If you're thinking about visiting Diamond Head, consider taking a tour. Not only will you learn facts and history from a knowledgeable guide, but you'll also avoid the hassle getting (and possibly parking) to Diamond Head.
Head to Honolulu, on the island of Oahu for a Diamond Crater adventure. The Diamond Head Crater is what's left of the Ko'olau Volcano, which has been dormant for about 150,000 years. The tour consists of hiking to the top of Diamond Head Crater while learning about its geology and history, from the tour guide. You'll also receive an "I Climbed Diamond Head" certificate, upon completion.
Included in the tour price is free pickup and drop off at select Waikiki hotels, in an air-conditioned vehicle. Don't worry, tour groups are kept small to ensure everyone hears and experiences everything. The entry fee to the crater is also included in the tour price. Children must be at least five years old, and people up to age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. While most people can participate, there is no wheelchair access, and if you have significant heart, back problems, or are pregnant, it's not recommended due to the steepness of the climb in some areas.
The tours start at 8:00 AM and last about 3 hours. The cost for the tour is $42.00. Once at the top, you will have a 360-degree view, to take as many photos as you wish. You will see birds, wildlife, and beautiful flora. Bring plenty of water, and possibly a rain poncho. If you should need to cancel, you'll need to provide at least 24 hours' notice.
The Diamond Head Bike to Hike and lunch tour is another great option. You'll leave from Waikiki on a bicycle and ride to the base of Diamond Head. From there you will hike up to the top. Your tour guide will point out sites, such as Doris Duke's mansion, hidden beaches, flora, and wildlife, as you learn about the history of Hawaii.
Included in the tour price, is the use of a bicycle, helmet, lunch, snacks, water, and all park entrance fees, as well as a tour guide. You will start out at Kuhio Beach Park, in Honolulu, at 7:00 AM. First, you will get brief instructions about how to ride the trail, then head out. Expect to ride at least nine miles plus the hike. You should be in fairly good physical shape. The fee is $109.00. Please note that they don't operate on weekends in the Summer.
The last tour is the Diamond Head State Monument Deluxe Tour. This is a fun hike that you get to take, at your own pace. You receive a self-guided audio tour with a map, to learn all about the history of Diamond Head, as well as the geology, plant and animal life. It's a 1.6-mile hike to the top and back, so wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
The tour includes the audio tour, map, an "I Hiked Diamond Head" T-shirt, souvenir bag, and certificate. It does not include the walk-in entrance fee of a $1.00 or if you park there $5.00 fees. It lasts about two hours and costs just $19.95 per person. There is no wheelchair access. If you need to cancel, plan to do so 24 hours before the start of the tour.