Review:

Overlooking Waikiki’s coastline, Diamond Head is the most recognizable Hawaiian landmark. This 300,000-year-old volcanic crater is protected within the 475-acre Diamond Head State Monument and is one of the most popular hikes out of Honolulu – the views from the trail end are nothing less than spectacular. The trail to the summit of Diamond Head or Le‘ahi was created in 1908 as part of the island’s defense system. The hike from trailhead is only 0.8-miles long but is steep and difficult.

It has an elevation gain of 560 feet between the crater floor and the peak. A concrete trail was built to control erosion, and it changes to a natural volcanic rock or tuff after about 0.2 miles. The trail forms a number of switchbacks as it crosses the slope of the interior of the crater. The climb continues up a steep set of stairs and then through a 225-foot tunnel to arrive at the 1911 Fire Control Station. The effort will be well worth it once you see the breathtaking view of the coast from Koko Head to Wai‘anae.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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