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Diamond Head State Monument
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 6 am - 6 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
427 reviews for Diamond Head State Monument
426 reviews in English
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Review from Kristiana A.
San Diego, CA
Five stars because it's a relatively easy hike with an amazing view at the summit. The trail consists of a few parts -- concrete walkway at the bottom, dirt trail that bends around the mountainside (though it's more like rock than dirt), and stairs the rest of the way up. The trail is very well maintained and you don't have to worry about getting dirty. There were also plenty of people going up in flipflops without a complaint. However, I don't want to underrate the hike and make it sound TOO easy! I get moderate exercise and still broke a sweat, and of course it's very important to carry a few bottles of water when you go up.
At the top is a breathtaking 360 degree view of Oahu, from Waikiki Beach to the cliffsides of Hanauma Bay. Bring water, bring your camera, and if you're feeling like quitting on the way up, just remember that something beautiful is waiting for you at the summit! -
Review from Julia P.
1/28/2012
A view worth seeing at least once each visit to Oahu.
A hike worth doing as long as you are motivated, well hydrated and don't have any cardiopulmonary problems. If you're older than 60 years of age, take it a little easier but still do it. If you can run a mile without stopping at a pace faster than 3 mph, you can probably do it.
I carried a 25 lb backpack with camera gear and although tired by the time we got to the top, still made it in about an hour and 15 minutes round trip. -
Review from Keith A.
Bend, OR
Updated - 1/27/2012 2 Check-ins Here
8th day here and 8th day climbing "The Head" for this vacation. Gotta get our daily workout in, right? Some review updates:
1) Do the sunrise hike at least once. The gate opens at 6am, but the cars and tour buses start lining up much earlier.
It's dark. REALLY. If you are doing the sunrise hike get yourself one of those ABC Store flashlights for $4.99 and you'll be fine.
The scene as you start to climb is a bit surreal. Like right out of the movie "October Sky" and the miners are walking toward the face and all you see is the glow of their headlamps. Ditto here, but instead they are winding up the trail to the summit.
2) Whether you are doing the sunrise hike or not, at the end of the tunnel go LEFT.
Do not be a lemming and follow the crowd up those daunting 99 steps from hell. They have a newer, better, faster, EASIER alternate route to the top. (sorry, you've still got some climbing and elevation to gain, but unless you are a "traditionalist"---take my advice and go LEFT after the tunnel)
Now that I've just said that, I've probably just ruined a "best kept secret" for locals. Sorry.
3) Finally, if you are doing the sunrise hike big tip: You will be up there with 300 of your closest friends. For some reason, those "friends" will stay lined up there long after the "show" is over. Presumably waiting for the sun to actually rise several degrees in the sky? Either way, once the "Oooh-Ahhhh" factor is over for you then it's time to high tail it down before those 300 "friends" get the same idea!
Last tip: footwear & water. Still amazes us how many people attempt this hike in flip flops.....or even high heels!!!
As for water? A must if it's hot. So worth carrying it.
Oh, and one more last bit of advice....a courtesy....be aware of those wanting to go faster / slower than you. SINGLE file is always appreciated.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/3/2010
We've done Diamond Head several times....sometimes during the same vacation stay....depending on how… Read more »
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Review from Ticha B.
1/25/2012 4 photos
A nice workout, and worth every step you take up the grueling crater from the parking lot to the top where the overlook is. A must see, a must do when you're on Oahu. And make sure you climb Diamond Head at the beginning of your trip. If you visit Diamond Head as a tourist like me when you're about to leave paradise, you'd probably hate the hike up. We got Diamond Head out of the way first thing.
Hiking Diamond Head at lunch time in January isn't bad at all. The temps weren't too high (high 70s, low 80s), sunny and had a nice breeze. Extra water, sunblock, wearing shorts, a cap, sunglasses and super comfy walking/hiking shoes are a must. Round trip from parking to the top and back down might be anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours. Take your time and let the professional hikers pass you up, you'll still get the same view when you reach the top. Take pictures a long the way but make room for the others to pass since the road up gets narrow at some points. I had the luxury of carrying my son on my back most of the way up. :( It was worth it to bring him up there though even though he probably won't remember the trip (but good for the pictures).
I guess the HNL Park guys invested some money into a newly built easier paved/cement stairwells up to top. This is good for the elderly or people who can't make the steep stairwells/spiral stairways climb up the final portion to the lookout.
A good hike for exercise, and a great hike up to view Waikiki and the other side of the Island for a tourist like me! 2x for me now. :)
$5 per vehicle or $1 per hiker if you walked in pass the park rangers.
Check out Magoo's Burgers (food truck) for water, Gatorade and food for before and after your trip up/down Diamond Head. Tough for small children and elderly persons and fatty tourist like me who are out of shape! :)Listed in: OAHU, Hawai'i Must Visits!
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Review from Jamie H.
Washington, DC
1/26/2012 1 Check-in Here
You're probably reading this because you want to know one of two thing: can I do this hike and is it worth it?
Being physically able to do the hike is not something to be underrated. If you're highly overweight and this vacation is your first time off the couch then the answer is probably not. But if you get moderate exercise and can pace yourself than yes you can do it. I would say that this hike is easy for those that endure moderate cardio several times a week. Take some water and pace yourself because the big stretch is at the top where you ascend stairs to go through a tunnel, another set of very steep stairs (or the moderate stairs around the corner that are longer but have a gentler incline), a spiral staircase and then steps to the top of the lookout.
Biggest tip: GO EARLY! In the winter time, I wouldn't suggest going after 10 am. In the summer, don't go after 8 am as it gets brutally hot and will exacerbate any health issues you have.
So, is it worth it? OMG, yes! The cost is $1 per person to walk into the park, or $5 per car. The views though are priceless. From the top you can see all of Waikiki and Hawaii Kai. The mountains are stunning and the waters are translucent. It's worth every penny and your sense of accomplishment will trump the admission charge. -
Review from Jesse W.
1/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
Requisite hike for anyone visiting Honolulu, this hike is tackled by just about anyone. Whether if you're an Asian tourist sporting high heels, or from the west coast decked out in high tech hiking gear, you'll find a wide range of visitors and locals challenging themselves at all times of the day. I've hiked it a couple times, once back in 2008 and recently over the 2011 holiday break. There have been improvements to the trail, including a new loop at the top which helps easy overall traffic and congestion.
During this last trip, the parking lot was quite crowded and by mid-morning (Saturday), there was a line of cars waiting for parking stalls. Many arrive with a tour group or otherwise get dropped off by shuttle or taxi just outside the pay-gate (inside and past the tunnel entrance). Comfort stations facilities (bathrooms) are very well kept and located at the trail head. Most of the beginning portion of the hike is a switchback asphalt trail, the last third is mostly taking stairs (not handicap accessible) and requires a nominal amount of endurance to complete it without resting.
Hike is well worth the effort (or lack of effort for some), views are beautiful and spectacular. I wish I was here 100 years ago to see what the landscape would have been...
one less star from perfect for the paid parking and crowded conditions... -
Review from Jenn C.
1/15/2012
My very first hike ever!
- This is a fairly easy hike. It is about 1.6 miles round trip.
- Come here early. There is always a bit of humidity. The earlier, the better.
- This is a complete tourist hike. The trail gets crowded with all types of people. Older ladies in heels, teens in flip flops, etc.
- Hello? Are you there? There is reception everywhere btw. My friend was on a business call the WHOLE hike up. Seriously, he was. He did not lose reception once.
- There is shaved ice truck at the bottom to greet you after your hike. Treat yourself!
Easy, educational/historical and fun. This is definitely a must-do in Oahu. -
Review from cheer E.
Marina del Rey, CA
2/4/2012
The hike itself was kind of banal. Up, up, up the crowded, boring, and exposed switchback and vertical trail, with few along-the-way bonuses (the tunnel is interesting). The end views are pretty darn nice, which make the hike well worth it.
Go early, walk fast, take some photos/videos and go down faster to avoid too many other visitors, many who seemed crazy to be hiking this fairly steep ascent: in sandals, flip flops (!), cork heeled shoes, with baby strollers (?!), and several we saw who looked like they could have died on the way up. Practical advice: wear sneakers or cross trainers, leave your baby carriage in the car (do carry your baby in a Bjorn or carrier--I did mine, and he was 20 lbs of extra fun weight), wear a light hat to keep from getting burned, and sunscreen... it's not worth bringing up water.
The gate guy said there was a wait for parking spaces. He seemed skeptical that it would be quick but it was--it was worth the ten minutes wait rather than parking below and walking up the entrance road (which is narrow and could be dangerous for walkers). -
Review from Mark S.
12/27/2011
Fantastic hike on its own merit, but then you emerge on the top with a breathtaking view of the island and the Pacific.
I've done this hike around 10 times, and each time has been just long enough from the last time to keep everything fresh. It's a tough hike with a lot of stairs, so you can actually get a little bit of a workout getting to the top.
It's a picturesque landmark that you can see from all over the island, and it's worth it to get to the top of it. -
Review from Sandra s.
12/29/2011 1 photo
One of the most memorable things I did during my vacation in Oahu. I highly recommend anyone that comes to Oahu to put this on their "to do list".
Woke up super early (5 something) to take the taxi to Diamond Head State Monument & arrived at the place at 6am (when it opens). My sister and I each paid the $1 admission fee, and hiked. The hike really took about 45 minutes to go up to the top, and less than 40 minutes to go back down. Hiking up was tiring (did I mention I was wheezing like crazy), but hiking down was a piece of cake.
It was pitch black when we started hiking around 6am, but the sun eventually came out. Once we hiked all the way to the top, we got to view the beautiful sunrise and Waikiki's entire coastline. It was so beautiful and breathtaking! The hike was very narrow and tiring so wear comfortable clothes and sneakers. Do not wear flip flops to hike because you will bound to hit your toes on the rocks, and hurt yourself.
Try to come here early because it gets very crowded later on in the day. By 7am, there were so much people already. Do bring a bottle of water, something to wipe your sweat (you will be sweating like a pig!), and a camera to take tons of pics.
Thank you Diamond Head for giving my sister and I an awesome workout, an awesome view of Oahu, and a very memorable experience that we will always remember forever.Listed in: Hang Loose in Oahu, Hawaii…
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Review from Adam L.
1/21/2012 1 Check-in Here
This was the highlight of my time in Oahu. For starters, the hike up to the top of the crater is nothing too strenuous, although to be honest, i had to stop a few times for a breather. There is not much to the park besides the walk up to the top. The fact that you are actually in the middle of a crater is cool in and of itself, however the view gets old after 10 minutes. The top.... that's a whole other story. The lookout has the most breathtaking 360 view. To the east, there is a beautiful mountain jutting into the pacific. To the west, the "Hum-Dinger" of a view of Waikiki. It has the most beautiful backdrop of the mountains. To the south, there is a view of some of the clearest water most tourists will ever see. At about 1.6 miles round trip hike, it is certainly worth spending a few hours of your day here. Really beautiful and unique walking through the caves to get to the summit.
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Review from Claudia M.
Fort Shafter, HI
1/22/2012 1 Check-in Here
Awesome place to go hiking in. The parking lot is tiny, so i try to beat the traffic there. One of the quickest and easiest hikes with a gorgeous view.
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Review from Christina S.
Campbell, CA
1/10/2012
Well worth the $1 they charge for this hike now. The panoramic view of the ocean and the island at the end was amazing, and the hike up gave great views of the the crater and crater valley.
I thought it was going to be a tougher hike that it ended up. I did it easily in flip flops. The path is paved for the beginning part, packed so hard it might as well have been paved in the middle, and stairs at the top. The whole thing round trip is less than two miles.
This trail is a great slice of history with lots of available educational materials about the crater's former military uses and its volcanic creation.
On the negative side, walking to the trailhead from outside the crater felt very dangerous as there is no pedestrian paths and you have to walk through a long cramped auto tunnel. If you drive or bus into the park though, this is not an issue. -
Review from Krissy m.
12/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Wonderful time!
I had been to Hawaii many a time before, but this was my husband's first trip and this hike was something that was on our MUST DO list!! :D
The hike itself is not bad at all. Make sure you wear shoes (not sandals or high heels, as I did see) and bring water. Other than that, the most difficult part was the parking aspect. -
Review from Jay L.
Honolulu, HI
Based on my previous review on Diamond Head Crater, I explained about how this hike was way too easy for me to accomplish and whatnot. Well, I went hiking here today for the first time in almost a year and it was one helluva good workout to say the least Although there were plenty of tourists hiking this trail, I still managed to make it through all the crowd going up to the top coming back down the trail. This time, I'm gonna have to give this hiking trail a three star rating for the new & improved trail.
The new & improved trail at Diamond Head Crater looks better than ever. After going through the first tunnel, there's now a back passage right behind the 99 stair steps leading up to the second tunnel, and it makes it so much more convenient than how it was back in the days when there was no alternate routes and the only way to get to the top of the crater was to climb the 99 step stairs and go through the second tunnel. It used to be so cramped having to go through both parts of the trail, but not anymore.
With the addition of the newly alternate route at Diamond Head Crater, you get to see more of the views as you're making your way to the top of the trail. Not to also mention, it saves a lot of time rather than having to go up the 99 stair step and through the second tunnel. Of course the views from the top of the trail is magnificent as you have a 360 panoramic view of everything you see around you. At the same time, the top of the trail is always packed with so many people wanting to take pictures of the awesome scenery so don't be surprised too much about it. Now you can you expect more people to use the newly alternate route rather than using the old school route, and I for one like the newly alternate route way better than the old one.
Although Diamond Head Crater is an overrated hiking trail on this island because of so many tourists wanting to hike here, it's still somewhat of a fun hike. It's a good warmup hike especially if you're trying to prepare to elevate yourself to the next level in hiking such as attempting to hike at Koko Head Trail or Mariner's Ridge. With $1 for admission fee if you're coming by foot, then it's not such a big deal. Yes you have to pay an admission fee to hike his trail, and yes I don't like it at all. But hey, it's worth the $1 if you make the long walk from Diamond Head Road, up the hilly road, through the tunnel, and then enter the crater itself.Listed in: Breakdown, Royal Rumble, Survivor Series
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/2/2011
As much as I hate to say this but Diamond Head Crater is way too easy of an hike to accomplish for… Read more »
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Review from Josh A.
Santa Clara, CA
1/28/2012
This was my second time here. It's a great hike with spectacular views. If you can hike up stairs, you can do this. Here is a suggestion: after hiking thru the tunnel, go up the stairs. Don't go left. There are no signs, but the hike is actually much easier if you go up the stairs because the bunker is a huge choke point and its basically one way. The trail loops around back to the bottom of the stairs, so don't think you'll miss out on anything. Wear proper shoes. You'll be walking on rocks and uneven ground and you can twist your ankle easily if you don't pay attention.
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Review from Melissa C.
Newark, CA
12/22/2011
Everyone says that this is a "must do" when you are on the island..and honestly I agree with them.
Yes you should go here at least ONCE. There's no doubt about it that it's a BEAUTIFUL view. That's about it when it comes to this place. It is way too crowded, almost too much to the point where you don't really get to enjoy your view. More like "oh pretty now I gotta go" kinda feel to this place.
Me being a person who loves to hike and LOVEs nature, didn't feel like this fulfilled my personal hiking needs. It's not super "nature-ey". You're climbing up actual stairs through part of it...very narrow and really crowded stairs might I add. I actually felt a little claustrophobic during this hike. I dunno I guess generally it felt like it had too much of a "man made/man tempered with" feeling to it.. if that even makes sense. But of course they had to temper with this place a lot to make it safe for everyone to get to the top.
People are selfish and will cut others when it is there turn to go etc.. etc.. For tourist reasons this is a must do. But if you're just looking for a great place to hike this would be at the bottom of my list. Place was not very challenging either in my opinion.
Been there done that, don't plan on doing it again. -
Review from Cathy M.
Garden Grove, CA
12/27/2011
This place is AMAZING. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water! I think there's an entrance fee when you come into the park, but it's definitely under $5. The walk is a little over a mile and there's a lot of incline as you move your way up the volcano. The view is breathtaking as your walk progresses. Remember to watch your step, it can get a little rocky.
The best part of this is when you reach the very top and you get to overlook all of Oahu. It is simply breathtaking! You have to see it for yourself to believe it! -
Review from KaThy T.
12/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
If you're novice hiker, this hike isn't that bad. If you walk up up from the bus stop area, it's a buck per person unless you have an annual pass, which I think costs $10.
The hike was a bit alterned, where you go around instead of up a certain flight of stairs, which is much better (according to my friend who's done this hike before). There are two areas you can hike to. We hiked to the higher end. The view was beautiful. When we got to the top we took many pictures, others did too.
This place is definitely worth hiking if you like hiking. -
Review from Nick L.
San Francisco, CA
12/22/2011
400!
This place was one of our must do's when we came to Oahu.
We came early on a Tuesday morning and it wasn't too busy yet. The sun was just rising and the parking lot more or less empty.
The hike gets progressively more tiring (probably because you are already tired as you get up there) as you have it gets steeper and has steps.
That should not deter anyone in any way, shape or form. I would say it is totally worth it to get to the top and have those amazing panoramic views.
Looking to the island side you can see planes landing and Waikiki.
It's just a beautiful vista.
It does get busier later in the day. By the time we were heading down, there were numerous people heading the other direction. There isn't that much room at the summit so be warned. Go early to avoid the crowds.
Wear sensible shoes and bring some water. It will help. -
Review from raechelle v.
Honolulu, HI
12/4/2011
I signed up for the Xterra 10K Trail Run race @ Kualoa Ranch. I've never done a trail run in my life. I got real nervous being that it's so close to the marathon. I didn't want to fall and sprain my ankle being that I'm such a clutz. So, off I went and bought me a pair of trail running shoes. Everyone knows not to wear new shoes for a race, so I decided to break them in. I didn't want to travel far, so off to Diamond Head I went to break in my shoes.
I haven't been here in years! Back in the days, I remember all those crazy T-shirt vendors that would line the start of the trail. There were even certificates that said "I survived Diamond Head." It was so crazy back then. I also remember Japanese girls going up the trail in platform shoes, a party dress, pua in the hair, hobo bag, and full on make up. Geez, the Japanese don't mess around. Some of them also smoke cigarettes while running the Honolulu Marathon and let's not forget that guy who runs with the getta slippers the whole 26.2 miles. Must be that samurai fighting spirit and zen that helps the Japanese do their fitness things in crazy gear. I also remember when it was totally free to park and hike up Diamond Head.
Anywho, gone are those crazy vendors but the Japanese girls are still hiking up with their crazy shoes. And gone are the hike Diamond Head for free days. It's $5 to just park and $1 to get in. But at least there's this $10 annual yearly pass.
I enjoyed the hike. They really fixed up this place. I like the guard rails for safety and the trail is well kept with no overgrown bushes to run through.
If you go really early in the morning (6 a.m-8 a.m.) you beat the crowd and the heat. Wear a hat, sunscreen, and good walking shoes. Bring water too since it tends to get hot towards mid morning.
And stay on the trail! A couple of times, I've seen tourists getting rescued with the helicopter because they went off the trail to go "exploring" or chase a hat that blew away. Auwe..so not worth it! So shame....and it costs our state money to send a rescue helicopter.
And they got rid of the 99 stairs. There's a little orange tie in front of the 99 stairs, but some people miss it and go up the stairs anyway. Look to the left side and there's a newly built pavement and stairs leading up to the lookout. You don't need to travel through the tunnel or go up the dark winding staircase anymore.
It's a fairly easy hike and it's great for crosstraining. I like running up the stairs and it's safer than running up and down Koko Crater. It's a nice introduction to trail running, too. But if you're looking for a real adventurous hike, there are many more on the island to choose from and these hikes are totally free (Mariner's Ridge, Kuliou'ou, Hawaii Loa Ridge, etc.)
I guess growing up in the islands, I find it a little weird to have to pay to hike in nature. Ahhh, those were the good old days. -
Review from Robert C.
Honolulu, HI
2/3/2012
I started way early but still got sunburned!...So beautiful, so clear, next time gotta slap on some stuff before I leave the car, cuz once you get up there your mind is really somewhere else in the awsomness.
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Review from Yosapon T.
Honolulu, HI
12/24/2011 2 photos
As a UHM Student I always admit this is not actually a hike but still its a pretty fascinating place to go especially for people who never visited Honolulu :) Once you get to the top you get to see the whole coastline of Waikiki and many more :)
Compare to other places i've been it is a fairly straight forward hike with most of the path which are paved roads and then maybe 100 steps of stairs? But I bet you it is super easy to get to the top :)
Things i advise to do for this place:
For the best view i advise you to go when it is sunrise (However depending on the time of the year the sun may varies when it comes up but i promise you that it is a much more spectacular view when there is no light and when there is light !!!!
Other things to bring are:
Water
Shoes
Motivation
Btw i forgot there is a charge if you are going to hike this place i believed $1 per person if you are walking into the park or $5 for cars to park in there :)
Have Fun !!!! -
Review from Patra B.
We got a late start and didn't get to the parking lot until about 10am. It was already full, so we had to head back down the hill to park by the college. Parking is free at the college, but then you have to hike back up to get to the entrance. Its $1 per person to enter the park or $5 per car, so make sure you bring some cash.
The hike isn't too bad. It was getting pretty hot on our way up, so we took a few water breaks. It probably took about 45 minutes to get up to the top and then 30 minutes to get back down. The views from the top are gorgeous, but it gets pretty crowded up there.
Make sure you bring water, sunblock and comfy walking/hiking shoes.Listed in: Hawaii Adventures
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Review from Andy N.
Good for picture taking and tourists..Not good for hikers. This place was way too easy and short. I'm sure it was built that way to not have a lot of tourists complain.
Came here in the morning and it was $1 a person to park and hike. They had a food truck at the bottom of the hike. Tons of people are here hiking. The trail itself is back and forth is about 1.7 miles long. Make sure to take your time and take tons of pictures when you get the view spots. There's concrete walkways, rocks, stairs, and dirt. The view is definitely breathtaking and something you don't get to see everything unless you live out here. -
Review from Vincent K.
San Francisco, CA
11/17/2011
The view and trail is pretty awesome. Definitely come early to avoid the tourists since it matters in that 1 lane spiral staircase and gettin in and out from the top. Although I felt bad, I had to not let a few elderly people in because I was trying to get out. And elders take a long time up and down the trail. Just wished there was an express lane or something, but go figure.
Parking is also $5 but $1 per person for walkins. They sure know how to make that dough.
But again, the view at the top is gorgeous. You can snap a shot of the Waikiki coast and theres a lighthouse that I'm sure plenty of people have snapped pics of.
As for the hike itself. Its not hard. Children can make it up. It just gets really really hot at times, but find some shade to keep cool if anything. And bring plenty of water! -
Review from Jen jacob J.
Kaneohe, HI
11/26/2011
Meh.
Gets pretty hot, so wear sunscreen, and "cool" clothing (shorts, tank top, etc.) Probably one of the easiest hikes on the island, the only challenging thing about it would be the incline and the 100steps or whatever. It's usually always extremely packed with tourists, which is also a downside. Also because of the hot sun, a lot of the foliage is dried out, be careful not to get "grass" cuts, etc. The views are nice, there are rest stops along the way, mainly for those with heart or blood pressure conditions, I'd imagine (again because of that incline).
Probably the biggest downside is that you have to pay for it.
* Sunscreen is a must
* Loose clothing
* Good walking shoes
* Asthmatics remember your inhaler(s)
* People with heart conditions or high/low blood pressure be prepared for some steep incline/decline
* Stay very well hydrated, drinks with electrolytes are great
* $5/car (amount of passengers doesn't matter) OR $1/person without a car -
Review from Julia P.
Milpitas, CA
10/28/2011
Ladies and Gentlemen - it IS possible to hike up Diamond Head in flip flops!
My bf and I ventured up the steep steps in our flip flops since we did not pack sneakers. We got plenty of funny looks but who cares : )
We drove in around 9AM, found parking ($5) easily. I would rate the difficulty of the hike a moderate one. The most difficult part for me were the long flight of stairs. Took us about 30-45 minutes to get to the top and 30min to get back down.
The view from the top of Diamond Head was amazing..you can see the Waikiki strip as well as pretty far inland. The top is quite crowded as people are taking pictures and taking in the view too. In general, people were nice and were willing to take pictures of my bf and I - and in return we'd offer the same.
I'd recommend going earlier in the day for several reasons: ease of parking, less people, the hot sun isn't out beaming on you.
There were 2 food trucks in the parking lot in case you need water/food or shaved ice. Which was really convenient because we forgot to bring water. There are also restrooms before you begin the hike.
I would not recommend this hike for the elderly or anyone who has difficult with cardiovascular issues. -
Review from Christine A.
San Diego, CA
11/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
I thought this was going to be a nice lil park with a casual walking path...boy was I wrong! The sign in the beginning of the trail says: "Strenuous and challenging. This is not a casual stroll in a tree-shaded park. Be prepared for the hot sun and a winding trail with steep stairways and dark tunnels." SO TRUE. Bring your sneakers/tennis shoes, waterbottle, sunblock, and camera and wear loose clothing. You do not need a flashlight. This is a TOUGH hike up, I had to take many breaks to catch my breath and was sweating through my shirt/shorts (I am a slim and fit 27 y.o. girl). The only thing keeping me going was seeing the elderly Japanese women cheerfully walking back down (meaning they made it to the top already lol).
The steep hike is worth it though, with a BREATHTAKING view at the top. We took at least 50 pictures up there lol. Takes about 30 minutes going up, 30 minutes going down.
We had no entrance fee for some reason-- we took a cab there and he dropped us off inside.
I would recommend going in the morning when it's a little cooler. I saw people doing this in flip flops but I wouldn't recommend this -- there's some uneven terrain and tons of steps.
There is a snack truck located at the bottom of the hike -- bring some cash so you can buy yourself a well-deserved shave ice! :) -
Review from Tom E.
After attempting to eat 4 pounds of pancakes (courtesy of Mac 24-7), I felt a serious need to walk off some of the glutton I previously committed. I kept seeing this cool looking mountain type thing in the background of Waikiki.
My mom kept telling me it's Diamond Head- an inactive volcano- score!
I somehow managed to get to the entrance (while people were running some kind of marathon- no idea in hell what it was for, I am just glad I didn't run anyone over) and realized it was a state park. I am pretty sure the gates open at 7AM (cool it opens early), and you get to drive through part of the crater.
The entrance fee in minimal (I think $3, cash only), and parking is somewhat scarce (at least it seemed to be). There were water machines and food trucks around as well.
It was a nice hike, although some of it you have to be careful of very uneven pavement (ended up messing with my right knee, which got better that night).
Also, please note that when it says trail detour, take it- or you will go up a bunch of steep steps for no reason- I think they are renovating the spots up top.
When you finally get up top, the view is breathtaking.
There is a part where you walk through the crater for a few, I suggest a flashlight (especially if you are tall, I had to walk oddly to prevent my head from getting waxed from the rock above).
It amazed me how many people of all ages and sizes came to check this place out, I had no idea how popular it was, but I saw why! I mean there were 2-3 year old kids making the trek :)
This is a great place to connect with nature and reminds me of Stone Mountain in East Atlanta, where when you take a nice hike to the top, you are rewarded with a stunning view of a beautiful city. -
Review from Ka'ili H.
9/17/2011
This hike is one of the old time favorites for locals and tourists. It's easy enough for pretty much anyone (refer to Kyle H.'s review) yet still boasts the great views of Waikiki and diamond head that by the time you reach the top you know you worked for something =) It's just beautiful and though I may have hike this mountain numerous times, I'm still stunned by the beauty of Hawai'i =)
I used to do this hike every week when I was in training and absolutely loved coming first thing in the morning. It always surprised me how many tourist go hiking at the crack of dawn! Nonetheless it was a delight to see people trek up this mountain we all know and love. For health enthusiasts this hike is good and those stairs give you those glutes you've been dreaming of!! When you reach the top early in the morning there's a sense of peace and relaxation I always felt sitting on the bench up there--- the ocean is beautiful, the breeze is refreshing, and the sun is rising---how SWEET is that!!
Admin notes: it's $5 to park inside and $1 per visitor if you're a walk in. There's also a $10 annual pass for walk ins too. It's a great deal and walking from the road in isn't so bad either. It's also about being healthy right!?
# Yelp 365 challenge-- 47/ 365 (Hikes)Listed in: YELP 365 challenge!, Let's get healthy!!, Move your body
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Review from Leanne P.
10/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
First of all, I want to throw this out there... I'm a chubster. After my wedding (a year ago!) I have not gone to the gym AT ALL. Strenuous exercise, to me, is parking at the end of the parking lot and having to walk allllllllll the way to the entrance.
So I don't know why my idiot-self decided to try this hike. I'm assuming that I had a lot of confidence (since I've got a lot of chubster friends that have also done this hike), but I didn't realize the difference that time makes (they hiked in the early morning, G and I went around noon).
The hike is strenuous (if you're a chubster like me) and you definitely should bring water (and wear shorts and sneakers). Portable fans (or air conditioners) would probably be handy as well! It took us about half an hour to make the hike up (including a few breaks so that I could catch my breath). The view from the top is amazing and worth the asthma attack and heart attack (that I'm sure I actually experienced, don't listen to my husband).
Few notes:
1) there are TWO stairways. My friends that told me to go here said that the stairs were killer, but when I got up the first set of stairs, I thought I was all set.... nope, after you go through the uphill tunnel, you hit ANOTHER set of stairs (and these are freaking steep... its like a damn ladder).
2) the stairs never end. Once you're at the top (the lookout) you'll need to go up another flight of stairs to go to the unobstructed lookout. I know you think you're going to die, but go up the stairs anyway. I took a picture of the view (with my camera phone) and I swear, I'm about to get this picture framed. The view is THAT amazing.
3) Treat yourself to a swim on the Waikiki Beach after. The water is salty, so people don't realize that you're sweating like a pig :) -
Review from Kameron K.
San Francisco, CA
The bus from downtown honolulu will take you straight to the bottom of the entrance. It will be about a 20-30 minute walk to the main entrance, the first half uphill but then its pretty flat once you get to the entrance. It's a dollar to get in if you walk in, $5 per car. The parking lot is pretty full, so suggest taking the bus.
The hike will take about 30 mins up and 30 minutes down. The hike isn't too strenuous, but we're pretty fit so we saw many people who were struggling to make their way up there. The top is definitely worth it. You get a 360 view of the honolulu/waikiki area. Watch up for the last 10-15 minutes of the hike as its all uphill/a LOT of stairs.
Make sure you bring plenty of water, a hat and a camera for pictures.
Highly recommend!Listed in: Best of Oahu
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Review from Jen R.
San Diego, CA
10/19/2011 7 photos
Diamond Head is one of my favorite "hikes" ever thus far.
I will leave my review short and sweet since there are a lot of great reviews here from other Yelpers that I do not want to repeat what is most frequently said.
So ... this "hike" or walk that you call is pretty easy. Do not feel intimidated by the length of the trail, the sets of stairways, or the height from the summit. You can wear running shoes, slippahs (my 60+ year old aunties and 7 year old niece walked in slippahs and completed the trail), and even high heel stilettos! YES, you read this correctly ... HIGH HEEL STILETTOS. I saw a Japanese female tourist rocking her stilettos with a cute skirt outfit back down the trail! If she can do this, then I am sure you can walk this trail in anything! Diamond Head definitely provides a 360 degree gorgeous view of Oahu which is all worth it.
Make sure you have plenty of water because no matter what time in the day ... the sun does beat down on your skin. Best to remain hydrated at all times. Also, wearing a hat can to ease your head from sweating and getting lightheaded from the heat.
If I lived in Honolulu, I would most likely take my walks and then jogs at Diamond Head almost every day. The trail is very enjoyable and it gives me a great workout. -
Review from Alan Y.
10/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love Diamond Head State Monument. The first time I came to Hawaii, I ran there from Waikiki, taking in the amazing roadside view as I huffed and puffed up Kalakaua Ave and through Diamond Head Road. If you come by foot (or by Da Bus), make sure to stick to the left side of the tunnel as you enter. There's a small path for foot traffic.
It's misleading to refer to this as a "hike". It's more like a strenuous walk. You'll get the heart and blood pumping for sure, but seeing obese tourists, grannies and toddlers all climbing up and down Diamond Head's trail successfully, the difficulty level is definitely quite low. Scores of Japanese tourists are doing the hike in high heels and zoris, that should say alot (yeah I wouldn't recommend this).
After you reach the staircase, and navigate the spiral stairs, you get to climb through a WWII era machine gun nest and marvel at the 360 degree view of Oahu. If you're a tourist, you'll probably have a great view of your hotel in Waikiki. You can also see dolphins breaching the water, kayakers, standup paddlers and outriggers cruising along the shoreline.
The only minus on my recent visit, was some douchebag named Mitch pretending to be some sort of local guide at the top of Diamond Head. He'd put in his two cents of information regarding the views around us, then break into his spiel about his company Guides of Oahu, and would pitch his $40 tours to all of the tourists. I'm all for promoting a local business, but I found this to be extremely wack. Then while Yelping, I saw that he had put up a half dozen fake five star reviews for his business. Not very pono of you Mr. Mitch. No sir.
Anyways, Diamond Head is a good place to get some exercise and a five star view of Oahu. -
Review from Tara K.
9/26/2011
A must stop while visiting Oahu! The hike itself is super easy and the views at the top are incredible.
We actually walked from downtown Waikiki to Diamond Head. It's about a 2 mile walk from the beach to the park entrance (slight incline, but not terrible, though it is hot). Then $1 per person to walk into the park. They give you a nice brochure about the history of DH. The hike to the top takes about 30 min. There is an incline and some steps, but if you're in any sort of shape, it's really not difficult. The most cumbersome part for me was the crouching through the tunnels (I'm super claustrophic and for some reason, I couldn't stop thinking about possible earthquakes). I do recommend you go either early or late in the day. The heat and crowds could make this hike rather uncomfortable. -
Review from Matthew P.
Boston, MA
I would recommend doing this early in the morning. The earlier the better. It's very pretty and tranquil and a great way to start off the day. There are also fewer tourists in the morning and I can only imagine how packed the place gets.
As most reviewers have said, it's more of a walk than a hike. It get's steep at the end with all the stairs and there were quite a few overweight American tourists really struggling with the first set of stairs. I can only imagine how they tackled the second set (if they did). It was mostly very fit and extremely polite Japanese tourists when we went so that was nice. I wish there was more room at the very top of the crater so that you could walk to other areas. I think I saw in a news report that they might be doing that? You have to see Diamond Head Crater if you are staying in Waikiki. It would be a sin not to.Listed in: Oahu Trip!
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Review from Shirley N.
San Jose, CA
12/18/2011
This was one of the best hikes I've ever been on. Amazing views as soon as you get to the top. I would recommend bringing lots of water, a hat, and a camera! You don't have to be completely fit to hike this trail, very family friendly :) Come early because parking can be tough. If you forget your water, there's a truck there that sells it!
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Review from Ani P.
9/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Runyon Canyon of Oahu but not as cool.
This hike is easy peasy. You climb up, go through a tunnel and then up some stairs. It was fast. The view of Honolulu was nice. But for reals, you can totally skip this hike.
I recommend this hike for people who are not physically fit to do the other amazing hikes in Oahu. Too many friggin' people. Way too many bloody tourists.
Skip this shizz... -
Review from Kyle H.
8/13/2011 6 Check-ins Here
YES you can do this if you're:
-old
-out of shape
-slow
But PLEASE - stay to the right, let people pass if you hear heavy breathing right behind you. It's not a good idea to walk next to each other or staggered or in the middle of the path.
There IS enough room for two rows of people to ascend/descend the stairs (yes, even the spiral staircase has enough room for you to safely pass without mooshing your sweaty body against others). Finally, PLEASE for the love of god, don't be the cause of a log-jam in the tunnel. It's dark and stuffy in there and it's not fun coming to a stand-still midway through with lines of people ahead and in back of you.
After frequent visits, i've found it's best to go in the late-afternoon to avoid the tourist-bus crowd, just make sure you're in the gate by 4:30 (park closes at 6). It will be hot but if you're visiting to try to work in a jog up for fitness, it's an efficient workout!
The one year walk-in pass is only $10 for a year, a steal if you visit twice a week like me! See you at the top!
#13/365Listed in: Yelp 365 Challenge, Let's get physical
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