Diamond Head Summit Trail

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The trail to the summit of LeÊ»ahi (Hawaiian name for Diamond Head Crater) was built in 1908 as part of OÊ»ahu’s coastal defense system. Completed in 1911, the Fire Control Station at the summit directed artillery fire from batteries in Waikiki and Fort Ruger outside Diamond Head crater. The walk is a glimpse into the geological and military history of this volcanic crater. Much of the trail is a natural tuff surface with many switchbacks traversing the steep interior slope of the crater wall. The ascent continues up steep stairs and through a lighted 225-foot tunnel. At the summit, you’ll see bunkers on the crater rim and a navigational lighthouse built in 1917 along the coast outside the crater. The postcard view of the shoreline of southeastern OÊ»ahu from Koko Head to Wai’anae is stunning, and during winter, may include passing humpback whales.