Diamond Head, Hawaii Mountain

Address: Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, Oʻahu, Hawaii, USA (Leahi / Diamond Head)

Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/

Hours: Crater and parklands accessible daily 6:00am-6:00pm (check state park notices for closures)

Admission: Free to view from outside; access to crater rim and hiking trails free (parking fees may apply)

Diamond Head, known in Hawaiian as Leahi, is a volcanic tuff cone on the island of Oahu, adjacent to the Waikiki neighborhood of Honolulu. The feature formed as part of the Honolulu Volcanics and is a distinctive, highly visible coastal landmark.

A popular short hike leads through the crater to the rim and summit where panoramic views stretch over Waikiki, Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean; the summit sits at about 232 metres above sea level. The interior crater, walking paths and lookout points are the primary attractions and are used for day hikes and photography.

The cone was created by volcanic activity roughly a few hundred thousand years ago and later served strategic military functions, with coastal defense installations and observation posts added in the early 20th century. Over time the area transitioned from military use to a public park and recreational landmark.

Diamond Head sits on Oahu’s south shore at the eastern edge of Waikiki, a short drive from central Honolulu. Its proximity to urban Honolulu makes it one of the island’s most accessible natural viewpoints.

• Trail and summit: The summit sits at about 232 metres elevation and the trail to the top is commonly described as a 1.6-mile (roughly 2.6 km) round trip, with steep sections and stairs.
• Visiting tips: Early morning or late afternoon visits give cooler conditions and better light for views over Waikiki; a small park fee and opening hours are maintained at the entrance.

What to See#

• Summit and rim: The summit lookout area and rim give sweeping views over Waikiki, Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean from about 232 metres above sea level.
• Summit Trail: The Diamond Head Summit Trail is the main visitor route through the crater to the summit; it involves stairs and short tunneled sections and is the most direct public access to the rim.

From Waikiki, Diamond Head is a 15-20 minute drive or a 30-40 minute walk. Public buses (TheBus routes 23 and 2) go close to the park entrance. Parking at the state monument is limited and paid.

• Arrive early morning to avoid the road crowds and to capture the softer light on the crater rim.
• If hiking to the summit, allow at least 1-2 hours for the trail and be prepared for steep sections.
• Combine a visit with a walk to nearby Kapiʻolani Park or an early swim at nearby Waikiki beaches before crowds build.