Diamond Head - Oahu, Hawaii

The silhouette of Diamond Head sits along the skyline just beyond Waikiki. Diamond Head in Hawaii is 760-foot crater is one of Hawaii's most famous landmarks.  The Diamond Head Crater which is in Honolulu is known for its hiking tours and lighthouse.  There is also the famous Diamond Head Beach which is one of the most beautiful beaches in Oahu.

Diamondhead was known as Leahi by ancient Hawaiians. Diamond Head in Oahu it was named Diamond Head by 19th century British sailors who thought they discovered diamonds on this crater's slopes. These "diamonds" were actually shiny calcite crystals.  This dormant volcano near Waikiki can be seen from anywhere on Waikiki beach. 

Diamond Head in Honolulu was formed more than 100,000 years ago, and this crater was used as a strategic military lookout beginning in the early 1900's.  Diamond Head Crater was named a National Natural Landmark in 1968. Today, Diamond Head is a popular hiking destination with panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu's south shore. Hawaii Discount offers hiking tours to Diamond Head at discounted prices.

The unique profile of Diamond Head (Le'ahi) sits near the eastern edge of the Waikiki coastline. Diamond Head Crater is the most recognized landmark is Oahu. Not only is there a unique lighthouse but there are amazing coastal views when on this dormant volcano, and military history. Diamond Head State Monument is over 475 acres, which makes this dormant volcano an amazing and must see and one of the things to do in Oahu.

This wide crater was formed during a single explosive eruption that sent ash and fine particles in the air of Oahu. As these materials settled, they cemented together to form what is known as Diamond Head in Hawaii today creating the crater. Most of the vegetation and birds were introduced in the late 1800s to early 1900s to Diamond Head Crater in Honolulu which adds to the hiking tours today.

The trail to the summit was built in 1908 as part of Oahu’s coastal defense system. The walk is a glimpse into the geological history of Diamond Head. A concrete walkway built to reduce erosion to a natural tough surface up the trail of this dormant volcano in Oahu.  There are switchbacks traversing the slope of the crater interior of Diamondhead. The ascent continues up stairs and through a lighted 225 foot tunnel to enter the Fire Control Station of Diamond Head completed in 1911. The station directed artillery fire from batteries in Waikiki and Fort Ruger outside Diamond Head crater and the Diamond Head Beach. At the summit of Diamond Head Crater, you'll see bunkers and the navigational lighthouse built in 1917. The photo view of the shoreline from Koko Head to Wai'anae is breathtaking, and during winter months, may include passing whales.

Diamond Head is one of the major landmarks of not only Oahu and Waikiki, but also the Island of Hawaii. Consider taking an Oahu tour such as a hiking tour to see Diamondhead in Honolulu.

Notice that we spelled Diamond Head also as Diamondhead because it is known to be spelled different ways.  Enjoy your trip to Oahu and the beautiful sights.