Diamond Head - Oahu, Hawaii

Aloha!


When you think of the Hawaiian Islands you probably imagine beautiful beaches, palm trees, exotic hula dancers, and surfing the waves all day long. If you did think of these things, you are absolutely right. Hawaii has many amenities and wonders alike to offer. I was very fortunate enough to return to Hawaii for a second time last August with my family. During our week long stay we ventured around the island of Oahu. One of our many adventures was to Diamond Head State National Monument.


Diamond Head is a crater that was created by a volcano some 300,000 years ago. The monument encompasses over 475 acres. From the base of the crater to the peak is a 560 feet ascension, which includes a 0.8 mile hiking trail.*

Picture from the base of Diamond Head. From here your 0.8 mile hike up to the summit begins.

The beginning of the trail is relatively flat. As you can see there is plenty of foliage along the trail. Although this isn't your typical walk in the park trail, it still is a easy start to your climb.

This was taken about halfway up Diamond Head. At the bottom of the picture you can see the trail that leads up to where this photo was taken.


As the trail begins to wind its way around Diamond Head it becomes more difficult to climb. It was not uncommon to come across baseball size rocks, split ground, and slippery steps at this point. Despite these small obstacles, the desire to reach the summit was still on the front your mind.

View of Diamond Head crater from the summit.

View of Waikiki (foreground) and Honolulu (background) from the summit of Diamond Head.

At the end of your hike is where your payoff is. A grand view of the crater, the surrounding villages, and a spectacular view of both Waikiki and Honolulu. 

I cannot fully put into words the feeling of accomplishment and surreality that surround you once you reach the summit. All I can say is that once you reach the top, you'll never want to leave.

*Further information about Diamond Head can be found here at http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/oahu/index.cfm?park_id=15