Diamond Head Hike: Reservations, Trail Tips and Sunrise

Diamond Head (Lēʻahi) is Oʻahu’s most recognizable landmark, and the trail to its summit is short but rewarding: a steady climb inside the crater to sweeping views over Waikīkī and Honolulu. Here’s what to know before you go.

Reservations and hours

• Non-residents need a reservation for entry, and for parking if driving. Reservations open up to 30 days in advance.
• The park opens at 6 a.m.; the last entry is mid-afternoon. It’s closed Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Can you see sunrise?

Only sometimes. The first entry slot is 6 a.m., so a summit sunrise is realistic only in the months when the sun rises later — roughly late fall through winter. The rest of the year, the earliest slot still means cooler temperatures and softer light.

The trail

The route is about 1.6 miles round trip with a steady climb, switchbacks, stairways and a short lit tunnel before the summit lookout and old military bunkers. The upper sections are narrow and busy, and there’s little shade.

Getting there

From Waikīkī it’s an easy drive, rideshare or bus ride. Walking from Waikīkī is possible but adds a long uphill road walk before the trail even starts.

While you’re nearby

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