
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Diamond Head Beach Park during your trip to Honolulu? Amble around this romantic area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Leahi Beach Park
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Leahi Beach Park during your trip to Honolulu?
Waikiki Shell
You can enjoy the entertainment at Waikiki Shell during your travels to Honolulu. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
Queen Kapiʻolani Regional Park
Jog or walk the trails, play tennis or relax beneath the shade of an ancient banyan tree in Hawaii’s oldest public park, with a stunning volcanic backdrop.
Honolulu Zoo
What began as the exotic bird collection of the island’s king is now a park with over 1,200 animals, including several rare and endangered species.
Best Lodging Options Near Diamond Head
Check availability on hotels close to Diamond Head
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Waikiki Beach
The Twin Fin Hotel
Queen Kapiolani Hotel
Best time to go to Diamond Head
The best time to visit Diamond Head is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
 Calendar Month |  Temperature |  Precipitation |  Cloudiness |  Occupancy |  Pricing |
| January | 72.7°F (22.6°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Average |
| February | 72.0°F (22.2°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Average |
| March | 72.5°F (22.5°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly High | Average |
| April | 73.8°F (23.2°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Average |
| May | 75.4°F (24.1°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Slightly Low |
| June | 76.6°F (24.8°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly High | Slightly High |
| July | 77.5°F (25.3°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly High | Slightly High |
| August | 78.1°F (25.6°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly Low | Average |
| September | 78.3°F (25.7°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Average |
| October | 77.5°F (25.3°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly Low | Slightly Low |
| November | 75.7°F (24.3°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Slightly Low | Slightly Low |
| December | 73.6°F (23.1°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Slightly High |
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