When the ash and gas stopped what was left was diamond head crater which geologists often call this type of crater a tuff cone. Diamond head crater hike with expert nature guide pickup. A visit to diamond head hawaii does require some walking. Fantastic photo opportunities from rest stops along the way. The trail climbs the inside slope of diamond head for about 0. I found the diamond head crater hike tiring as it was pretty warm and the terrain was steep. Even if rising at dawn is the last thing you want to do on vacation, definitely consider the earliest departure times for the diamond head crater hike. A guide for hiking the diamond head crater in oahu hawaii. Diamond head state monument honolulu 2020 all you need to. However, we learnt some valuable lessons on our hike that we want to share with those who are planning on hiking diamond head. It will take you about 1,5 2 hours to complete from the entrance and back. Once you pass through that tunnel to the crater interior, youll reach the. The crater was the location of several concerts in the 1960s and 1970s.
A 1975 televised game show, the diamond head game was set at diamond head. Finding a spot for your car can be more challenging than the hike itself. While it may look like a tough, long hike from afar, it really only takes about an hour to get to the top, rewarding you with 360degree views of waikiki, honolulu, and the surrounding area. Diamond head leahi summit trail closed oahu, hawaii. Amazing views from diamond head trail, hawaii i found the diamond head crater hike tiring as it was pretty warm and the terrain was steep. Diamond head see more photos, view panorama is one of the most famous landmarks on oahu and the entire state of hawaii. Visit pearl harbor with a guide and learn about hawaiis role in the war. As you go, your guide will discuss the craters history, flora, fauna and geology, and will point out the diverse plant and bird species found in the area. This 760foot tuff crater is one of hawaiis most famous landmarks. Everything inside the crater is government owned because its a national park. Relatively easy and short hike up to diamond head views are absolutely stunning. Hawaiis most recognized landmark is known for its historic hiking trail, stunning coastal views, and military history.
Drive along the coast past the honolulu zoo, kapiolani park, the waikiki aquarium, the war memorial, around diamond head lookout, down kahala ave and back up to the entrance of diamond head state monument. Theres some interesting information about the crater and the hike, and theyre worth reading. Diamond head state monument patch pacific historic parks. The pdf files are only about 14 the size of the photos. Once at the top, the weather changed and we had a patch of rain which made the path slippery for our descent. Diamond head state monument was established in 1962. Embroidered patch featuring the diamond head state monument logo. Hiking diamond head might first appear to be a challenging all day climb, but this oahu hiking trail can look deceiving, as it really only takes about 40 to 60 minutes to reach the 760foot summit.
The crater was used by the military and some of the bunkers pillboxes used by the gunners were built in 1915. Please be aware that the best time to go here is early in. From its geography to the legends surrounding it to the wildlife you may pass by on your trek up, the 60minute audio tour is your guide to everything you could possibly want to know about diamond head. Bring plenty of water, a few snacks and pack sunscreen. Diamond head state monument encompasses over 475 acres, including the interior and outer slopes of the crater. We found diamond head a refreshing change from our more difficult hikes on other islands, despite some lava to climb over. Just a 15 min bus ride from the hilton, participants will receive a. The unique profile of diamond head leahi sits prominently near the eastern edge of waikikis coastline. It doesnt take long before the day heats up and makes the hike even more strenuous. Whether you are in shape or not, give this hike a try. Just beyond the urban appeal of honolulu, with its cosmopolitan chic and luxury, sits majestic diamond head, the most famous volcanic crater in the whole world. Join us for a sunrise hike up diamond head and snap some stunning photos. The sun beating down and the lack of shade can make this hike extremely hot midday.
The extinct crater and lookout point at the peak of it is a popular hiking destination for many. Neighbor news central regional high school jrotc hawaii trip. From the trailhead to the summit of diamond head crater, it is 0. The hawaiian name for diamond head is leahi, and i think its probably one of the most famous sites in hawaii, especially if you are standing on waikiki beach. The dlnr division of state parks doesnt have digital copies of the posters, so i took pictures of them and created pdf files from the photos. This tour is ideal for world war ii history buffs and anyone who wants to see some of. Serving as a staple feature of oahu, diamond head was formed over. Basically a zig zag pattern up the crater, semisteep, tons of stairs. By the mid 70s parts of the crater were available for public use.
The short but steep trail to diamond heads 760foot summit gives a 360 degree view of oahu from above. Hike to diamond head crateroahus iconic volcanic cone. The diamond head hike every vacation should come with a little adventure and on the island of oahu, tackling those thrills can be as easy as booking this diamond head hike. Accompanying you on your hike up the 762high crater will be an official audio tour that dives deep into what makes up the crater. This is a popular spot to grab some food items to go. Honolulu fire department personnel have been called out 59 times to the top rescue location, diamond head crater, during the past year. Book your tickets online for diamond head state monument, honolulu. Theres also an audio tour that you could pay for at the. The waters are fifty shades of blue and at a perfect location to swim and. The diamond head hike is along a volcanic trail ascending to a 761foot peak beginning inside the historic landmark.
Located on the southeast coast of oahu, diamond head has long been a defining feature among locals and visitors alike, featured in many tv shows and movies such as lost, hawaii five0, and many more. Cromwells is located on the south shore in honolulu. Upon arriving at diamond head state park, begin the exciting ascent to the top of the 760foot 228meter summit of diamond head crater. If you enjoy hiking, then the diamond head hike is definitely a must on your visit to oahu. Its is an easy but steep hike that takes an hour to an hour and a half.
The name means brow of the tuna and signifies diamond heads resemblance to just that. The walk is a glimpse into the geological and military. Known as leahi brow of the tuna in hawaiian, the crater was named diamond head by 19th century british sailors who thought they discovered diamonds on the craters slopes. Division of state parks diamond head state monument. There are also benches to sit on if you want a break. The park facilities on the crater floor of diamond head are fully accessible to those with disabilities. Parking is limited so we took an uber there and back. Diamond head appears on an 80cent air mail stamp issued in 1952 to pay for shipping orchids to the mainland of the u.
Diamond head crater hikewhat to expect on your journey. The views that you get at the top are completely worth the trip. The trail up, for the most part, is not too difficult. Diamond head is now a popular hiking destination for folks looking for an easy hike and breathtaking views from the summit, stretching from. When you get off the bus, walk from the bus stop to the entrance of the tunnel that passes through the side of the crater. Diamond head collection pacific historic parks bookstore. By the late 1700s westerners had visited the crater and made the hike to the top.
Diamond head crater hike, leahi summit trail honolulu. Diamond head trail is one of the most rewarding oahu hikes, offering amazing. Its a switchback trail with the mountain on one side and a railing on the other. All stop at the entrance to the diamond head crater. The diamond head crater hike is a mustdo if youre visiting oahu. Risky hiking on the rise in hawaii occupational health. Then, experience stunning 360degree views at the top. Diamond head offers stunning views of the pacific ocean and honolulu that you can hike to via a trail that takes you to the edge of the 300,000year old crater. Diamond head state monument honolulu all you need to. The climb to the top of diamond head was not a hardcore hike and there were plenty of kids, older people and outofshape folks who made the trek to the top. Going early in the morning helps avoid heat and the large crowds. Once at the top there are beautiful views of waikiki beach, the city of honolulu, diamond head crater and the surrounding valleys. You exit out of the fire control station via this bunker. Diamond head crater top rated attractions, oahu tours.
Diamond head crater was created 300,000 years ago when a massive volcanic blast along the base of the koolau mountains rocked the island. It is a manmade stone wall along the diamond head crater in oahu. Guide to hiking diamond head state monument on oahu. Diamond head state monument honolulu 2020 all you need. Tips for hiking the diamond head crater in hawaii dont. Want to hike one of hawaiis most visited and historical landmarks. The hike to diamond head leads to the very edge of the craters rim, offering unrivaled views of the islands volcanic coastlines.
Diamond head crater honolulu 2020 all you need to know. Suntan hello kitty hiking diamond head plush keychain. Book your tickets online for diamond head crater, honolulu. The diamond head visitor center is a partnership between the state park division and pacific historic parks. My wife doesnt hike at all and had no problem with the trail. Diamond head crater is one of the most iconic landmarks in hawaii and can be seen as part of the skyline from waikiki beach. Womens i hiked diamond head crater active vneck, dark gray. The hiking trail to the summit is not ada accessible, it is very. Completed in 1911, the fire control station at the summit directed artillery fire from batteries in waikiki and fort ruger outside diamond head crater. Diamond head hike panoramic views of honolulu and waikiki beach. How to hike oahus iconic diamond head crater hawaii magazine. Its a short hike to the top and theres nothing else to do inside the crater so dont plan on spending all day there. Hiking the diamond head summit trail in oahu free two roam.
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