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Penny at 2 Birds Boutique
Summer trips is one of our family tradition that we make every effort to do every year. With the COVID-19 pandemic we missed out on our trip this year. Having so much time at home and dreaming of traveling I’ve decided to write about the wonderful places we’ve explored.
I’m not a writer or a blogger, so please be kind. Just want to share places you can do with the whole family. Not only are they fun, but also educational for kids. Each picture tells a story. Memories that will last a lifetime.
I’ve scouted out some of the top things to do with the whole family. Since there are so many different places to see, I’ve decided to breakdown the different places we’ve visited. Hopefully will help you plan your next summer trip. I tried to focus on places that are kid friendly.
We took these amazing pictures and they will be available soon for purchase as digital download.
How to Hike the Diamond Head Trail at Waikiki, Honolulu Hawaii
Last year we took a two week trip to Waikiki, Honolulu Hawaii. First place we visited was the Diamond Head (Lē‘ahi) Trail.
The Diamond Head Trail is one of the most beautiful hike in the word that offer spectacular 360-degree view of Waikiki, Honolulu and East Oahu once you reached the top summit. This saucer-shaped crater was formed about 300,000 years ago during a single eruption that sent ash and fine particles in the air. The hike is a glimpse into the geological and military history of Diamond Head. It takes about 45 to 60 minutes to reach the 760-foot summit. You'll want to allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to really enjoy the hike and the scenery while you're there. It can take a little longer if the trail is crowded when you visit. So it is best to go early in the morning when it is less crowed and not as hot. Make sure to bring a bottle of water and a cap or a hat with you to protect from the sun. Adults and kids of all ages can hike this trail. My kids were ages 12 and 8 at the time and we also have my mom with us who is in her 60. So they were able to hike the trail with no problem. Just make sure to take several breaks in-between.
Here is a quick guide to the park and what to expect:
What to bring
- Bottle water
- Bring a hat or cap (trust me it gets really hot as you make your way to the summit and not much shade)
- Plenty of sunscreen
- Sunglasses
Where to park
Parking fill up quickly so plan to arrive early in the morning. Parking is $5 and they only take cash. So make sure to bring cash with you. They also offer free parking across the street from Diamond Head at Kapiolani Community College, but you will have to pay $1 for entry. The last entrance to hike the trail is at 4:30 pm. The gates are locked at 6:00 pm and you must be out of the park by this time, but check with the park first to make sure the time is still the same.
What to expect during your hike
Make sure to use the restroom first before making your hike as there are no restroom stalls through the trail.
The beginning of the trail is easy and wide, but as you go further up the trail it becomes narrow.
Some sections of the trail becomes uneven and steep. So take extra caution and make sure to wear appropriate shoes.
As mentioned earlier, the hike can take about 45 to 60 minutes to reach the 760-foot summit depending on the crowed. There are rails along the trail so you can take breaks to catch your breathe. Throughout the trail there are a few lookouts that offer spectacular views.
Lookout from Diamond Head Trail. These pictures are available to purchase as a digital download.
As you get closer to the summit there are stairs that lead you to the first tunnel (225 feet long), which we didn’t get a picture of. Once you are at the end of the tunnel there are another stair (99 steps). This one is a spiral staircase which add a sense of adventure and mystery to this amazing place. This will lead to into a second tunnel and finally you have reached the SUMMIT!
This is ones of the best views of Waikiki. Well worth the hike and the kids love it.
Summit view from Diamond Head Trail. These pictures are available to purchase as a digital download.
