Highlights of Diamond Head
Volcanic Crater and Summit Views
From the summit, you can look out over Waikiki, with high-rise hotels lining the coast, and the blue ocean stretching beyond it. Because the city buildings and shoreline appear in close succession, it is clear how Diamond Head shapes the landscape on Waikiki’s eastern side.
To the east, Diamond Head’s outer volcanic ridge stretches along the landscape, with its slopes appearing to merge with the coastline. The mountain is a vast crater-like formation with a depression at its center, and the photo also shows the contrast between the dry, undulating slopes and the color of the sea. Hanauma Bay lies in the direction of the view, offering a broad look across southeastern Oahu.
Diamond Head is a state monument where you can experience volcanic terrain and coastal scenery together in a location close to Waikiki. From the summit, the city, ocean, and volcanic ridge to the east come together as one landscape, making it one of Oahu’s signature viewpoints.
Diamond Head Essentials
The information below was checked against official sources on October 19, 2026. Please also check the latest information on the official website when planning your trip.
- 🔗 Official website
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You can check opening hours, make admission reservations, view prices, and review visitor guidelines.
Diamond Head State MonumentVisit Hawaii's Iconic National Landmarkdlnr.hawaii.gov - 📍 Address
- Diamond Head Road, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States
- 🕒 Hours
- 6:00〜18:00 (last reservation slot: 16:00; last entry: 16:30)
- 🚫 Closed days
- The park is closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
- 💶 Prices
- Admission and parking fees for visitors who live outside the state are as follows.
- On foot: 1 person 5 US dollars
- Standard vehicle: 1 vehicle 10 US dollars
Children aged 3 or younger enter free of charge. Hawaii residents receive free admission and free parking for standard vehicles by presenting a valid Hawaii ID or driver's license.⚠️ Prices, reservation slots, and entry procedures may change depending on the visit date and updates to the official information.
- ⏱️ Recommended duration
- The hike generally takes 1.5–2 hours.⚠️ The duration may vary depending on crowds, entry queues, heat, walking speed on slopes and stairs, and time spent at the summit.
Getting to Diamond Head
The entrance is on Diamond Head Road in Honolulu, between Makapu’u Avenue and 18th Avenue. Continue into the park from the entrance, and you will find the trailhead next to the parking lot. The route to the summit includes stairs and uphill sections, so bring something to drink and wear comfortable walking shoes. Entry reservations are required for non-Hawaii residents.
For attractions, transport and suggested itineraries, see “Oahu: A guide to attractions, food, transportation, and a sample itinerary”.
