Diamond Head State Monument

Great views, the second half the steep staircase is now closed but you can still make it to the top. Amazing views of Waikiki and the East shoreline. $5 entrance fee per person, payable by credit card only. $10 for parking if you bring a car. Easy walk through the tunnel if you decide the skip the car and want some exercise.

My 10-year-old son says it was the highlight of his trip to Oahu. Went on a sunny day and had beautiful views in all directions. You cannot see a bit of Waikiki until the last few steps, so it's an exciting payoff at the end! Walk is not difficult, took us probably less than 30 minutes one way even though we stopped frequently to take pictures. There is a fun tunnel along the way, too, near the top. Also, don't miss the snack stand after the hike: pineapples full of Dole whip and many other cold treats that are great refreshers, and you can enjoy them at some nice picnic tables under the trees. While sitting there, we saw a mongoose.

A beautiful hike for all skill levels. That being said, be aware there are a lot of stairs and you'll want to wear athletic sneakers. I saw someone wearing platform Gucci sneakers and you definitely don't want to be that person. Treat yourself to a refreshment at the Honolulu Pineapple truck after-- you've earned it!

It's special to me because I had only ever seen it either from a far, or in movies etc. It is iconic to me since I was a Hawaiian kid raised on the mainland. Every picture book I ever saw about Hawaii, had Diamond Head on the cover or in its pages. It always stirred curiosity on me. As for the hike, it is recommended! Super interesting historical facts from geology to World war 2. Check it out!

Beautiful hike! Since this is a volcano, it's a little different from a standard mountain hike. The trail is rock, and rough at parts, so definitely wear sneakers or hiking shoes. Be prepared for lots of stairs!nThis is a major tourist attraction, so I recommend going early in the morning to avoid crowds. If you take the bus, you'll have quite a distance to walk (about a mile) before entering the crater and starting the hike.