Diamond Head Trail

We did this hike as a morning hike with plans to go snorkeling after (which we did, at Hanauma Bay). We arrived at 0800, but if we go again, I will probably want to get there earlier. It got busy very quickly, as it is a huge tourist spot. 

The trail starts from the parking lot. Parking is $5, so bring cash, or you will have to drive back down the mountain a bit to find an ATM. Or you can walk in and its $1 per person. 

The first portion of the trail is paved, but it does not continue that way, and it is NOT stroller friendly. However, it is kid friendly. We did this as a group and had 4 kids 6 and under. Even my two year old walked a good bit. 

My sweet little hiking girl

Once you zigzag up the mountain a bit you come to a set of stairs and then a part of the path leads through a dark tunnel. My kids thought it was so fun. Once you emerge from the tunnel you see it!! A TON of stairs. 

There is an alternative way up that goes towards the left. We took the stairs and I had jelly legs! LOL After all of those stairs you go through what used to be an old military look out or bunker with, yes, you guessed it. More stairs. 

Lookout

Spiral Staircase

Once you exit the bunker, you will be able to look down to the right and see Waikiki and then scan the rest of the visible island. You can then follow the path to the left and then up just a bit more to the end of the trail. 

View of Waikiki

On a clear day you can see Molokai way off in the distance

Take a few minutes to look around before heading back down the path. There are so many things you can see. Waikiki, a lighthouse, and even Molokai off in the distance. 

A short hike, but a must while on Oahu. Happy Hiking.