A volcanic peak with a large crater in the middle towers over East Honolulu and from a distance it is clear that it will offer a breathtaking view of the entire city and Waikiki Beach.

Diamond Head rises to 232 metres above sea level and the crater is over 1.2 km in diameter. The peak is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Oahu.

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Slightly farther from downtown, but easier to reach on foot, another sight to see is Koko Head Mountain near Hanauma Bay.

Hiking trail and breathtaking views

The only official hiking trail with concrete stairs leads to the top of Diamond Head, other methods of ascent are prohibited to protect the tuff walls of the crater. The trail starts in the middle of the crater, where a road leads through a tunnel.

Total distance is just under 3 km (1.45 km one way)
120 metres elevation gain
route map

From the top, you'll have an amazing view of the entire city of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, the Pacific Ocean and the Ko'olau Mountains.

Entrance fees and opening hours

Access to the top of the crater is regulated. It is open from 6:00am to 4:00pm, the gate closes at 6:00pm, you must be able to leave Diamond Head by then.

Reservations must be made online at the official website gostateparks.hawaii.gov/diamondhead.

Admission is 5 usd + parking fee then 10 usd, payment is by credit card only.

Official website: dlnr.hawaii.gov

How to get there

The walk from town to the crater is unpleasant and is on a road including a narrow tunnel with no sidewalk. While it is legal to walk through the tunnel and the tunnel is only about 200 meters long, be very careful, as the tunnel is primarily for cars.

Book a car at Honolulu Airport

The nearest bus stop is located 1.1 km from the start of the route (stop "Diamond Head Road / 18th Ave"), served by routes 2, 3, 9, 23 and 24.

If you have a car, be sure to drive to the visitor center in the middle of the crater, parking costs 10 usd, but you'll save yourself over 2 miles of walking on the road.