The Diamond Head Summit Trail is 1.6 miles round trip, and DLNR rates it moderate. The hike from the crater-floor parking lot to the summit is 0.8 mile one way and climbs 560 feet.
How long is the trail to Diamond Head, Hawaii?
DLNR says to allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the hike. If the hike is part of a bigger outing, plan for the bike tour's full length. The Bike Tour Hawaii Diamond Head Bike to Hike tour runs 4 hours, in total.
Can a beginner hike Diamond Head?
Beginners should weigh the terrain below against their own fitness. The 0.8-mile hike from trailhead to summit is steep and strenuous. DLNR rates the Diamond Head Summit Trail as moderate.
DLNR lists falling rocks as a hazard on the summit trail. Wear good walking shoes, bring water, and wear a hat and sunscreen. Stay on the trail.
Can I walk into Diamond Head without a reservation?
Entry and parking reservations are required for non-residents at Diamond Head State Monument, in effect since May 12, 2022. Book through the official Diamond Head State Monument online reservation system, where you reserve and buy entry tickets and, if needed, parking. Reservations may be made up to 30 days in advance. DLNR says the park may sell out at busy times of day, so book as soon as you can.
Build your visit around the park's hours. The park is open 6:00 am to 6:00 pm daily, with last entry at 4:30 pm for the 4:00 pm reservation. Diamond Head State Monument is closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. All visitors must exit through the tunnel to the crater exterior by 6:00 pm. Visitors with a parking reservation must leave by the end time of that reservation period.
Entry costs $5 for non-Hawaii residents. Hawaii residents are free with a Hawaii ID or driver's license. Visitors accompanying Hawaii residents are not exempt from entry fees and must buy in advance.
Is Diamond Head worth going to?
Go if you want a summit view and historic military structures. The summit has bunkers and a navigational lighthouse built in 1917. That station directed artillery fire from batteries in Waikiki and Fort Ruger.
The summit view runs along the shoreline from Koko Head to Waiʻanae.
The crater formed about 300,000 years ago in a single explosive eruption.
If you want a guided option, Bike Tour Hawaii runs Diamond Head tours. Bike Tour Hawaii's Diamond Head Bike to Hike is based in Waikiki. Bike Tour Hawaii's Diamond Head Electric Bike to Hike is also run by Bike Tour Hawaii.
What is the hardest trail to hike in Hawaii?
Weigh the 560-foot climb against your own fitness before you go.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a fee to hike Diamond Head?
Non-Hawaii residents pay $5 to enter.
Can I bring my dog to Diamond Head?
No. Pets are not allowed in the park except service animals.
Is the Diamond Head summit trail wheelchair accessible?
No. The crater-floor facilities are fully accessible, but the summit trail is not ADA accessible.
