Great hike! I definitely recommend arriving early, as the park fills up quickly. After 10, it gets really hot and the hike becomes more of a chore. Right now, there is no outdoor mandate for masks in Hawaii. The signs that say masks are required in the park appear to only be required when within six feet of others at the entrance, and when buying things, also at the entrance. There is no enforcement of masking on the hike. We chose to park at the park, which is 10$ for a vehicle and you have to wait for a spot to open up. The trade off is that your car is not likely to be broken in to while on the trail. If you've hiked other hikes in Hawaii, you know break-ins are a problem, so 10$ is worth it. After your hike, cool off with a dole whip, (pineapple ice cream), or a pineapple smoothie. There are also mango smoothies and lots of other refreshments available at the small stands towards the right of the trail entrance. There is an area with picnic tables and shade trees to the left of the trail entrance. It's 5 dollars a person to hike the trail, (unless you're local). There are 3 machines to pay for tickets, (located to the left of the trail entrance) and they accept credit cards. The attendant in the booth on the left as yoy walk towards the trail will take your receipt, or check your HI ID. The trail starts off smooth paved, and then transitions into a rocky paved, but is solid, paved ground all the way. There are a few portions with stairs, all towards the summit. Be careful on your way down the stairs, we saw 2 people almost fall, as their legs were tired from the climb. You experience that the most on the way down, believe it or not. Bring water on the hike. At least a liter per person should cover you. There is some shade in the beginning of the hike, and a cave towards the end, (no way to rest in the cave, it's stairs and a tight squeeze in passing two way traffic). Otherwise, you are exposed to the sun, especially if it is directly overhead during mid-day hours.

There is a large field that is perfect for a picnic without going on the hike, if preferred (picture included). It was a moderate hike up to the summit, the slower you go the easier it is. The trail had plenty of places to rest and allow others to pass with plenty of photo opportunities. The hike back down was a breeze, just make sure you take some water and maybe a small snack and keep all your trash until you get back down. Highly recommended for the beautiful view of the crater and surrounding area at the top, also has an interesting history to read about!

Hawaii's most famous natural monument. Beautiful hiking to the top of the hill, from where there is a view of Honolulu and Waikiki beach. Admission is $5, parking is $10. You can get here through a tunnel, there is a parking lot and washrooms, you can buy small snacks and drinks here. The trail takes about 1.5 hours, along the way there are information boards where you can learn more about this beautiful place.

What a great experience and what a great view from the top. Being out of shape, the hike did make my wife and I work, but we made it up fairly quickly. This is more of a rugged hike compared to some of the paved bikes in Hawaii, but it’s still manageable for most people and the view is well worth it.

About 1.8 mile round trip hike with great views. Continuous uphill hike with several flights of stairs. Recommend to go early in the morning before it gets too hot. Make sure to take at least 2 to 3 liters of water. Once you reach the top, the views are amazing. This is one of the places you must visit if you are in Oahu, Hawaii. It's bout 10 to 15 min drive from Waikiki Beach.

This hike phenomenal. Even the drive to reach this place is fantastic. There is a look out just before the tunnel it’s beautiful, driving thru the tunnel is also amazing with white lights. The views after reaching the top is amazing. One side is the city view and the other side is the ocean view it’s amazing. Definitely recommend this hike if you are in Honolulu. Reservations are required, I recommend the morning reservation since it’s very hot and you walk opposite to sun most of the hike. Do the reservations quickly since they allow limited people. The to and fro hike is about 2 hours which is moderate and very safe as well.

We’re good shoes! Bring H2O to hydrate! And wear a hat! Make parking reservations and tickets ahead of time, on line. Go at your own pace and enjoy the scenery! It is a bit of an up hill walk with lots of steps at the top. There is a long lighted tunnel you go through so if you have a phobia of small darkish places or heights you might want to rethink going to the summit. If you go to the summit go into the gunner pit. And at the back the is spiral steps that will take you down the back way. The view is well worth the hike. It is not a hard hike just up hill and lots of steps. Allow 2 hours so you can take in the view and relax at the summit. Nice way to spend a few hours.

Diamond head was a great hiking challenge but quite congested and not the smoothest path to making it to the top. I recommend wearing comfortable and sturdy shoes to stay safe. And we arrived at 7am in the morning so it might be better to go as soon as it opens or 1-2 hours before closing to avoid the crowds.

Such a gorgeous view! I would call this more of a moderate hike than easy. There are some daunting steps, but it's really worth it. Bring water, wear sunscreen, take your time and enjoy the views on the way up! Also make sure to book your reservation ahead of time! They were kind enough to work with me at the gate, but I don't know how lucky I got with slots that were left. It definitely was not crowded. There were people there but at no point was it overwhelming. Everyone was super friendly and mindful of pictures and letting everyone get that perfect picture.

Great morning or afternoon activity for folks who like to hike. You must make a reservation online in advance, so make sure that gets down before you go. Timeslots are usually available the day before or day-of. It takes about an hour to climb up, less to come down. So if you enjoy the view for 30 minutes it just over 2 hours altogether.

Had a nice walk up to the top. It is paved with sidewalks and steps. It was nice to go in the morning. There were people on the trail, but it wasn't too crowded. Great views of Waikiki from the summit.

Great, well maintained hiking trail. A little narrow in spots. Not hard at all. Actually one of the easier trails I've done across the country. Most people get up in 45 minutes. If you're really in shape, you can do it even faster. All shapes and sizes easily went up and down. Definitely wear trail shoes or shoes with good grip. A lot of steps towards the top, FYI. Go in the morning or around sunset to avoid biggest crowds. Bathrooms and water/vending machines at the visitor center. Just know that now you have to make A RESERVATION ONLINE to get into the park. $5 to hike. $10 if you want to park in the lot inside the park.

Absolutely brilliant view out here. Along the trail the crater become very clear. It is quite the sight to see. Once you reach the top the view only gets better. The old bunker is pretty amazing to check out from the inside and out. And at the very top you get a very clear view of the ocean, Honolulu and the mountains in the middle of the island. Check it out it is worth the climb.

This was a great hike! There are some cool military lookouts to explore, and amazing views of the island! We did this hike with young children, so it wasn't too strenuous. There are some pineapple smoothie food trucks in the parking lot that are worth going to! It's super yummy and a great way to end your hike.

Loved going here. I hiked to the top with my wife after we walked around and explored the area. It’s beautiful and well worth a visit if you are in Hawaii. We walked from Waikiki and it is a pleasant walk on a nice day. If you decide to go to the top make sure to bring plenty of water and take your time. Well worth visiting if in Hawaii.

It’s a beautiful state park with lots of history behind it. You can see areas that were used for military purposes back in the day. The view is incredible especially when you climb high enough. There’s lush greenery and blue oceans for miles along with a decent view of a nearby city. Be sure to pack sunscreen and hold onto your hats and other loose items; it gets windy at the top. I might have lost mine if it weren’t for my hat’s drawstring. As implied and shown in the pictures, it’s a steep hike. Be prepared for a workout climbing to the top. To me, the climb was absolutely worth it.

I will start off by saying make sure you make reservations at the .gov website for the day and time you will be visiting. It also asks about parking too. (IN ADVANCE). It is a wonderful hike. Starts out on a paved pathway, then turns into uneven rock. I have to say it is a beautiful hike up to Diamond head from inside the crater all the way up the mountain! They have several places for great photo opportunities and stops along the way up to sit. There is a tunnel to go through, and then you have a choice to take the 99 stairs or go left to two more lookouts. We went left and had a slow climb to the top. As we stopped to take it all in. They have 4 different places to stop and take in the view or catch your breath. At the very top of Diamond head, you can see the inside of the crater, light house, Waikiki beach, & all the buildings of honolulu. We are in our 30s, but we met people of all ages (2-74) walking to the top. There is also a railing on one side that I found very helpful going down. They do have clean restrooms, water fountains, picnic tables & a small gift shop at the welcome center (bottom of crater). Just views at the top.

A very nice walk, includes for about 20 minutes (took me 45 minutes with kids). A great lookout. There are bathrooms at the bottom and vending machines with drinks. I saw some nice birds and first time seeing a mongoose (saw 3 of them). A good experience as a tourist. Don’t forget to book online and pay $5 before you go as reservations are required.

This is one activity that everyone should experience while visiting Hawaii. The hike is treacherous, but the reward is very much well worth it. I recommend very comfortable clothes, hiking boots/shoes and bottled water. Also, make sure that you use the washroom before the hike. The terrain starts out smooth but then changes the more you ascend. Take frequent breaks if needed and there is a nice reward at the end.

Loved Diamond Head. It was pretty hot the day I went so be sure to have ample hydration. I’d label the trail as moderate, less because of the incline or mileage and more for the uneven surfaces and at times tight passageways. Otherwise, this is a great hike for the average able-bodied person and the views are well worth it if you can make it to the top!

Very nice park. The bus goes right to the front of the park if you don't have a rental car / live here. The hike is actually pretty fun especially when you get into the tunnel parts. Be prepared for stairs but the views at the top are quite worth it (see photos below)

This was a great hike! The view from the top is phenomenal! My family and I reserved tickets 2 days before for a 10am hike and the timing was great bc it allowed us to fit another activity after the hike. There are people of all ages in this trail so it is doable even if you are not a hiker. In the final stage I would totally suggest the ramps instead of the stairs since you continue enjoying the view. Definitely recommend!

Lovely hike, well setup for almost anyone to get to the top. Took about an hour to climb to the top and about half an hour to climb down. The view is incredible from the top. I would recommend going early before it gets too hot. Honestly, it was a great little morning activity, and I would recommend.

Really enjoyed the hike to the top of Diamond Head. The trail is easy and accessible. Yes, there are a bunch of steps but come on, you are climbing up to the top of a volcano crater. Take your time and go at your own pace. Bring water and some energy bars. There is nothing available after the parking lot. Go early cuss it’s a popular place. They did a good job of metering cars into the limited parking. Highly recommended.

Great place to visit with the family. The park is a short walk from Waikiki if you're up for another mile or two of walking. If you prefer, take an UBER and depending on your location and time of day, it would cost around $25 to $30. We paid $24 with the tip and that was early in the morning on a comfortable mini van. I suggest for anyone to get to the park as early as possible as it is not crowded before 8 am. Trail is easy and when you get to the top, the views are incredible and worth the short but warm hike! Yes, it could be warmer while on the hike.. not much air movement inside the park but once you get to the top it gets more comfortable with enough wind to co you down. Don't forget to bring water! There are refreshments at park. We chose to have them after the hike. There isn't trash containers at the top nor along the trail, so keep that in mind. Enjoy !

Mostly paved or rock trail with railings and scenic overlooks. A little muddy in a few spots after a rain. Make sure to get reservations for your out-of-state guests. Cheap and easy online, $5. None needed for resident. Recommend early reservation for sunrise and while still cool and less busy.

Such a fun hike and beautiful view at the top. When it says going left is the best route, they are serious. Both trails end at the same destination, and you can go down the harder way to see that route.

FYI reservation required to get into the park. Definitely recommend doing the summit hike at sunrise - beautiful spot. Although it’s a pretty good incline, the trail is easy enough for less experienced hikers and there are spots to stop and catch your breath if needed. Recommend hiking boots or sneakers with good traction.

My family had a great experience hiking to the summit of Diamond Head. We have three small children, all of whom were able to complete the hike. The views are spectacular, with plenty of photo ops along the way. Be sure to bring water and maybe a light snack, as the hike up/down takes several hours. Well worth the trip!

Wow. Definitely not the easiest but the reward is worth it. Beautiful views of the island, the expansive ocean and a lighthouse from the top, as well as the gun tower. Stretching before is highly recommended and take some water. Clean Restrooms and plenty of drink vending machines at the base. If you forget your water.

Diamond Head is a must see and hike, but take it slow if you are not used to a moderately strenuous walk. The path/trail is very easy and level at the bottom, but gets rocky and steep with stairs at the top. Great views reward the adventurous.

The views are breathe taking. All view points are great. Don't miss the spiral stairs on the way down. On the top the huge crater and on the left the aqua blue water meeting along the shores of high rise building is a view to watch.

Great little hike for the family to see some great views! Don't touch the hand rails or your hands will turn rusty brown. Don't try going to the top with a stroller or someone way out of shape. Bring and drink water!

Diamond head is a must see when you travel here. The hike is low-medium difficulty but be prepared to move slowly if bringing elders with you or children. The drive up is pretty simple and the views once you get to the top of the hike are wonderful. If you have a fear of heights take your time, but this is a fantastic experience!

Easily one of my favorite early morning walks in the area. Parking is limited so early arrival is optimal, but you can park outside of the crater and walk to the entrance. It's not too difficult of a trek, just a lot of stairs and some small spaces. Views are excellent. Can be crowded at times depending on when you go.

A very scenic hike with lots of photo spots. Fairly easy to do with a good number of rest stops. It may be difficult to park when the lot is full, you'll just have to circle and hope someone leaves.

Awesome place in a relatively easy hike if you're in fairly good shape. I'm in my 40s and have quite the dad bod but I was able to successfully climb to the summit without too much issue. The 99 steps towards the top got a little tiring but there's another way you can go if you don't want to use the steps.

There is a 5$ free for non residents. Nice place for a light hike. Kid friendly. Bring money for the pineapple stand at the entrance

Great, short hike. It can be steep, but the ground is solid. Recommend going early to avoid rush coming in around 0830-0930. Honolulu Pineapple Co is a must visit after your hike. This would be a fun trail run when not too crowded. $10 to park, $5 to walk in, $5 per person to hike the actual trail (or free with Hawaii ID).

What an experience!!! My husband and I had NO idea what we had gotten ourselves into until we started out on our journey to climb to the top of Diamond head! Word of caution if you have small children that hate walking, don't go. If you have knee, feet, or back pain don't go. If you can not walk on rocky ground don't go. This is a journey! Now that that's out of the way, if you are looking for an experience that you'll never forget, Go! If you want an extreme stress reliver, Go!!! If you want to push yourself emotionally, mentally, and physically, Go! After we made it to the top, what a sense of joy and accomplishment we felt. It was about an hour up, and an hour down. A great memory maker!

Pretty easy hike which takes approx 30-45min. Views are amazing but be advised that it will be packed with tourists at almost any time. Also do not forget to make a reservation for the park beforehand.

This place contains an amazing view. It does come at a cost to "vacationers", at the time of this comment, you must reserve a spot online to get a parking spot. It's well worth it. The hike to the top is quite challenging. But there are spots along the way you can stop and rest. They also have water bottle machines at the trail head before you start the hike if you would like to purchase one.

Amazing hike with amazing views! The trail is mostly paved and easily walked by all ages. I did the loop at the top from the left, leaving the bunkers as the finale. It felt almost unreal being in these old WWII lookout positions, and I loved being able to exit through the back passageway. I got tickets in advance and started right as the park opened, so there weren't a ton of people. On the way down, I encountered several large groups, so I would definitely recommend starting early!

Very cool adventure. It was slightly overcast when we went there. The fog started to clear up when we reach the top. So we got lucked out to get a good picture. Its probably a 1 hr hike their and back. They have a bunker at the top its very cool. The views here are an amazing shot of the pacific and crater. Make sure if you do go to bring a poncho. It rains here quite often in December. I didn't bring one and bought two garbage bag ponchos at the souvenir shop for 6.00. You have to make reservations to get in if your not a local.

The hike to the top is tough, but doable. Take plenty of water! Also, make sure your shoes fit properly and have good grip. Set a reasonable pace. Rest when you need to. People we passed generally did the right thing by getting out of the way, and there are a few wide spots in the trail to make it easier. The view is spectacular and I'm glad I got to see it.

An excellent hike that gives you a great view of the city. It’s a fairly easy hike, but there are some steep steps that one must take. Overall amazing experience, and go in the early morning times, less sun to deal with while coming back down.

This is a must see when visiting Oahu. The hike was steep and challenging but the views were amazing and worth it! There were plenty of spots to rest or have a seat on the way up. Hand rails were a good surprise! The Area was very well kept, bathrooms, water refilling stations, etc. We were there for the full 2 hour reservation, the hike itself took 90 minutes round trip (2 slightly out of shape adults and 3 energetic boys).

Be prepared for this hike to the top, the bathrooms and water station are at the bottom of the climb. Also, be aware there's not a lot of shade on the way up. There are railings and a beautiful view at the top. Follow the suggestions on the park maps, the steepest stairs are on the way down. The trail splits when you get near the top, you can wind your way up then take stairs down.

This is a phenomenal 2-mile hike up to the summit / ridge of the crater. We were initially worried about climbing up under the scorching sun but there were decent trees along the initial path. The hike quickly turns into a quite steep climb and stairs and the folds of the ridge casts great oasis of shade. When we were heading up, we were "fortunate" to run into a micro-climate downpour that lasted about 20 mins to cool everything down. The summit was a bit scary, especially for my younger children as I didn't want them to slip on steel stairs. Holding onto railings rubbed rust on our hands but absolutely fine to tradeoff for safety. The summit tends to get crowded as it feels like a one-way up and down but there actually is a way to do a loop. It's just that the instructions and directions were not clear. And needless to say, the views were phenomenal. This is a must-visit in Oahu. Remember that you need reservations ahead of time. I would highly recommend going in the morning when the sun is angled and you'll get the benefit of the shade as you climb up.

This is a great 2 mile round trip hike with great views of Honolulu, Hawaii. It is a moderately difficult trail. Not only is the elevation gain a bit strenuous, the footing is over a combination of concrete, dirt, rock and a fair number of stairs. You will need an advanced reservation to get in inclusive of both park and parking fees. We went in the afternoon and although a bit hot, we were fine. The advantage of the afternoon is less people. :) Bring water regardless of when you go and take advantage of the break areas (some with seating). The USA used this spot as a gun turret and lookout during World War 2 so if you like history you will find it interesting beyond the hike. Highly recommend a visit and walk up to the top.

Beautiful hike. Took us about an hour to hike up. We saw people trying to push strollers up. Don't try that. It gets rocky and narrow. You won't get that stroller to the top. Lots of stairs at the higher end. Being a camelback for water and sunscreen. Don't forget to make reservations on the website. Access is limited. Restrooms are at the bottom and are decent. There is also a nice shaded area with picnic tables at the bottom.