United States
Hawaii (HI)
Oahu
Honolulu
Things to Do in Honolulu
‪Diamond Head State Monument

‪Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu: Hours, Address, ‪Diamond Head State Monument Reviews: 4.5/5

See all things to do

‪Diamond Head State Monument

See all things to do
See all things to do
‪Diamond Head State Monument
4.5
23,925
#1 of 347 things to do in Honolulu
Hiking Trails • Scenic Walking Areas
Read more
6:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Monday
6:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Tuesday
6:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Wednesday
6:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Thursday
6:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Friday
6:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Saturday
6:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Sunday
6:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Write a review
About
A dormant volcano crater.
Suggested duration
< 1 hour
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listing
Tours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
What is Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best?
This award is our highest recognition and is presented annually to those businesses that are the Best of the Best on Tripadvisor, those that earn excellent reviews from travelers and are ranked in the top 1% of properties worldwide.
Learn more
Top ways to experience ‪Diamond Head State Monument
See all
The area
Address
Neighborhood: Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis
Best nearby
Restaurants
921 within 3 miles
Banan
216
0.6 mi$ • Dessert • Healthy • Vegetarian Friendly
Diamond Head Market & Grill
827
0.7 mi$ • Quick Bites • American • Fast Food
South Shore Grill
303
0.7 mi$ • Quick Bites • American • Seafood
Pioneer Saloon
375
0.7 mi$ • Quick Bites • Japanese • Asian
Bogart's Cafe
651
0.7 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Cafe • Hawaiian
Ars Cafe
72
0.7 mi$ • Quick Bites • Cafe • Vegetarian Friendly
Diamond Head Cove Health Bar
198
0.7 mi$ • Quick Bites • Cafe • Vegetarian Friendly
Cafe Morey's
84
0.7 mi$ • Quick Bites • American • Vegetarian Friendly
Hawaii Sushi
52
0.7 mi$ • Japanese • Seafood • Sushi
Fort Ruger Market
44
0.6 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • Seafood • Polynesian
See all
Attractions
272 within 6 miles
Diamond Head Visitor Center
3
431 ftVisitor Centers
Shangri La
938
0.7 miHistoric Sites • Architectural Buildings
Saturday Farmer's Market KCC
816
0.5 miFarmers Markets
Waikiki Beach
18,544
1.4 miBeaches
Kahala Lookout
1
0.3 miLookouts
Kapiolani Park
1,111
1 miBeaches • Parks
Saint Augustine by-the-Sea
579
1.4 miArchitectural Buildings • Religious Sites
Kaimana Beach
336
1.1 miBeaches
Dolphin Quest
1,595
2 miSwim with Dolphins
Diamond Head Crater Hike
15
0.5 miHiking Trails
See all
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
23,926 reviews
Excellent
15,512
Very good
6,844
Average
1,329
Poor
170
Terrible
73
ashleyinthesky
Los Angeles, CA104 contributions
Crowded hike, nice views from summit
Had reservations for 8:00-9:00am entry. You currently need reservations to enter on foot ($5) or park (additional fee). The hike to the main observation point was not too challenging, 30-40 minutes to the top. It was very, very crowded though, making it difficult to navigate the stairs and observation areas. Path is very uneven in areas, still navigable but could be challenging for folks with limited mobility. Paths were particularly crowded near the start of reservation times (e.g., 8:00am, 9:00am). A better strategy may be to start hike 30 minutes after reservation start time (e.g., 8:30am, 9:30am) to avoid some of the worst crowding. The park is assessible by short bus trip from Waikiki for those who do not have a car or cannot get parking reservation.
Written July 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
307leven
Stroudsburg, PA139 contributions
Excellent hike offering great views.
We took a cab from Waikiki on the first Thursday of December. The cost for Diamond Head was $5/person, but if you drive, they also charge $10 to park. The park doesn't accept cash - only credit/debit card. Hike to the summit took over 1/2 hour due to some parts being steep and taking photo breaks, etc. When you go through the tunnel toward the top, you have to go either left or right - we went left because it's not quite as steep as going right and through the steps and spiral steps in the bunker. We spent about 20 minutes at the top admiring the great views before we started our descent going through the bunker on the way down. We arrived at 8:45 am so it wasn't too busy, but it started getting crowded before we left at about 10:30 after drinking a pineapple drink at the bottom. We walked back to Waikiki (about 2.5 to 3 miles because we visited the Honolulu Zoo which is on the way back. If you go, bring water, sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes. I would describe the hike as moderate as it wasn't too difficult, but it helps to be in reasonably good shape.
Written December 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Z4859BAjohnm
Long Beach, CA50 contributions
Unlike any other area on the island
There are two ways to enjoy Diamond Head - the fast way and the hard but rewarding way. The fast way is to drive into the crater and go to the visitor area, but if you want something really great, take the hike up to the top ridge. I'm not going to lie, it's a tough hike. It's not even a mile, but there's a lot of elevation gain and a lot of stairs! But believe me when I say the view is worth it. Wear good hiking shoes, bring a lot of water and a hat that can't blow away. The climate at Diamond Head isn't the typical green jungle you get everywhere else on the island. This is more arid with chaparral and rough terrain like you might find in the foothills of Southern California. A must see if you're going to Oahu! It's a state park, so you can enter any day on your own ($10 to park in the crater), but I recommend going earlier in the day. Some days can get pretty crowded so, especially in the afternoon. There's also a number of packaged tours that include a visit, but going on your own is a good and cheaper option.
Written August 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Alison K
Lodi, NJ759 contributions
Busy Place to Hike, Worth Doing Once
Couples
Took an uber to the visitor center. The uber drivers have to pay $2 fee to get through the gate for the day, so I felt a little bad but the uber was $11+ from Waikiki. It was still early (around 9am) so he could make multiple trips up and make up for it.

Not too hard of a hike, but plenty of people on the path going up and coming down which was kind of annoying at times. Trying to get by people took some time because there was always someone coming down and there is only room for 1 row of people on either side.

There were points where the path was pretty uneven, and I was a little shocked to see a lady with flip flops carrying a baby in a sling. At the top viewpoint some people were a little pushy and hogging the best photo spot, but people were also helpful in taking each other's photos. The little bunker before the top was cute. Tunnels were a bit tight.

Worth doing once to say I did it but not necessary to do it again. I think we hiked it in about 45 minutes. Bring a bottle or 2 of water.
Written January 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Wanderernotlost
Danville, PA45 contributions
Fun morning hike
Family
Fun early morning outing - definitely go as early as possible due to heat & crowds. We started our hike at 8am & was already packed. We took an Uber from our hotel & highly recommend doing this as parking is very limited. The hike is on little bit of rocky terrain but not bad at all & has railings along the edges for balance. There are some steep stairs to climb in one part of the hike near the end. Beautiful views of the city, ocean & landscape from the top & we were lucky enough to see a rainbow. The reward of the hike is at the end where there is a refreshment stand with smoothies in pineapples, fresh pineapple & açaí bowls. We were easily able to get an Uber ride back home. The whole hike was about an hour for us with many stops for photos, water breaks. Would recommend but emphasize the early morning arrival!
Written July 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
tarredlog
Vancouver, WA17 contributions
Persistence pays off
Can't beat the exercise and great views from the top of Diamond Head. The new ticketing system helps keep the crowds manageable. If you drive into the park, make sure to book ahead. If you walk in, more likely to be able to get a ticket at the last minute. Recommend booking before you start walking from Waikiki to make sure the walk will be worth your while. The road from Waikiki to the park is pretty non-descript and there isn't much tree cover. There are several tunnels involved, some rather tight, so not good if you have claustrophobia.
Written July 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Andrew F
Thousand Oaks, CA16 contributions
All good except for parking
Family
My family of 4 hiked diamond head, took us about 30 minutes to go up, 25 to go down, and It was amazing, one of the best hikes I’ve ever done. HOWEVER, the reason for only two stars is the parking problem! We drove our car all the way into the crater to the parking lot, but as we kept getting closer we noticed they were steering people away, and making them turn around. When we got to the near front of the line, we saw a sign saying “parking lot full”. Now, I understand it’s crowded and all, but they really should have put the sign up more (maybe by the cave tunnel you have to drive through) so people don’t have to drive all the way there just to get turned around to leave at the entrance to the lot. What we did was park our car in a neighborhood and got a olive that dropped us off at the lot. They really need to get there parking situation under control. If all those cars were able to park (and therefore pay the parking fee) this monument could be making a whole lot more of money! So, I’d recommend either making the sign that the lots full more visable and further up, or allowing people to park in the huge open dirt field right next to the parking lot!
Written August 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
marieny524
Los Angeles, CA451 contributions
Must Do - Iconic Views!
I was hesitant to do this hike because I have young kids, and wasn't sure how difficult it would be. I was also worried about parking, especially because I knew we would be coming midday, not early in the morning as others have suggested. I'm happy to say everything worked out fine, and the views were truly iconic to Oahu and the hike a must do.

We arrived just after 2pm and while parking was definitely limited, we were able to get a spot without waiting.

FYI, there is a $10 fee to park PLUS a $5 fee PER HIKER to hike. I found this to be a bit much, but it was fine in the end.

My 7 year old struggled a bit as the sun was warm, but there was a strong breeze and some shade on the trail at that time, which made the walk easier. We took our time and still made it to the top in just about 40 minutes. Yes there are a lot of stairs and I wasn't crazy about the narrow tunnel, but it was not as hard as I thought it would be. There are plenty of areas along the way you can rest, and we did. I wouldn't recommend walking up with a backpack - just a bottle of water. You will definitely work up a good sweat by the time you get to the top, but I was really blown away by the city & ocean views. It was 100 percent worth the effort!

Best part was the reward of an icy cold pineapple smoothie and mango dole whip after we finished the hike. Nothing bad to say about this one! a must do!
Written April 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ITRT
Virginia37,879 contributions
Oahu’s Famous Landmark
Le’ahi , which translates to forehead of fish, is what Native Hawaiians call Diamond Head. It is the most known volcanic formation in Hawaii but is not a volcano but is a crater formed by another volcano. In 1905, a military reservation called Fort Ruger was built inside the crater. It is no longer a military facility. Diamond Head State Monument is opened daily from 6 am to 6 pm. Beginning in May 2022, non-residents must have a reservation to enter. Reservations can be made up to 14 days before your arrival date. Parking for non-residents is $10 per car. The summit trail head is located from the parking lot of the crater floor. The trail is steep, uneven, and not ADA accessible. Depending on which trail you take, be prepared to climb either 99 or 76 steep steps. The last visitors must arrive by 4 PM. We were unable to see the crater because we were there 10 minutes after the gates were closed. Note to self: Check open and close times.
Written June 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
FlorecitaDaisy
Phoenix, AZ245 contributions
Beautiful views!
Friends
During our recent trip to Hawaii, hiking Diamond Head Crater was one thing we trained for. For the average person, this may be an easy to moderate hike but for me, being overweight and out of shape, this was a challenge, and still I decided to give it a try. On the way up, we encountered people from all ages and this was encouraging. There is some paved road but mostly uneven terrain and stairs. The pathways are very narrow and you constantly bump into people going the opposite direction. We arrived around 7am to beat the crowds and we were quite smart in doing so. I don't recall the exact number of steps but it was a lot. Despite the challenge, I don't regret doing it and I didn't give up! Once you make it to the top, you are met with breathtaking views of Honolulu. I would recommend this hike and if you're limited as I am, just pace yourself and take breaks. There are several areas along the way with benches thankfully and it also helps that there are railing along the way so it makes it easier to navigate through the rough terrain and stairs.
Written June 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
2
…
Showing results 1-10 of 18,840
Anything missing or inaccurate?
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listing
Frequently Asked Questions about ‪Diamond Head State Monument
‪Diamond Head State Monument is open:
  • Sun - Sat 6:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Buy tickets in advance on Tripadvisor. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund.
We recommend booking ‪Diamond Head State Monument tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 131 ‪Diamond Head State Monument tours on Tripadvisor
Restaurants near ‪Diamond Head State Monument: View all restaurants near ‪Diamond Head State Monument on Tripadvisor