Diamond Head Tours
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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 96816, USA
113 Tours and Activities to Experience Diamond Head
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HikingDiamond Head Crater Hiking Adventure
Diamond Head is one of the best-known hiking sites in Hawaii. On this guided tour you will not only summit the famed crater, you'll also learn about its volcanic creation and Hawaiian history as you walk. At the top you will be rewarded with a panorama of Waikiki and the turquoise waters stretched out below, and receive an ‘I Climbed Diamond Head’ certificate.
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- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$41.88
4WD ToursDiamond Head State Monument Deluxe Tour
Diamond Head State Monument, Oahu’s third largest visitor attraction, can be hard to navigate on your own. Using our self-guided audio tour, learn about the history, legends, culture, geography, plant and animal life, music and scenery of Diamond Head. The scenic, moderate 1.6 mile hike to the summit awards you with ocean views and refreshing tradewinds. You'll also receive souvenirs like a Diamond Head tote bag and "I Hiked Diamond Head" t-shirt.
... More
- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$19.95
4WD ToursDiamond Head State Monument Package
Experience Diamond Head State Monument with a package that includes an audio hiking tour to see and learn about this crater on the island of Oahu. The package comes with an official "I Hiked Diamond Head" certificate and souvenir tag, as well as a Diamond Head tote bag and a map of the hike to the summit of the crater.
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- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$9.95
HikingDiamond Head Bike to Hike and Local Lunch.
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.
... More
- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$101.15
$17.85 savings
Day TripsUltimate Circle Island Adventure with Waimea Waterfall
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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- 11 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$129.84
Day TripsOahu Grand Circle Island Day Tour
Circle the entire island of Oahu by coach, enjoying ocean views, rugged mountains, and fascinating history during this full-day tour. Check out Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Nu’uanu Pali, the Halona Blowhole and Oahu’s beautiful North Shore. Then soak up Hawaiian history and culture with a stop at the Dole Plantation (where you sample some fresh pineapple) and the serene, Japanese-style Byodo-In Temple. This Oahu circle island tour also includes entrance fees at the temple and round-trip hotel transport.
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- 8 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$117.73
City PackagesWaikiki Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Honolulu
Discover Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, and/or Waikiki on a 1-, 4-, or 7-day hop-on hop-off tour and see all the top attractions at your own pace. Step aboard a double-decker bus or open-air trolley to pass the capital city’s best restaurants and shops, historic sites and renowned scenery. Choose from multiple routes, marveling at Diamond Head on the Green Line or the beautiful Hanauma Bay on the Blue Line. Upgrade to include all of the lines on your ticket.
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- 1 to 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$25.00
Nature and WildlifeTurtle Canyon Catamaran Snorkel Cruise
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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- 3 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$96.75
Half-day ToursLunch at McGarrett's w/ Cousin Flippa Five-0 TV Tour GUARANTEED ACCESS
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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- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$159.00
Dining ExperiencesMajestic Sunset Dinner and Cocktail Cruise with Live Entertainment
Hop aboard Hawaii’s newest yacht cruise, 'The Majestic', admire the setting sun and enjoy a relaxing evening dinner cruise on the waters off Waikiki Beach. Take in unobstructed views of Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline while enjoying an Island Style Buffet or Appetizer Menu options. Hit the dance floor with live entertainment in the open seating lounge. Pick-up and drop-off from selected Waikiki hotels available. Book on a Friday to enjoy an amazing fireworks display off Waikiki beach.
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- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$95.86
Day TripsUltimate Pearl Harbor Circle Island
Maximise your time on Oahu with a tour that checks off all the highlights in just one day. Start by visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, then take the Circle Island Drive, stopping at attractions such as the Dole Plantation, Halona Blowhole, Hanauma Bay Lookout, Hukilau Marketplace, and the North Shore beaches.
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- 10 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$121.19
Day TripsOahu Circle Island Small Group Tour
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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- 9 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$136.29
Day TripsOahu Grand Circle Tour with Snorkeling with the Turtles
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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- 9 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$130.99
Nature and WildlifeHalf Day Eastern Oahu Shoreline Tour
Enjoy a day on the eastern shores of Oahu with this popular tour that kicks off on the slopes of Diamond Head. Wind along the shoreline from Hanauma Bay to Halona Blowhole. Learn about local myths, ancient legends and fascinating history as you travel alongside your expert guide. This tour concludes with incredible views atop the Nu'uanu Pali overlook.
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- 3 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$50.50
City PackagesHawaii Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Take a look at life underwater with this 1-hour glass-bottom boat tour that showcases the hidden treasures of Oahu's blue waters. Watch for dolphins and whales above the surface, and visit one of the four glass-bottom viewing stations to check out colorful marine life below. Whether you spot coral reefs, old sunken ship hulls, or schools of tropical fish, this tour of Waikiki coast will highlight the best of this beautiful destination.
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- 1 hour
- Free Cancellation
From
$40.00
Nature and WildlifeIsle Sights Unseen 45 Minute Oahu Helicopter Tour with Doors Off or On
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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- 45 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$265.00
Day TripsUltimate Grand Circle Island Tour
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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- 9 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$179.00
Price varies by group size
Day TripsHighlights of Oahu Tour - Circle Island, North Shore, Turtles & Local Food
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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- 6 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$167.61
Day TripsOahu Circle Island and Snorkeling Tour
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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- 8 to 10 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$69.50
City PackagesRoyal Crown of Oahu - 60 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On
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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- 1 hour
- Free Cancellation
From
$315.00
Nature and WildlifeWaikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise
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. Round-trip transportation from select Waikiki hotels is included.
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- 1 hour 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$96.75
Day TripsMajestic Circle Island Eco Tour from Waikiki
If you have just one day to explore Oahu, the Circle Island Drive is a must—taking in all the island’s highlights in just one day. This full-day tour from Honolulu visits the the Dole Plantation, the North Shore Beaches, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, and Waimea Falls. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included.
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- 10 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$105.43
City PackagesOahu Fireworks Dinner Cruise
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. Round-trip transportation from Oahu hotels is included.
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- 2 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$161.98
SailingHalf Day Oahu Combo Adventure: Bike, Sail and Snorkel
On this exciting Oahu combo tour, start the day with a downhill bike ride with epic views of the coastline, before boarding a comfortable catamaran for a two-hour snorkeling adventure. On this Oahu biking and sailing tour, all the necessary equipment is provided along with professional guides, as is round trip transportation and a deli-style lunch.
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- 5 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$138.67