Diamond Head Tours
6 Reviews
Arguably Hawaii's most well-known sight, Diamond Head Crater is more than just a famous Waikiki backdrop but also an entire attraction unto itself, featuring one of Oahu's best hikes for a panoramic view. From atop the 760-foot (231-meter) summit, visitors can gaze out from Koko Head Crater to the Honolulu skyline and down on Waikiki Beach, where surfers, paddlers, sailboats, and canoes all splash through the tropical waters.
The Basics
The Diamond Head trail is 1.6 miles (2.6 kilometers) round-trip, gaining over 550 feet (168 meters) from the trailhead to the summit and affording amazing views of the island and the Pacific Ocean. Unless you're trying to be the first one up to the Diamond Head summit in the morning, enjoy the hike at a steady pace and take in the views on the way—travelers usually allot one to two hours for the Diamond Head crater hike. This crater adventure is often included on Oahu city tours or circle island tours that take in a number of Hawaiian landmarks and historic sites such as Manoa Falls, Pearl Harbor, and the North Shore. Consider taking a guided Diamond Head tour to learn the history and local stories surrounding the popular crater.
The Basics
The Diamond Head trail is 1.6 miles (2.6 kilometers) round-trip, gaining over 550 feet (168 meters) from the trailhead to the summit and affording amazing views of the island and the Pacific Ocean. Unless you're trying to be the first one up to the Diamond Head summit in the morning, enjoy the hike at a steady pace and take in the views on the way—travelers usually allot one to two hours for the Diamond Head crater hike. This crater adventure is often included on Oahu city tours or circle island tours that take in a number of Hawaiian landmarks and historic sites such as Manoa Falls, Pearl Harbor, and the North Shore. Consider taking a guided Diamond Head tour to learn the history and local stories surrounding the popular crater.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
The best way to reach Diamond Head Crater hiking trail is by foot, bike, guided tour, car, or the local bus. There is limited parking if you choose to drive; many travelers opt to take The Bus to the Diamond Head State Monument bus stop.
When to Get There
Diamond Head State Monument opens at 6am and closes at 6pm daily, with last entry at 4:30pm. Considering over 2,000 people hike up the famous volcanic crater each day, you'll never have the trail completely to yourself, unless you start your day with a race to the top. Though crowds are heavy almost every day, Tuesdays tend to be especially heavy since one of Oahu's most popular sights—Hanauma Bay—is closed. The best time to beat the heat is early in the morning, and there's usually a line in front of the gate for the 6am opening. Diamond Head tours also arrive pretty early, so hiking late in the day may sometimes help you beat the crowds. If you plan to hike up Diamond Head in winter, keep an eye out for humpback whales that leap from the waters offshore.
Diamond Head History
In Hawaiian, the mountain is known as ‘Leahi’—the name Diamond Head comes from British sailors who found calcite crystals embedded in the mountain and falsely claimed they were diamonds.
- An admission fee of $5 per car or $1 per pedestrian is required.
- Hiking up Diamond Head involves numerous steep stairs and isn’t accessible for travelers in wheelchairs. The trail also includes a 225-foot (68-meter) tunnel that is well lit but can feel a bit tight.
- Restrooms and water are located at the trailhead, but there are no facilities on the trail.
- Be sure to wear proper walking shoes.
- On tours of the crater with a tour guide, hotel transport is often included and reduces the need to find parking.
How to Get There
The best way to reach Diamond Head Crater hiking trail is by foot, bike, guided tour, car, or the local bus. There is limited parking if you choose to drive; many travelers opt to take The Bus to the Diamond Head State Monument bus stop.
When to Get There
Diamond Head State Monument opens at 6am and closes at 6pm daily, with last entry at 4:30pm. Considering over 2,000 people hike up the famous volcanic crater each day, you'll never have the trail completely to yourself, unless you start your day with a race to the top. Though crowds are heavy almost every day, Tuesdays tend to be especially heavy since one of Oahu's most popular sights—Hanauma Bay—is closed. The best time to beat the heat is early in the morning, and there's usually a line in front of the gate for the 6am opening. Diamond Head tours also arrive pretty early, so hiking late in the day may sometimes help you beat the crowds. If you plan to hike up Diamond Head in winter, keep an eye out for humpback whales that leap from the waters offshore.
Diamond Head History
In Hawaiian, the mountain is known as ‘Leahi’—the name Diamond Head comes from British sailors who found calcite crystals embedded in the mountain and falsely claimed they were diamonds.
Address: Diamond Head Road, Waikiki, Hawaii 96816, USA
88 Tours and Activities to Experience Diamond Head
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Turtle Canyon Catamaran Snorkel Cruise
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Snorkel with green sea turtles in Oahu's Turtle Canyon on this 2- to 3-hour tour departing from Waikiki. Board a power catamaran and sail along the shore of Oahu towards the island's best place to spot the resident turtles. Turtle sightings are guaranteed; if a turtle is not sighted, you will be given a free second cruise. After snorkeling, enjoy lunch (if option selected ) and two provided drinks while you keep your eyes peeled for passing marine life like dolphins and migrating whales. Snorkel equipment and round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels is included.
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Isle Sights Unseen 45 Minute Oahu Helicopter Tour with Doors Off or On
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Make your Oahu visit even more magical with this 45-minute scenic helicopter ride. Experience the island like you’ve never seen it before, flying above island landmarks including Sacred Falls, Diamond Head, Maunalua Bay, the Ko'olau Mountains, Ka'a'awa Valley, Pearl Harbor, and more. Trips include round-trip hotel and a choice of ‘doors on’ or ‘doors off’ flights.
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Diamond Head Bike to Hike and Local Lunch
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Learn about Hawaiian history and experience the beauty of Oahu on a half-day bike tour from Waikiki. Ride to Diamond Head Crater, hike to the top of the dormant volcano, get great photo ops, and have lunch at the base of Diamond Head. You'll see local landmarks like Doris Duke's mansion, hidden beaches, panoramic ocean vistas, and more. Includes bike rental, helmet, lunch, water/sports drink, and Hawaiian snacks.
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$129.00
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Ultimate Circle Island Adventure with Waimea Waterfall
516
Take the ultimate Circle Island adventure on this guided, full-day, small-group tour from Honolulu. Stop at Diamond Head, the world-famous icon of Hawaii; beautiful Hanauma Bay, a pristine marine ecosystem; Halona Cove Beach, famous for its appearance in the 1953 movie ‘From Here to Eternity’ and much more. Also, check out one of the most beautiful panoramic views in the world, the breathtaking Pali Lookout and the historic Waimea Valley, featuring a botanical garden and waterfall. Lunch and a Honolulu hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
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Royal Crown of Oahu - 60 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On
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Explore Hawaii’s island of Oahu by air on this helicopter tour. Fly above the island and many of its most well-known landmarks, such as Diamond Head, Sacred Falls, the Dole Plantation, and Pearl Harbor. On this ride, choose your departure time and whether or not you’d like the helicopter doors on or off.
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Oahu Grand Circle Tour with Snorkeling with the Turtles
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Explore Oahu on this full-day minibus tour with a small group and a local guide. With your small group of 20 people or fewer, make plenty of stops at the island's highlights, including snorkeling with green sea turtles on the North Shore. See the Dole Plantation, the Halona Blowhole, Diamond Head, and Makapu’u Beach during this day-long outing. Round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels is included.
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Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise
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View the Hawaiian sunset from the deck of a luxury catamaran during this 1.5-hour cruise from Oahu. Glide along the coastline from Waikiki towards Diamond Head while enjoying the vibrant colors of the island sunset, appetizers, two alcoholic drinks and unlimited non-alcoholic drinks.
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Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Oahu Circle Island Small Group Tour
187
Experience Oahu’s top sights on a small-group tour. Relax while your guide takes care of driving, and makes sure you don’t miss any key spots. Visit Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole, and Diamond Head Crater, then explore Haleiwa town and try some local flavors for lunch. Get some cultural insights from your guide and finish the day with a great overview of the island.
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Face masks required for guides in public areas
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Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Oahu Circle Island and Snorkeling Tour
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We invite you to join us for a full-day, action-packed tour that will guide you to the finest sights on Oahu, and leave you in total amazement. Featuring 16 Points of Interest, it is our talented tour guides that will show you the best that Oahu has to offer. Diamond Head, Dole Plantation, Secret Beaches, Coffee & Macadamia Farms, Incredible Views & Photo Opportunities, and Swimming and Snorkeling with Turtles are just a few highlights that you will experience with us!
It’s our Tour Guides that will make all the difference in this action-packed day! They will spoil you rotten by telling funny stories, giving their knowledge of Hawaii, singing songs (Kanikapila), and sharing with you the precious culture of Hawaii.This tour will bring you relaxation, excitement, and all the emotions in between.We are ready to show you some major fun and give you the lay of the land. Aloha & E Komo Mai!
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Breathtaking 8-Hour Circle Island Tour from Honolulu
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We at The Pineapple EXP want to make sure you have the best experience here in Hawaii without paying the world known Hawaii high prices. This is why the company was founded; to truly spread aloha. Our personable, informative guides ensure a great time for all ages. With the Pineapple EXP you can bet;
Great Transportation. Great Times.
Mahalo
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Lunch at McGarrett's w/ Cousin Flippa Five-0 TV Tour GUARANTEED ACCESS
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Fans of ‘Hawaii Five-0’ will love this tour of Oahu’s most memorable landmarks. Visit exclusive filming locations that conjure up images and episodes of the hit television show. Enjoy a personalized adventure around the island where the show is currently being filmed. See the Diamond Head lookout and the Hawaii Film and Sound stage, plus tour the McGarrett's House estate and enjoy a sit-down lunch. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included.
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Grand Circle Island Guided Tour
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See the highlights of Oahu in one full day on this comprehensive island tour. Visit natural wonders such as Diamond Head crater, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, the Halona Blowhole, and Sandy Beach. You’ll also explore man-made sites like the Dole pineapple plantation, Haleiwa Historic Town, and North Shore Soap Factory. This is a perfect choice for first-time visitors to Oahu.
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$199.00
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From
$199.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Highlights of Oahu Tour: Circle Island, North Shore, Turtles & Local Food
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Get a comprehensive overview of Oahu's landmarks and highlights on this circle island tour. Enjoy a small-group setting to ensure personal attention from your local guide while seeing over thirty local attractions. See the surf and sand at Waikiki Beach, taste some samples of Dole pineapples, learn about the history of Haleiwa town. Get the insider info about favorite local eateries and see filming locations for various movies and television shows. Round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels is included.
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Aloha Circle Island Tour - Full Day Adventure
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Combine a circle island tour of Oahu with the chance to swim and snorkel on this all-day adventure. With pickup and drop-off in Honolulu, you can make it around the island in a single day and without even renting a car. All transportation and the use of snorkeling gear is provided for you so you can get the most out of your tour. You'll stop at all the must-see Oahu spots and listen to in-depth guided commentary as you travel.
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Private Secret Oahu Circle Island Tour
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Circle the island of Oahu and its many points of interest on this guided adventure. Learn about Hawaiian history and culture while exploring the coastline. Visit sites like Diamond Head, the Pali Lookout, Chinaman’s Hat, and Laie Point. Also, see famous places like Banzai Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. For lunch, try some fresh Hawaiian shrimp from one of the local food trucks (own expense). And if time permits, check out some of the secret spots for viewing sea turtles and monk seals.
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Diamond Head Hiking Narrated Tour
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Diamond Head State Monument is one of Oahu’s largest visitor attractions. Because Diamond Head Visitor Center does not offer guided tours, this audio hiking tour is an absolute must. On this self-guided tour, you’ll easily navigate your own hike to the summit while having a personal park ranger informing you of the sights. You'll also get the official 'I Hiked Diamond Head' certificate as a souvenir.
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Oahu Fireworks Dinner Cruise
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Watch a spectacular fireworks display from the deck of a luxury catamaran during this 2-hour dinner cruise from Oahu. Scheduled every Friday night, this dinner cruise features a sumptuous tapas-style dinner and two drinks. Sail down the coast of Oahu with fantastic views of Diamond Head, the colorful Waikiki sunset and the weekly fireworks display.
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$161.98
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Private Helicopter Charter - Oahu "Magnum Experience" (50 Minute)
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Enjoy VIP luxury on a helicopter tour of Oahu with a maximum of four people. Experience the island from a birds-eye view and get unparalleled views of the azure waters, lush greenery and cascading falls. See the most beautiful natural landmarks with a complete circle island tour starting over the white sands of Waikiki and ending with a flyover of Pearl Harbor. A wonderful way to get your bearings if you’ve just arrived, or a grand finale to your Hawaii vacation.
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Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Diamond Head Sunset Tour
We are the only ones offering Electric Scooter Tours on the Island with a special sunset experience make this unique tour the highlight of your vacation.
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Grand Circle Island Tour with Snorkeling with the Turtles
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Circle most of the island of Oahu on a full-day tour by minibus limited to 20 passengers, a smaller group than typical island coach tours. With an informative guide, you’ll make about a dozen stops, including the chance to see Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat during an hour of snorkeling on Oahu’s North Shore. Get a comprehensive overview of top attractions such as Diamond Head, Makapu’u Beach, Halona Blowhole and the Dole Plantation. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Waikiki is included.
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$39.30 savings
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
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Private Hawaiian Food Tour by Bike in Oahu
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Get an insider's perspective on the best spots for local Hawaiian food during this bike tour. Stop at several different restaurants, bars, and cafes for some local favorite bites and tastes, sampling food at 5 to 6 stops, accompanied by information on Hawaiian culinary traditions from your guide. Meeting point is in central Waikiki.
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City-by-the-Sea - 20 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On
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This 20-minute helicopter tour gives you views of Waikiki and the Honolulu skyline. Choose the doors-off option to get the best possible photos from your guaranteed window seat. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Honolulu included.
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From
$190.00
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Open-Door Helicopter Tour over Oahu
366
Fly aboard an open-door helicopter over Oahu for unobstructed views of the island on this tour. Feel the high-flying wind in your hair and, with your camera out and ready to snap stunning photos, listen as your pilot narrates your flight over sights like Pearl Harbor, Honolulu Harbor, Hanauma Bay and the Halona Blowhole. This excursion includes a DVD of the flight and round-trip transportation from selected hotels.
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Moana’s Sunset Sailing along Oahu's Waikiki Coast
11
As we sail alongside Oahu’s iconic Gold Coast, you’ll find yourself experiencing a bucket list moment as it happens. From marveling at the changing colors of the sky as the sun sets, to spotting whales and dolphins*, all while sipping on a Mai Tai, creates an ambiance that can’t be replicated anywhere else in the world.
*From November to May, there is the added possibility of spotting Humpback Whales, a once in a lifetime experience that you will never forget.
Sign up online today, our experienced captains, and knowledgeable staff will be waiting for you. Don’t forget the camera!
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$80.03
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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