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Hike Diamond Head Crater | Oahu Things to Do
Hiking Diamond Head Crater is a popular Oahu Activity, and guests at our Waikiki Hotel are just a few miles from this beautiful attraction.
Some of the most stunningly beautiful postcards from Oahu include a view of Diamond Head Crater. The gorgeous views are almost too good to be true, and those who wish to see them in person can enjoy hiking Diamond Head Crater – one of the most popular Oahu Activities.
Hike Diamond Head Crater
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Distance from Ambassador Hotel Waikiki Beach: 2.6 Miles
Diamond Head Crater is a very popular Honolulu Attraction that draws visitors who come to enjoy the challenge of the hike to the summit and the spectacular views when they reach the top. It’s a family-friendly activity, but some may find the climb to the summit a bit challenging.
Facts About Diamond Head Crater:
- The saucer-shaped crater known as Diamond Head was formed from a single volcanic explosion that took place 300,000 years ago.
- The name Diamond Head came because crews from ships in the 1820s thought the calcite crystals on the crater were diamonds.
- The first military base on the Island was built inside Diamond Head’s crater, and it was named Fort Ruger.
- The U.S. government purchased the property for the base in 1905 for the price of $3,300.
- Diamond Head Crater is now a state park and not used for military purposes.
The gorgeous views are almost too good to be true, and those who wish to see them in person can enjoy hiking Diamond Head Crater – one of the most popular Oahu Activities.
Tips for Hiking Diamond Head Crater:
- Hours are 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. 365 days a year.
- The hike to the summit of Diamond Head Crater is less than a mile, but it is quite a challenging hike. It’s a steep, uneven incline, and the final portion of the climb includes very steep stairs.
- The average visitor needs about two hours to complete the hike.
- Once at the top, you will see bunkers and a lighthouse that was built in 1917.
- If you’re lucky enough to enjoy this Waikiki Activity during the winter months, you may see humpback whales frolicking in the ocean.
- It gets hot as the day goes on, so consider getting an early start to avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Another reason to arrive early is that that the parking lot fills up quickly on some days.
- You should carry a bottle or two of water with you.
- A small kiosk in the parking lot sells sunscreen in case you forget to bring some.
- Be sure to have some cash on you as only cash is accepted for the entrance fee.
View the other sections of our Oahu Visitors Guide for more ideas about how to spend your time during your stay at our Honolulu Hotel!
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See our Oahu Travel Blog for interesting articles about all there is to do, see and experience during your visit to Oahu.
