Hawaii’s most popular hike is taken by more than 1.3 million people annually and is about 40 minutes from the Ko Olina Beach Villas. When you reach the top, you take in a sublime 360-degree view of Oahu. The postcard view of the shoreline of southeastern Oʻahu from Koko Head to Wai’anae is stunning, and during winter, may include passing humpback whales.
From the parking lot on the crater floor, the trail to the summit is 0.8 mile one way and climbs 560 feet in elevation. There is a paved concrete walkway for a distance of 0.2 miles at the start of the hike, but the trail becomes uneven and steep, requiring caution and appropriate footwear. Portions of the trail involve steep stairways – take your time. Another portion of the trail goes through a long, narrow tunnel which is lighted.
The trailhead is adjacent to the parking lot within Diamond Head State Monument. The entrance is off Diamond Head Road between Makapu’u Avenue and 18th Avenue, Honolulu. Entry fee of $5 per vehicle.
