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Diamond Head State Monument encompasses Diamond Head, a a large volcanic tuff cone that dominates most photographs of Waikiki. It is located on the eastern edge of Oahu, and the entrance can be a little tricky to find (it is off Diamond Head Road between Makapu’u Avenue and 18th Avenue east of Waikiki). The best time to visit the monument is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. During midday, the parking lots at the monument often fill up completely, and you may find yourself turned away at the gate during these peak times. Once you succeed in getting a parking space (or arrive via bus), you will discover a very different Hawaiian environment. The interior of Diamond Head is hot and quite dry and filled with Kiawe trees, a relative of the mesquite tree. Be sure that you bring plenty of water with you for the hike to the top, which is steep in places and can take from one to several hours, depending on how fast you hike. The trail leads you up to the top of the rim of Diamond Head, where you will get an excellent view of Oahu, including Waikiki, Honolulu, Koko Crater, and the back side of Hanauma Bay. On this site, a military lookout bunker was used to scan the skies for the Japanese during World War II. A visit to Diamond Head is rewarding in terms of history, nature, and a great views of Waikiki. Bring lots of water and sunscreen, wear comfortable walking shoes, and go early, but don't miss this experience.

Click the first photo in the box to the right to begin a tour of the monument.