Diamond Head

by TalkStory on August 1, 2010

Sunrise at Diamond Head
Diamond Head or Leahi has got to be one of the most hiked places on Oahu due to it’s ease of access and scenic views. You can thank the US Army in 1908 for carving out the trails, steps, tunnels and fortifications that make this hike what it is.
Kahala Tunnel for Diamond Head

Kahala Tunnel

You can either walk or drive through this tunnel. Either way you are going to pay a dollar or five dollars respectively to the parking lot attendant that awaits you on the other side of this tunnel. However, the tunnel is not meant for people and cars to co-exist at the same time, as it’s quite narrow.

Information Center

Information Center

You can learn some facts and trivia about Diamond Head here, before heading out for the 1.3 kilometer hike up to the summit. Bring comfortable shoes, water and sunscreen. This is the only place where you will find bathrooms. Start the hike early, that way you beat the sun and the crowds.

Lookout

Lookout

Here you can see the floor of the crater and parts of Hawaii Kai and Waimanalo.

Winch and cable

Winch and cable

There is an old winch and cable at the lookout, the Army used this to haul up materials from the crater floor to this point. Maybe they can use it again and haul hikers who want a short-cut!

74 steps

74 steps

 These steps will lead you into the first tunnel. No need to bring flashlights as it’s lighted.

99 steps

99 steps

Just when you thought you were finished climbing steps. The cross-beams were used for camouflage in the old days.

Elevation 703.556

Elevation 703.556

Most people’s heads will be hanging down by the time they reach the top of the stairs, so you shouldn’t miss this elevation marker.

Spiral stairs

52 Spiral stairs

Round and round you go, until you reach the Fire Control Station.

Looking out from the Fire Control Station

Looking out from the Fire Control Station

Peering out to Waikiki through the Fire Control Station slits once covered by metal shutters.

Diamond Head Lighthouse

Diamond Head Lighthouse

Walking along the trail, you can see Diamond Head Lighthouse at the bottom.

54 metal stairs

54 metal stairs

Last set of stairs replaced the old ladder to the summit.

Bunker

Bunker

One of the numerous gun bunkers that ring the crater walls.

Rainbow

Rainbow

Rainbow off the waters of Waikiki as seen from the summit. Can you spot all 7 colors in the rainbow?

Diamond Head State Monument
4200 Diamond Head Road
Honolulu, HI 96816
Open: Daily, 6am to 6pm
Cost: $5 per vehicle or $1 per person if you walk in

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