Diamond Head Lookout

We visited Oahu recently and we knew we had to visit Diamond Head. We got our reservations as soon as the date opened up because there is limited availability and they won't let you in without a reservation.Once there, we headed straight up on the hike, not really knowing what to expect. This is a pretty challenging trek, you start uphill and keep on going until you reach the summit. The trail is a combination of paved, rock, and some stairs mixed in for good measure. Along the way there are a few spots to stop and catch your breath and take pictures.At the top, there is a platform to climb onto and admire the views in all directions. The scenery really is breathtaking, with views all around of the island, Honolulu, the ocean, etc. We stayed at the top for around 20-30 minutes just taking it all in.We like hikes where there is a good payoff at the end, and Diamond Head delivers on that point. Well worth the effort to get to the top, highly recommended.

Come here for a good view of Honolulu and the islands. Diamond Head Lookout is the top of this famous landmark. It takes awhile to get up but is worth the hike to see far out. About the best place to stop for a rest and look around. The hike up here includes stairs and trails but it's not too bad to be honest. Best to get a ride to the entrance because you'll already be doing a lot of walking up here. It's located at the very top of the crater for the lookout. The views are of course best when the sky is clear so plan ahead for that. For those who are already at the crater, might as well go up a few more feet. It's located 760 feet at the peak. Even see a few of the other islands when the sky is clear. These include the islands of Lāna'i and Moloka'i. Give yourself enough time to get up here. It's about an hour for most people. There's bathrooms and facilities at the base so use these before going to the top.

Take your vitamins, a sturdy pair of runners, sunscreen and water for this vigorous short hike-- not for the unfit or those who find steep stairs or confined spaces a problem.State Park entrance is fairly walkable from major Waikiki hotels, we set off from in front of the Moana Surfrider around 10am. It took about 40 minutes to arrive at the main gate, via local roads and pathways.You are charged admission of $5 for visitors per person. You need to book in advance, but can book once you arrive if necessary using your mobile device, however, they allow only a fixed number of bookings so you might not secure a spot.There is a rest stop area with vending machines selling water and pop that accept credit cards plus clean restrooms. The trail begins at the rest area and slowly progresses in elevation to an uneven, slightly treacherous rock path on average 2.5-3 feet wide with a handrail on 1 side only. I wouldn't do this hike if it's raining, way too slippery.There are a lot of people going up and down, let's say a lot of heavy breathing in both directions. The last 25% is mostly steep steps and a tunnel. Just before there is an observation plateau where you'll see a pretty good view of Hawaii Kai. The final ascent is challenging, if you are not fit maybe don't do the last part beginning at the tunnel.Once up top, there is a bunker and observation platform.You should wear proper footwear because it's super easy to twist your ankle due to poor path quality.The trip is worth your time if you have a free 2-3 hours. We took Uber back to our hotel, cost was $20.

The views when you get to the top are incredible. If you like a challenge you must do this. Make reservations early and plan on hiking at least 2 hours.

A must visit in Oahu.I walked here and back from Waikiki Beach, 7 miles or so on top of the 2 mile hike. It was a moderate hike with moderate elevation. But most people should be able to do it. The view on top is spectacular, worth the less than 1 mile hike up. You can see Waikiki Beach, the lighthouse, the diff volcanos in the distance once you get to the top. I also really enjoyed hiking among the mountain views. Just breathtaking! It gets very hot and sweaty on the hike, so bring a water bottle to fill up at the visitor center just before the hike begins. Walking through the canals before the trail was pretty cool too, as well as the narrow dark tunnel near the end of the hike.

You get really great views of Waikiki once you reach the top of Diamond Head. Very much worth the reward. We made it to the top around 6:50 AM and the sky was just lovely. You could see other small islands from afar. Definitely worth the trek up, just make sure you get reservations and get in early!

Once you've finally made it to the top of the outlook you'll be treated to beautiful views of the beach/ocean and even the view of the crater below. Once you're inside the park the hike is just under 2 miles out and back with a little over 500 feet in elevation gain. Most of the trail is a smooth path, a few of the areas going through some caves you will be going up stairs. Depending on your abilities walking uphill getting to the top of the outlook can take around 30 mi items to an hour.Before you visit make sure you check out the Diamond Head Monument website for parking into and hiking availability.

Loved loved loved this experience! Although I'm one worn out and sore mama right now!! But it was sooooo worth it. Warning - you are required to have a reservation to visit now!! We were not aware of this until we arrived and was turned away. Went on the website and found entry time for same day of 4-4:30 for the 5 of us. They have 2 options when you book online: (1) entry only and (2) parking and entry. Entrance is $5/pp and parking is $10. Keep in mind you can visit with the entry only ticket, you just have to find parking before entering the tunnel. My recommendation would be to purchase the parking and entry if available. Just makes it a bit easier after being exhausted from the hike to make it to your car. Tips: (1) Come in the morning or the last slot of 4-4:30. Why you ask!? Well to have a breeze and not be in the scorching heat of the day. Our time of 4-4:30pm was nice because we had a nice breeze and the sun wasn't so bright. (2) Pack water! Be prepared that this is a 60-90 minute hike round trip! Prepare because there are no water fountains once you begin your hiking. (3) Go potty before you start your hike. No places to go on the hike. (4) You don't have to climb the 2nd set of yellow stairs. When given the option for left or right - GO LEFT! Easier than the steep flight of stairs to the right. (5) Stop and take it all in!! The sights are just pure beauty! God's amazing creation you can see! Just breathtaking views. We had a beautiful rainbow that appeared once we got over halfway up the hike and stayed with us the entire time! I like to think it was my dad that I lost in September telling me it's ok and to keep going! Not gonna lie that you need to be prepared that this is not and easy hike. Out of my party of 5, only myself and my daughter made it the whole way and to the top. And that was with some stops to rest. But the pain is so worth it once you get to the top and experience the beauty!i

Hell of a hike for a hell of a view. You really have to mentally push yourself for the "viewable" prize. It's absolutely stunning & I wish there was more of this, where we live! Non - Hawaii residents - make sure you make reservation(s) & pay prior to entry. We didn't. So that slowed us down by 20 mins. Service was terrible, so it slowed down the process, even more. Go thru the tunnel for parking only IF you've made reservations. Otherwise, they'll send you out to park in the small lot, prior to tunnel entrance. Multiple stops on the way for diff scenery. Overall, it was great! We loved it!

Cool place to hike to the top. the view is beautiful with city and Waikiki beach . I recommend going on the morning time or after 3 pm. It is a family friendly hike. If u are visiting the island then u need to make reservations on their website but locals are good to go without reservation. They charge to park the car and entrance fee... enjoy and stay active