Hike Diamond Head Crater, Oahu Hawaii

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Hike to the top of Diamond Head crater, one of the most iconic sites on Oahu. A 0.75-mile (1.1-km) hike leads to the edge of the crater's rim and should take 1½-2 hours. The trail was built in 1908 and was initally used by the military to defend Oahu from invaders. Today hikers climb it to see some of the most spectacular views of the island. Although not difficult, the signs also say that the hike is not a casual one: the mostly unpaved trail winds over uneven rock, ascends 74 steps, then through a tunnel and up another steep 99 steps. Next is a small lighted tunnel to a narrow spiral staircase (43 steps) inside acoastal artillery observation platform built in 1908. Batteries were built to house the coastal artillery. A total of five batteries were built at Diamond Head crater: Harlow (1910) on the northern exterior; Dodge and Hulings (1913) which tunnel through the eastern wall; Birkhimer (1916) which is largely below ground inside the crater; and Battery 407 (1943) which tunnels through the southern wall. The trailhead is adjacent to the parking lot within Diamond Head State Monument. Walking from Waikiki Beach to the base of the crater takes about an hour. Make sure to should wear comfortable shoes. Some parts of the ascent can be strenuous, and near the summit. Those suffering from claustrophobia should ask for the alternate route to the top around the 225-foot narrow tunnel. The entrance is off Diamond Head Road between Makapu'u Avenue and 18th Avenue, Honolulu. Entry fee of $5 per vehicle or $1 per walk-in visitor. Diamond Head is also accessible via a short ride on the 22, 23 and 24 buses from Waikiki. Mountain Biking is not allowed on this trail. Dogs are not allow Diamond Head State Monument.

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