Hiking The Diamond Head Crater Trail

South of Waikiki in Diamond Head State Monument on Oahu, the Diamond Head Crater Trail is a 1.6 mile round trip route with 560 feet of climbing. The Diamond Head Crater Trail winds up the inside of an extinct volcanic crater to the summit. You'll need to pass through a 225 foot tunnel on the way to the top. From the summit, you'll be treated to views of the Waianae Mountains and the Koko Head Crater.

Starting in May 2022, all out-of-state visitors must make a reservation to enter the Diamond Head State Monument no more than 14 days in advance. There is a small reservation fee required. The main parking area is located off Diamond Head Road between Makapu'u Avenue and 18th Avenue on the southeast side of Honolulu.

PRO TIP: Make sure to verify status before heading up. Do not cross any gates, barricades or fences for which there may be tickets and penalties.

Overall, Diamond Head Crater Trail is the 27th most popular hiking trail of all 38 hikes in Hawaii. Several of the better hiking trails are nearby Diamond Head Crater Trail including Ka ena Point State Park, Kahana Valley State Park, Haiku Trail, Mariners Ridge Trail - Kaluanui Ridge Trail and Pali (Maunawili) Trail.