Diamond Head Tours

Diamond Head showing mountains, landscape views and a city
Choose one or more items to build your trip:
Make the short climb to the rim of this extinct volcanic crater for spectacular views of Honolulu, the Pacific Ocean and the rugged ranges of Oahu’s interior.

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.

Plan a trip to see Diamond Head

Ilikai by Luana Hawaii Vacation Rentals
Ala Moana Hotelcondo by Luana Vacation Rental
Paradise Bay Resort
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Browse tours and tickets to explore Diamond Head

Reviews of Diamond Head

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
2010
" "5 - Excellent 61.54317207593387%
4 - Good
1041
" "4 - Good 31.87385180649112%
3 - Okay
184
" "3 - Okay 5.633802816901408%
2 - Disappointing
20
" "2 - Disappointing 0.612369871402327%
1 - Terrible
11
" "1 - Terrible 0.3368034292712799%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler
Feb 22, 2020

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

Verified traveler
Feb 17, 2020

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

RoseI
Feb 15, 2020

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

Verified traveler
Jan 31, 2020

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

Verified traveler
Jan 16, 2020

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

Chen
Nov 14, 2019

World War II memorial

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Diamond Head

Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
4 out of 5
2552 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
5 out of 5
2490 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI
'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
The Twin Fin Hotel
The Twin Fin Hotel
3.5 out of 5
2570 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI
The Twin Fin Hotel
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
4 out of 5
2424 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
4 out of 5
2005 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, HI
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach
Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach
4 out of 5
175 Paoakalani Ave, Honolulu, HI
Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
4 out of 5
2255 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
Diamond Head Hidden Paradise
Diamond Head Hidden Paradise
Honolulu
Diamond Head Hidden Paradise
Wayfinder Waikiki
Wayfinder Waikiki
4 out of 5
2375 Ala Wai Blvd, Honolulu, HI
Wayfinder Waikiki
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.