One of the most photogenic spots in Waikiki Beach is Diamond Head. The spot is most photogenic when the sun drums up the energy to rise above the dormant volcano and illuminate Waikiki Beach in the morning. The Hawaiian name for this volcano is Le’ahi (meaning 'brow' or 'back'), because the summit resembles the forehead of an ahi fish. While staying at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Hotel, we took the hotel’s complimentary Waikiki Connection Trolley from the base of Diamond Head to hike to the top. It’s a good morning activity before the sun heats up the two-mile hike inside the volcanic crater. Afterwards, a swim at one of the nearby beaches makes for an ideal afternoon.
In the late 1700s, Western explorers and traders believed the calcite crystals on the slope of the craters were diamonds. Soon, the name 'Diamond Head' became the common name of this area. Walking along both the paved and dirt trail, a sign states it was built in 1908 as part of the U.S. Army Coastal Artillery defense system. Historically, this coastal defense area was built to defend the island of Oahu from attack, however no artillery was ever fired during a war.
For a $1 admission fee, visitors and locals (wear tennis or hiking shoes to maneuver the many rocks, steep inclines, stairs and switchbacks) can walk from an elevation of 200 feet to 761 feet.
Diamond Head is a semi-arid climate, with many of the plants and animals living there today introduced in the 1800s. The Kiawe (in the mesquite family) grows in the shallow soil. Near the trees are birds that live in the area, including cardinals, morning doves and sparrows. A good place to stop and catch your breath along the trail is at the concrete landing with a rusted winch and cable. This mechanism used to lift materials from the crater floor, and offers incredible eastern views of the area.
Almost at the top of Diamond Head is a spiraled, three-level stairway. Once at the top, be sure to duck, because the ceiling is quite low. The end result is worth all the exercise. With sweeping coastal views of the seven beaches along Waikiki and the Diamond Head lighthouse, the views of beautiful reefs along the southeastern shore towards Koko Head are awe inspiring.
Walking back down can be slippery at times, so take your time. Be sure to wear a hat, sunscreen and bring at least one bottle of water. The area opens at 6 AM for sunrise hikes and the last time to start a hike is at 4:30 PM. At the bottom is a concession truck with water, juice, shaved ice and smoothies. If you hike in on a Saturday morning, catch the trolley or walk to the KCC Farmers Market at the Community College. It’s open from 7:30 to 11 AM., serving local farm-fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers and street food. There is a trolley stop for hikers to board and visit 20 different attractions from Diamond Head to Honolulu. It's an open-air tour of paradise.
