Diamond Head

It’s a Jewel of a Hike

Diamond Head- It’s more than 100 stair steps to the lookout, but worth it. Bring water, a flashlight and camera; rest a spell when you reach the top—the view stretches for miles.

If you’re not already winded by the time you reach the top of Diamond Head, what awaits you at the top will certainly take your breath away.

On a clear day, see the outline of Molokai in the east. Toward the center of the island you’ll see the koolau or mountains, and the views of Honolulu and Waikiki are simply spectacular.

Paths for the hike are well defined. There are steps and dark tunnels through old war bunkers. Depending on your pace, the trek will take one hour uphill and 45 minutes back down.

There are no park personnel to lead the way; just follow the hundreds of visitors who ascend Diamond Head everyday. Restrooms and water fountain are located near the parking lot; a grassy area is great for picnics although there are few trees.

The Clean Air Team conducts a hike at 9 a.m. on Saturdays. Meet at the windsock in front of Honolulu Zoo, (808)948-3299.

Drive up Diamond Head Road until you reach the sign that reads Diamond Head Crater . From Waikiki, take the #58 bus up to Diamond Head Road. Just ask the driver to let you off before the road leads into Diamond Head crater.

Gates open daily at 6 a.m. and close at 6 p.m., (808)587-0300. Get there early to beat the rush and the heat.

WHAT YOU NEED
•Walking or hiking shoes
•Bottle of water
•Flashlight for seeing your way in the tunnels
•Sunscreen, towel
•Binoculars (optional)
•Camera

GUIDED TOURS
•Oahu Nature Tours, (808)924-2473
•Clean Air Team, (808)948-3299

FACTS
•The summit was given its name because sailors in the 1800s found calcite crystals there that resembled diamonds
•Also called the wreath of fire or fire headland because of navigational fires lit to assist canoes traveling along the southeast shore of Oahu.
•An heiau (temple) was built on the summit and dedicated to God of Wind as protection from strong updraft putting out the navigational fires.
•A plaque on Diamond Head Rd. memorializes Amelia Earhart’s 1935 12-hour, 50-min. flight from Honolulu to Oakland, Calif.