Diamond Head Summit Hike from Waikiki — Shuttle, Tickets & What to Expect
Skip the logistics and focus on the climb: this shuttle brings you from Waikiki to Diamond Head with state park reservation tickets included. Expect a 1.6-mile round-trip hike with steep stairs, historic bunkers, and sweeping views of Honolulu and the Pacific.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start at first light
Begin before 8 AM to avoid midday heat and larger tour groups; cooler temps make the stairs and tunnel far more comfortable.
Hydrate for the climb
Bring at least 1 liter of water per person—there’s no reliable water on the trail and the ascent concentrates temperature and effort.
Wear grippy shoes
Sturdy hiking shoes or sneakers with traction help on uneven rock, metal stair treads, and occasional loose gravel.
Ticket and pickup ready
Have your mobile ticket and shuttle pickup point confirmed; the included reservation saves time but requires punctual boarding.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Climb a few steps past the official lookout for a quieter western ledge with different vantage of Kaimana Beach.
- •Visit Kapiolani Park on return—ancient banyan trees and a calm lawn offer shade and a local picnic scene.
Wildlife
- •Red-footed boobies and frigatebirds circling offshore
- •Feral chickens often seen near the park perimeter
Conservation Note
The park limits daily entries via reservation to reduce overcrowding and erosion; stay on the marked trail and pack out rubbish to protect fragile tuff and native plants.
Diamond Head (Leahi) served as a coastal defense site in the early 20th century; bunkers and observation posts remain along the route and at the summit.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Protects ankles and provides traction on paved, rocky, and metal stair sections.
1–2L water bottle or hydration packEssential
Keeps you hydrated through the climb and under direct sun; refill in Waikiki before boarding.
Sunscreen and brimmed hatEssential
Direct sun on exposed trail sections makes UV protection essential.
Light daypack
Carries water, snacks, camera, and a light layer without weighing you down on stairs.
Common Questions
Are park entry tickets included?
Yes—this service includes Diamond Head State Park reservation tickets so you bypass entry lines at the gate.
How long is the hike and how hard is it?
The summit trail is about 1.6 miles round-trip with roughly 560 feet of elevation gain; it’s moderate—steep in sections but short in duration.
Where does the shuttle pick up in Waikiki?
Pickups are typically at central Waikiki locations; confirm the exact meeting point when you book and allow time for a shared-ride pickup window.
Is the trail accessible for strollers or mobility-impaired guests?
The trail includes steep stairs, narrow tunnels, and uneven surfaces, so it’s not suitable for strollers or those with significant mobility limitations.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for those with a moderate fitness level—expect a sustained climb with stairs and short steep sections.
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