Diamond Head Crater- Honolulu, HI

For those looking for a unique and breathtaking Oahu nature tour, Diamond Head Crater has no equal. This outdoor tour in Honolulu will fulfill many travelers’ wishes to see nature at her finest.

Diamond Head Crater is located on the southeastern coast of Oahu. It stands sentinel over the Pacific Ocean at the end point of Waikiki.

Some know this beauty as Laeahi. Diamond Head Crater was named Laeahi by the Hawaiians because it looks like the silhouette of a tuna. The name Laeahi translates into “brow of the tuna.”

Diamond Head Crater received its more modern name in the 1800’s. When British sailors were approaching the crater, they saw calcite crystals embedded in lava rock from a distance. When the sun hit these crystals, the sun reflected off of them.

The sun’s reflection made the crystals appear to be diamonds. So, the sailors at first believed that the crater was composed of diamonds.

Diamond Head Crater is an outdoor beauty that has not seen any volcanic activity for 150,000 years. So, many visitors enjoy taking an Oahu nature tour of Diamond Head Crater.

While touring Diamond Head Crater, visitors will find that the crater is 3,520 feet across. In addition, there is a 760 foot summit on this natural landmark. Once you have reached the end of Diamond Head Crater, you will find a magnificent view of the west side of Oahu in its entirety.

Visitors to Diamond Head Crater will are fascinated with the recent history of Diamond Head Crater as well as its natural beauty.

In the late 1800’s, the United States wanted to be as careful as possible about harbor defense in Hawaii. As part of this effort, Fort Ruger was built at Diamond Head Crater.

Inside Diamond Head Crater, the army placed cannons that were concealed from enemies. In addition, the army built an observation platform to observe any enemy encroachment and an underground compound that served as command central.

Then, a tunnel was dug through Diamond Head Crater so that soldiers would have the best access possible to the interior of the crater.

Fort Ruger is no longer in existence. Instead, radars do the work once provided by soldiers. However, visitors on this Oahu nature tour will find signs of the command post along the trail.

The trail at Diamond Head Crater is paved. The trail is steep in certain locations on the trail, so some level of physical fitness is required for the tour.

When you take this Honolulu tour, there are certain items you will need to bring.

For starters, bring a flashlight. There is a 225 foot tunnel on the premises. The tunnel does not have electricity, so the flashlight will be your only light.

You will also need a pair of sturdy hiking shoes. As mentioned, the trail does become steep in spots along this nature tour. In addition, tourists must navigate two different sets of stairs ranging between 75 and 99 steps apiece.

Finally, bring some water with you for the hike. You may get thirsty along the way and appreciate a drink.

When you are planning your Oahu nature tour to Diamond Head Crater, plan to walk at least an hour and a half covering a little over three miles.  If you are bothered by heat, plan to take the tour that leaves around sunrise, rather than the later one.

In closing, be sure to make plans to enjoy Diamond Head Crater. You will find a natural beauty that is increasing in popularity every year.