Diamond Head Crater
Hawaiian Name: Leahi
Location: Oahu, Hawaii, U.S.A.
Elevation: 762 ft (232m)
Type: Volcanic Cone
Diamond Head is probably the most famous volcanic crater in the world. It is located on the southeast coast of the island of Oahu, Hawaii, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The Hawaiians called the volcanic tuff cone Leahi, meaning "brow of the tuna". It was during the 19th century that British sailors mistakenly took the calcite crystals in the rock to be diamonds, hence referring to it as Diamond Head, its now official English name.
The Diamond Head volcanic crater has been inactive for roughly 150,000 years. Its age is thought to be 200,000 years old. Diamond Head is only one of the several volcanic eruption events in a series that geologists refer to as the Honolulu Volcanic Series. Other Oahu landmarks that belong to this Honolulu Volcanic Series include Hanauma Bay, Koko Head, Punchbowl Crater and Manana Island.
Fort Ruger was established in the Diamond Head Crater in 1898, to provide the newly acquired United States land with harbour security. In 1910 an observation deck was constructed at the summit of the crater, along with an underground complex that served as a command post. Diamond Head Crater is military property, but it is open to the public for hikes and exploration.
The Diamond Head Trail
- 1.75 miles to the rim, mostly paved
- 2 sets of stairs (one 99 steps, the other 76 steps)
- 225 foot tunnel
- Bathrooms at trailhead
- Moderate climb
The hike to the summit of Diamond Head Crater is definitely worth the climb. The views from Waikiki to the Koko Head are spectacular. Some suggestions if you plan on making the climb:
- Bring a flashlight for the tunnel.
- Bring plenty of water.
- Be careful near drops, as the wind can be very strong - hold on to your hats and to your children.
- To beat the heat, plan to climb first thing in the morning or later in the day when the sun is not overhead.
- The entry gate closes an hour-and-a-half prior to the park closing, to make sure everyone who enters has time to reach the summit and return. If you are late returning, your vehicle will be locked into the park, as they secure the gates when the park closes.
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