One of Hawaii’s best will soon require reservations. Get the latest, then move Diamond Head to the top of things to do in Honolulu.
24 thoughts on “Diamond Head Hike | Advance Reservations Required | Things To Do In Honolulu”
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The last time I did this hike, in 2018, the trail was packed with busloads of selfie-stick-wielding tourists. I concur that it’s best to go early or late, but more to avoid the crowds than the sun.
My first trip, had never been to Hawaii before, and certainly did not pack appropriate footwear. I hiked Diamond Head in flip flops. I wasn’t sure I would make it once we hit the dirt/rock paths. But I did!!! What a sense of accomplishment I felt!! Hot and sweaty reaching the top, but proud. But seriously, it’s really only 99 steps??
Aloha! My husband and I hiked Diamond head four years ago from our hotel at Waikiki beach early in the morning! It was beautiful. We brought water bottles and were both in our middle 60’s! The views were amazing! During our last stay in 2020 in January we didn’t do Diamond head but hiked up to the lighthouse. Everyday we walked at least five miles! Love the views and Waikiki area and beach. Our last trip was for two weeks over Christmas hope someday to return. Mahola!
I DO remember the old Diamond Head hike, I still have a t-shirt from one of the vendors that lined the trail near the car park. The guide book I had at the time had me well prepared for the hike, which wasn’t as bad as I imagined it would be. I did take a flashlight though, the tunnel was long and quite dark (not so many people walking it back then). Well worth the effort though, the views from the top were/are stupendous.
Will be coming to Waikiki for two weeks starting mid-November. I would love to get some current restaurant recommendations, especially casual and not too expensive for lunch and/or dinner,
Martin, check out Barefoot Beach Cafe @ Queen’s Surf Beach. Food is good, affordable and yummy, and the location is amazing! They also have live music every night or so.
Martin, check out Side Street Inn on Kapahulu. About a mile from kalakaua. Tons of local food, so delicious! We also go to Roy’s behind Sheraton Waikiki and Ruth Chris, also behind Sheraton. Going to try Ed Kenney’s Kaimuki restaurant this next trip. Also the hamburger joint on Kaimuki (near Chaminade) is terrific. I eat my once a year hamburger there! My husband loves the chili at Zippys on Kapahulu. Even McDonalds has a good rice and egg breakfast since Hawaii people love rice!
You mean we re supposed to do something other than eat?! Honolulu has the BEST restaurants!
Thanks for the article!
Hi Lani.
True that. Thank you.
Aloha.
Aloha! I may be the rare bird but I’ve done the hike in flip flops. It works for me. And yes, the backs of my legs get s workout! 🌺
Dear Tea, when I come to Oahu next year the Diamond Head hike is on my itinerary! !♡♡
We do remember the “old” hike and it was somewhat vigorous, regardless of the time of day. Always amazed that even then on the narrow, steep dirt path there were women Japanese tourists in heels and short skirts as well as locals and tourists in flippers.
Great hike and worth the effort. As noted, bring water and skip the midday sun.
Our friends were there years ago and we are all going in Sept. They told us of the hike that is dark and you need flash lights is this still the case? My wife is not to keen on dark caves but would hike anything outside. Thanks
Hi Rod.
You don’t need flashlights.
Aloha.
Dear Michael, I will be coming to Oahu next year & I can’t wait!! The Diamond Head hike is on my itinerary. I will be going early in the morning to avoid the sun.
This hike is especially beautiful first thing in the morning. The park opens at 6:00 am and for most of the fall, winter, and spring that gets you there for sunrise.
Dear Irma, I’m coming to Oahu next year & I can’t wait!!! I have the Diamond Head hike on my itinerary & I will be going early to avoid the sun.
Great hike! Great advice! I’ve noticed young females often ignore the advice about sensible shoes. Flip flops really aren’t sturdy enough.
If you want a good and fruitful hike, try the trek down the rocks to “Eternity Beach” (actually Halona Cove). It’s a locals place for good body surfing. You drive to The Blowhole lookout on Kalanianaole Hwy.(72) past Hanauma Bay and around the big curve. From the lookout parking lot look down to the right and watch how the locals walk down the rock “stairway” to learn the descent. Great place to spend the day but leave before dark and learn how to get out as well.