Diamond Head Hike Guide: Reservations, Timing & Tips
Non-residents need both an Entry reservation and a Parking reservation to visit Diamond Head State Monument, and both are made online through the state parks reservation system. The trail runs about 0.8 mile each way from the trailhead to the summit, and it is steep enough that most people allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the full outing. Because Diamond Head sits at the east end of Waikiki, it fits easily into a half-day from a Waikiki stay. This guide covers the reservation rules, the trail, timing and what to carry.
Do You Need a Reservation
If you do not live in Hawaii, yes. Non-residents must hold Entry and Parking reservations, a requirement in place since May 12, 2022, and both are booked through the state parks reservation system. Hawaii residents enter free with a Hawaii ID or driver's license. The state lists non-resident entry at $5 per person, with children 3 and under free, and non-resident parking at $10 per vehicle. Entry is credit card only, so plan to pay by card. Fees and rules can change, so confirm the current details with the state before you go.
What the Trail Is Like
The trail is 0.8 mile from the trailhead to the summit. The state describes it as steep and strenuous, with 560 feet of elevation gain along the way. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the round trip, which gives you time to move at your own pace and rest when you need to. Good walking shoes make the climb more comfortable. If you have any concern about your fitness or health, take the steepness seriously and set a pace that suits you.
Best Time of Day to Go
The monument is open daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, with the last hike reservation at 4:00 pm and the last entry at 4:30 pm. Gates close at 6:00 pm, and the monument is closed on Christmas and New Year's. A morning start is generally the more comfortable choice, since temperatures are usually cooler earlier in the day, and the first reservation slot is 6:00 am. Conditions vary from day to day, so treat this as general guidance rather than a promise. Whatever time you choose, leave enough room to finish before closing.
What to Bring
Start with good walking shoes, because the trail is steep and you will feel the difference. Bring water for the climb, and wear a hat and sunscreen. Carry a credit card for entry, since the state lists entry as credit card only. Pets are not allowed, except service animals, so plan for your dog to stay behind. Pack light, so your hands are free and the climb stays easy.
Pairing It with a Waikiki Stay
Diamond Head sits at the east end of Waikiki, which makes it an easy half-day from a Waikiki base such as KBM's Ilikai units. You can hike in the morning and have the rest of the day open for the beach or a long lunch. If you are staying at Ko Olina in West Oahu, the monument is a drive across the island, so it works best as its own planned outing. Your reservations come first, so book them before you settle on a day. KBM's concierge can help plan the day around your hike.
Reservation rules, fees, hours and trail conditions change. Confirm current details on the official Hawaii State Parks reservation site before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation to hike Diamond Head?
Non-residents must have both Entry and Parking reservations, made through the state parks reservation system. Hawaii residents enter free with a Hawaii ID or driver's license. Confirm current requirements with the state before you travel.
How long is the Diamond Head hike and how hard is it?
The trail is 0.8 mile from the trailhead to the summit, with 560 feet of elevation gain. The state describes it as steep and strenuous, and most visitors should allow 1.5 to 2 hours. Wear good walking shoes and bring water.
What are the Diamond Head hours?
The monument is open daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. The last hike reservation is at 4:00 pm, the last entry is at 4:30 pm, and gates close at 6:00 pm. It is closed on Christmas and New Year's.
Can I bring my dog to Diamond Head?
No. Pets are not allowed at Diamond Head State Monument, except for service animals. Plan to leave your dog at your rental for the hike.
Explore Oahu
- Ilikai Hotel Luxury Suites (ILK-437), Waikiki
- Ko Olina Beach Villas (BVK-O-1604)
- Oahu vacation rentals
- Guest FAQ hub
Have a question we haven't answered here? Visit our Hawaii & Park City vacation rental FAQ.