Perhaps the most popular hike in all of Oahu is the Diamond Head Summit Trail. This one-of-a-kind hike takes you from the inside of the volcanic crater to the old World War II military bunkers at the summit.
Hiking The Diamond Head Summit Trail (Oahu, Hawaii)
The Diamond Head Summit Trail is located at the Diamond Head State Monument and is open everyday from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
AllTrails lists the trail as a 1.5 mile round-trip hike. The Diamond Head State Monument website describes the trail as “steep and strenuous” with a 560 foot gain.
I would say this trail is easy to moderate; it’s a relatively short hike on an almost completely paved or well-worn trail. It is kid- and elderly-friendly as well.
What makes it challenging is its exposure to the sun and the heat that can be downright brutal inside some of the bunker infrastructure. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable hike.
Getting There, Parking, And Entrance
The entrance to Diamond Head crater is about 15 minutes away by car from the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort in Waikiki.
There is public transportation that takes you directly here from Waikiki which is a good option because parking can be somewhat of a major pain.
When you arrive at Diamond Head State Monument, you’ll make your way inside of the crater by way of the tunnel below.
There is a walking path to the left of the road that is safe for pedestrians.
Once inside the crater, you’ll have to pay at the kiosk. This place is very popular – so if you do arrive after about 9:00 am, there is a good chance the parking lot may be full and you may be turned away.
If this happens, don’t panic, you can head back outside of the crater and find some additional parking in the various lots below. Yes, you will have to walk back up to the crater, but the entrance fee will only be $1 if you enter on foot.
Once inside the entrance, you’ll find a gift shop, visitor center, various food stands, and water stations.
Starting The Hike
At the trailhead, you’ll find the panels below. One gives you information on the hike, the second – map and bunker information on the crater, and the last, information on the military installation.
Section 1: The Climb To The First Lookout
The hike starts off slow and easy as you follow the sidewalk and crowds of people to initial ascent.
There is a audio-guide available for this hike at the visitor center
This bench is the perfect spot for taking your first “breather” (if necessary)
The trail zig-zags along some mild switchbacks
Continuing the ascent inside of the crater
You’ll arrive at your first viewpoint, where you’ll get a good view inside of the crater and see Koko-head crater in the background.
Panoramic shot
Section 2: The Climb To The Military Bunkers
Continuing on, the climb toward the bunker will get a little steeper before making it to the first tunnel.
At the end of the tunnel, you’ll encounter the double arrow below where have a decision to make: You can take the loop by going left and climbing clockwise to the summit, or you can go right and take the loop counterclockwise by climbing the long staircase to the bunker.
I chose to go right (the counter-clockwise loop).
The long staircase to the bunker tunnel
At the end of this tunnel, there will be a a room on the right that leads to another staircase.
This staircase will lead you to the top of the bunker
Views from inside the bunker
You’ll have to crawl out the the bunker to continue on to the summit
Section 3: The Climb To The Crater Summit
The final section is the short hike to the summit. After leaving the bunker, continue on the counter-clockwise loop.
The summit is in sight
At last! The summit.
Here you can take in awesome views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the surrounding area in Oahu.
Proof you made it to the top
Beautiful views looking back toward Honolulu and Waikiki
Now, the easy part. Continue the loop back down the crater to the parking lot.
Final Thoughts: Hiking The Diamond Head Summit Trail (Oahu, Hawaii)
Although it may not be the most beautiful hike in Hawaii, The Diamond Head Summit Trail is a quintessential Hawaiian experience on Oahu. You’ll get to experience the inside of a lava crater and experience some American military history from World War II.
Diamond Head State Monument is likely on most “Top 10 Things to do in Oahu” lists, and for good reason. Did I mention this hike was popular?
It will likely take you about 2-3 hours at Diamond Head. The hike is relatively easy and good for all levels of hikers. I’m not sure I would do this hike again (because there are so many more Hawaiian hikes to explore like the Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail), but I’m glad I didn’t miss this experience. Another awesome thing to do on Oahu!
Cheers!
