Diamond Head Crater Trailhead

Hiking area in Honolulu, Hawaii

Introduction

Trail Information

🚶‍♂️ Length: The trail is 1.6 miles round trip.
⏱️ Duration: The hike typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
📈 Elevation Gain: The trail ascends 560 feet from the crater floor to the summit.
🌿 Terrain: The trail starts with a concrete walkway and transitions to a natural tuff surface with steep stairs and a lighted tunnel.
🔦 Tunnel: The trail includes a 225-foot lighted tunnel.
🏞️ Views: Offers panoramic views from Koko Head to Wai‘anae, and potential whale sightings in winter.

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Historical Significance

🏰 Military History: The trail was built in 1908 as part of O‘ahu’s coastal defense system.
🔭 Fire Control Station: Completed in 1911, directed artillery fire from batteries in Waikiki and Fort Ruger.
🗺️ Bunkers: Features bunkers and a navigational lighthouse built in 1917.
🌋 Geological Formation: Formed about 300,000 years ago during a single, explosive eruption.
🏛️ Cultural Significance: Known to Native Hawaiians as Lē‘ahi, historically a site of worship and human sacrifice.

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Visitor Tips

🕒 Best Time: Early morning to avoid crowds and heat.
🧢 Essentials: Wear good walking shoes, bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
📸 Photography: Great photo opportunities along the trail and at the summit.
🚫 Restrictions: No pets allowed except service animals.
🕶️ Weather: Check local weather reports before visiting.

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Accessibility

♿ Crater Floor: Fully accessible to those with disabilities.
🚶‍♂️ Trail: Not ADA accessible, very steep and uneven in some areas.
🪜 Stairs: The last 1/10 of a mile is all stairs and especially steep.
⏳ Time: Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the hike.

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Parking and Fees

💵 Entry Fee: $5 per person for non-residents, free for Hawaii residents with ID.
🚗 Parking Fee: $10 per vehicle for non-residents, free for residents with ID.
💳 Payment: Credit card only.
🅿️ Parking Locations: Multiple parking options including free and paid lots.

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Nearby Attractions

🏖️ Waikiki Beach: Famous beach located nearby.
🌺 Kapiolani Park: Large public park with various amenities.
🏛️ Honolulu Zoo: Located in Kapiolani Park, great for families.
🌊 Waikiki Aquarium: Offers marine exhibits and educational programs.
🛍️ Shopping: Various shopping options in Waikiki.

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Travel Information
🌐 Website: https://noahlangphotography.com/blog/diamond-head-trail-waikiki-oahu-hawaii
🕒 Hours: See hours
📍 Address: Kapahulu, Honolulu, HI 96815
🔗 Profiles:

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "How is the ACTUAL Diamond Head Hike | Real-Time HIKE ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CiPklTdD2rk", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Jul 28, 2021", "length": "" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Hiking Diamond Head | Most Famous Landmark in Hawaii", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzB7n4j0I3o", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "May 21, 2023", "length": "" }</div>