How Long Hike Diamond Head
Diamond Head is a popular hiking spot located in the Koolau Range in Oahu, Hawaii. It is roughly 1.6 miles each way and it can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours depending on your fitness level and how many stops you make along the way. The trailhead begins at the Diamond Head State Monument Visitors Center and ascends 560 feet to the summit of the Diamond Head crater.
Along the hike, visitors will be able to enjoy breathtaking views of Honolulu’s cityscape, Waikiki Beach, and more distant sights such as Pearl Harbor. Make sure you bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes for this moderately strenuous hike!
Hiking Diamond Head is one of the most popular activities in Hawaii due to its breathtaking views and convenient location. The hike is only 0.8 miles long, but with an elevation gain of 560 feet, it can be quite challenging for some hikers. Due to the steep grade and uneven terrain, it usually takes about 1-2 hours for a person to complete the round-trip hike up and down Diamond Head.
Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks along with you so that you have enough energy to make it all the way up!

Credit: www.best-of-oahu.com
Is Diamond Head an Easy Hike?
Diamond Head is a popular hike located in Oahu, Hawaii. It provides spectacular views of the city and ocean from the top of its volcanic crater. Although it may seem like an easy hike at first glance, Diamond Head can be quite challenging for those who are not used to hiking or have physical limitations.
The trail is steep and rocky with stairs that lead you up to the summit. Depending on your fitness level, this hike could take anywhere between thirty minutes to two hours round-trip. The terrain is mostly exposed so make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen as well as wear proper shoes for traction.
While it may be difficult at times, the view from the top makes it all worthwhile!
What is the Best Time to Hike Diamond Head?
The best time to hike Diamond Head is during the early morning when it’s cool and the sun isn’t too high in the sky. This allows you to take your time and enjoy sweeping views of Honolulu and Waikiki Beach from the summit. The trail is well-marked with a number of switchbacks that lead up to the top.
Make sure you bring plenty of water as there is no shade on this open mountaintop. Depending on your pace, plan for a minimum of two hours round trip; if you want more time or are bringing children who may need breaks along the way, then aim for three or four hours total. And don’t forget your camera!
How Long Should You Spend at Diamond Head?
Diamond Head is one of the most iconic sights in Hawaii and a must-see for any visitor to Oahu. But how long should you spend at Diamond Head? That depends on what type of experience you’re looking for.
If you’re simply looking to take some pictures, an hour or two would be plenty of time to get your shots and enjoy the views from the observation deck. However, if hiking is more your style, plan on spending anywhere from three to five hours exploring this historic volcano crater. The hike itself takes about 1.5 hours round trip but can easily be extended with diversions along the way such as taking a dip in Makapu’u Beach or strolling around nearby Fort Ruger Park which offers stunning ocean views that often include whales breaching during winter months!
Is Diamond Head Hike Worth It?
Hiking Diamond Head is a must-do activity for any traveler to Oahu. Not only does it provide stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu, but it’s also an adventure that will leave you with incredible memories. The hike itself is not overly difficult and can be completed in under two hours, making it suitable for all skill levels.
Most people find that the reward of reaching the top makes every step worth it – from spotting whales breaching offshore to taking in breathtaking vistas – this unique experience offers something special even if you’re traveling alone or on a budget. Plus, there are plenty of places along the trail where hikers can take picturesque photos to remember this journey long after their trip has ended. All things considered, hiking Diamond Head is definitely worth it!
How Long Does It Take to Walk from Waikiki to Diamond Head?
The walk from Waikiki to Diamond Head is a popular and scenic route on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. It takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to walk the 2.5 miles (4 km) distance between these two points. The trail starts at Kapiolani Park at its west end near Waikiki Beach, heading east up toward the volcanic crater known as Diamond Head State Monument.
Along the way, you will pass through lush rainforest areas with plenty of tropical vegetation and stunning views across Honolulu’s coastal skyline. If you are looking for an enjoyable alternative to driving or taking public transportation in this area, then this is definitely a great option! Pack some snacks, sunscreen, and water so that you can enjoy your time soaking in all of the natural beauty that surrounds you while walking along this path.
Can You Visit Diamond Head Without Hiking?
Yes, you can visit Diamond Head without hiking. There is a road that leads up to the summit of the crater where you will find breathtaking views and plenty of photo opportunities. You can take your car or catch a bus from Waikiki which takes approximately 20 minutes to get there.
Once at the top, visitors are able to explore through an underground tunnel which provides access to two observation platforms located within the interior walls of the crater offering stunning panoramic views of Honolulu and its surrounding areas. If walking is more your style then there is also a 0.8 mile (1.2 km) long path that goes around and up with it taking about 1 hour depending on how often you stop for pictures along the way or just enjoy nature’s beauty provided by this remarkable natural landmark in Hawaii!
Hiking Diamond Head – Oahu, Hawaii – Plus 4 Tips For a Successful Hike!
Diamond Head Hike Reservations
The Diamond Head hike is a popular attraction in Honolulu and reservations are highly recommended as the trail can get quite crowded. To make a reservation, simply visit the official website of the State of Hawaii Division of Forestry and Wildlife where you can purchase an advance ticket to secure your spot on the trail. Advance tickets must be purchased at least 48 hours before your desired time slot, so plan ahead!
Diamond Head Hike Difficulty
The Diamond Head hike is considered a moderate-difficulty hike, as it requires some physical exertion due to its steep incline. The total distance of the hike is 0.8 miles (1.3 km), and while this may not seem like much, the ascent up the mountain can be quite challenging. This challenge makes it a great workout for those looking to get in shape or just enjoy some amazing views from atop one of Oahu’s most iconic landmarks!
Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head State Monument is one of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks and a popular tourist destination. Located on the southeastern side of Oahu, Diamond Head provides stunning views of Waikiki Beach and Honolulu from its 760-foot summit. The hike to the top takes about an hour or two depending on your level of fitness and you can take in some incredible sights along the way.
At the top, visitors can explore a World War II bunker built by the US Army Corps of Engineers as well as enjoy 360-degree panoramic views.
Diamond Head Crater
Diamond Head Crater is a volcanic tuff cone located on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. It is believed to have been formed over 300,000 years ago and stands approximately 760 feet high. Diamond Head has become an iconic landmark in Hawaii, and its summit offers panoramic views of Waikiki Beach, Honolulu cityscape, and the Pacific Ocean.
The crater was used as a strategic military lookout during World War II which left behind several bunkers and trails that are open for visitors to explore today.
Conclusion
This blog post has provided a comprehensive overview of the hike to Diamond Head. From the length and difficulty of the hike, to what visitors should expect when they arrive at the summit, readers now have a good understanding of this popular destination. Whether you are looking for an easy morning stroll or a challenging afternoon adventure, make sure to take some time out of your day and explore Diamond Head.
The views from the top will be well worth it!