I’m a mountains and desert kind of gal, but there’s something alluring about tropical islands. Warm and clear water, my favorite fruits, and accessibility are the first things that come to mind. You could take a Lyft to hike almost any part of Oahu if you wanted to. Diamond Head is one of those hikes.
The Diamond Head hike is located just outside the city of Honolulu at Diamond Head State Monument. Pay $5 to get in by car, or park outside and walk in for $1 per person.
Before you start, stop by the Visitor Center and grab a trash bag. Collectors of garbage can get a certificate stating you hiked Diamond Head with your name on it, a $2.50 value. The trail is fairly clean. However, the summit had bunch of trash lurking about.
The Diamond Head trail takes you to the edge of a 300,000 year old crater. Because of this, it’s very popular. Don’t be fooled by the crowds, though. This hike is steep and ascends straight uphill. Make sure you have sturdy footwear and plenty of water.
This trail is very well signed. You have to try very hard to get lost. Don’t forget to stop and take in every vista.
After the second vista point and tunnel, the trail splits. Stay to the left to meander your way up to the summit. Take the right path for a thigh burning ascent up the fire control station.
Either way, you’ll end up at the top with panoramic views of Honolulu, the ocean and Diamond Head crater. Those views are gorgeous.
When you’re ready, take the untraveled path down, especially if you skipped the spiral stairs in the first place. Don’t miss the spiral staircase! They are so cool.
At the bottom, don’t forget to collect your certificate for picking up all that garbage!
After hiking Diamond Head, go to the Koko Head Cafe for brunch. Do not let the line deter you. (Tip: order your food to go and head to the beach.) I would fly back to Hawaii just to eat here. The breakfast congee bowl is bomb. Inquire about the dumplings of the day. Grab a yuzu muffin to go.
Gear for hiking Diamond Head
Chaco Z/cloud sandals, REI wide mouth nalgene, Topo Designs Mountain Pack, Sony RX100 point and shoot camera
