A short but challenging trek to the summit of Hawaii's most iconic landmark
The extinct volcanic crater known as Diamond Head, or Leahi in the Hawaiian language is one of the state’s most famous landmarks. It’s also a favorite day hike that rewards a demanding but manageable climb with fantastic views of the island.
The reward for climbing some 560 feet and negotiation 200-plus stairs is a sweeping 360-degree view of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach and the island of Oahu. Photo: iStock
Within sight of downtown Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, 475-acre Diamond Head State Monument encompasses the interior and outer slopes of its namesake crater. Hikes begin inside the crater at the monument’s information center, which is reached via a roadway that tunnels through the eastern wall of the crater.
The Diamond Head National Monument is reached through the Kahala tunnel, which was cut through the base of the crater wall. Photo: Robert Cravens/iStock
The .8 mile walking trail begins with a concrete pathway, then transitions to packed rock and dirt as it begins a climb up a series of cliff-hanging switchbacks. Walkers can catch their breath and take in views of the crater’s interior at the first rest stop, and then the real fun begins. A long set of concrete stairs (74 in all) lead to a tunnel, then a second thigh-straining 99- step stairway and another tunnel.
Next comes a three-story spiral staircase that rises through a chimney cut into the lava rock. When you finally re-emerge into daylight after all this stair climbing and tunneling, it’s just a short walk to the fire control station. This concrete-and-steel bunker is the actual reason for the infrastructure you have just climbed.
After ascending a series of switchbacks, the trail to the Diamond Head summit enters a long tunnel, carved more that 100 years ago as part of the island’s coastal defense system. Photo: Jeff Nagy/iStock
The trail was constructed in 1908 to give access to this observation post, which served as an artillery spotter’s station for Oahu’s coastal defense system. From the station, a flight of metal stairs rises to an open observation deck that provides 360-degree views of island and ocean. Congratulations, you have climbed a total of 560 feet and 200-plus stairs, and can now enjoy one of the most scenic vistas in Hawaii.
The observation post that once served as an artillery triangulation station is the high point of the Diamond Head Trial, reached via a flight of sturdy metal stairs. Photo: Robert Cravens/iStock
Plan on two hours for the entire hike up and back, and take water and a few snacks, as there are no concessions along the trail. The Monument opens at 6:30 am, and locals recommend starting early to avoid crowds and mid-day heat. If you visit in winter, it’s possible to arrive before dawn, and take in the sunrise from the summit.
Though the climb can be steep, the Diamond Head walking trail is very secure. Many sections that follow steep cliffs or ridges have permanent handrails. Photo: Anna Bryukhanova/iStock
