On the fourth of July Charlie and I decided to wake up early and go hiking at Diamond Head in Honolulu. It was the first fun thing we were able to do in Hawaii and I am so happy we did. I highly recommend going early in the morning the earlier you go the less traffic and you do not have to worry about the heat as much. Parking does fill up pretty fast so be prepared to park at the bottom of the hill and walk to the top. The cost is 5$ per car or for a walker 1$ per person. The park is open from 6 am to 6 pm but the last entrance to be able to walk is 4:30 pm. The walk up really is not that bad but once you hit the stairs they are very steep and you defiantly will start to feel it in your legs. When we made it to the very top there is a fence you can "jump" over to this lookout area (not sure if its aloud) but you go around the back of it and can see the views all around! We just set on the ledge and took in the breath taking views. If you haven't been to Diamond Head I do highly recommend it. When you are finished there is a "I conquered Diamond Head" certificate you can purchase, super cool!
The trail to the summit of Le'ahi was built in 1908 as part of O'ahu's coastal defense system. The 0.8 mile hike from trailhead to the summit is steep and strenuous, gaining 560 feet as it ascends from the crater floor. The walk is a glimpse into the geological and military history of Diamond Head. A concrete walkway built to reduce erosion shifts to a natural tuff surface about 0.2 mile up the trail with many switchbacks traversing the steep slope of the crater interior. The ascent continues up steep stairs and through a lighted 225-foot tunnel to enter the Fire Control Station completed in 1911. Built on the summit, the station directed artillery fire from batteries in Waikiki and Fort Ruger outside Diamond Head crater. At the summit, you'll see bunkers and a huge navigational lighthouse built in 1917. The postcard view of the shoreline from Koko Head to Wai'anae is stunning, and during winter, may include passing humpback whales.
http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/oahu/index.cfm?park_id=15
You can visit their website above for more information.
Aloha Y'all,
Lauren
