Key Takeaways
- The Diamond Head hike with kids is feasible and rewarding, featuring scenic views and moderate challenges.
- Expect a hike of about 2.6 km with steep stairs and narrow paths; a baby carrier is essential for toddlers since strollers aren’t suitable.
- The hike takes 60-90 minutes at a steady pace, with fun elements like tunnels and bunkers keeping kids engaged.
- Plan to arrive early to avoid the heat, as the trail has minimal shade and becomes very hot during midday.
- Reservations are required for out-of-state visitors, costing $5 per person; ensure to pack water, snacks, and sun protection.
Can you do the popular Diamond Head Hike with kids?
Planning to hike Diamond Head Crater with your family? The famous Diamond Head Hike in Oʻahu is one of Hawaii’s most iconic trails – and yes, it’s absolutely achievable with kids!
It’s short, scenic, and family-friendly, though expect a few steep stairs and some huffing and puffing along the way (mostly from the adults, let’s be honest).
Since we’re being honest, I’m just going to say it – I don’t really enjoy exercising. I wasn’t blessed with kids who sleep, and I’m a working mum. The gym just represents another chore to me and another hour away from my kids. The only exercise I do regularly is walking our two big dogs four days a week.
Despite this, I do love exploring new landscapes with my kids and feel lucky to have ticked the Diamond Head hike in Oʻahu off our family bucket list.
What to expect on the Diamond Head Hike
The Diamond Head Summit Trail is only around 2.6 km (1.6 miles) return, but it’s not a flat stroll. There are stretches of gentle incline broken up by long sets of steep stairs, winding paths through old tunnels, and a few narrow sections where it helps to take turns passing.
The fun bits for kids
Kids will especially enjoy:
- Walking through the dim tunnel near the top
- Peeking out from the old World War II bunkers
- Reaching the summit lookout and spotting Waikiki below
- The ice cream you promised them at the end
It takes roughly 60-90 minutes to reach the top at a steady pace, depending on how many snack and photo breaks you take. The trail is safe with a bit of common sense, with handrails most of the way.
If you’ve got little ones (under six or so), expect to carry them at times. We used a baby carrier, which was a lifesaver once the stairs kicked in. Strollers aren’t suitable.
And that view from the top? Absolutely epic – Waikiki, Honolulu, and the entire coastline stretching out to Ewa Beach and the Waianae Range. If you’re visiting in winter, keep an eye out for humpback whales passing offshore.
Trail quick facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Trail length | 1.6 miles / 2.6 km return |
| Elevation gain | 170m / 560ft |
| Duration | 1.5-2 hours round trip |
| Difficulty | Moderate (stairs, uneven path) |
| Facilities | Toilets, food stalls, and water at base |
| Stroller-friendly? | No |
| Toddler-friendly? | Sort of. You’ll need to hold their hand and/or carry them |
| Best time to go | Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps |
Best time to do the Diamond Head Hike
If you’re travelling with kids, go early in the morning, before 9 am if possible. It gets very hot once the sun is high, and there’s minimal shade along the path. Avoid the middle of the day unless you enjoy feeling like a roast chicken in an oven.
Sunrise hikes are popular (and gorgeous), but note that the carpark doesn’t open until 6 am, so plan accordingly. Sunset hikes are also stunning, but everyone must be out of the park by 6 pm when the gates are locked, so 4 pm is the last entry.
Entry fees and reservations
Since May 2022, all out-of-state visitors are required to make a reservation before entering Diamond Head State Monument.
- Reservations: Can be made up to 30 days in advance
- Cost: $5 per person (non-residents), $10 per vehicle
- Children under 3: Free
- Entry hours: 6 am to 4 pm (last entry 4 pm, park closes at 6 pm)
- Book at: https://gostateparks.hawaii.gov/diamondhead
Arrive within 30 minutes of your booked time slot – they do enforce it!
What to pack for the Diamond Head Hike with kids
You don’t need much, but the right essentials make the walk much easier and safer:
- Reusable water bottles (at least 1L per person)
- Snacks or fruit for energy
- Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
- Baby carrier for toddlers (strollers aren’t allowed)
- A light backpack for your gear
- Camera or phone for those summit shots
There are toilets and snack vendors at the base, so you can grab a cold drink or shave ice when you finish.
My honest thoughts (and mum moments)
I noted with annoyance that, like usual, most of the huffing and puffing came from me, while Jason somehow did this short hike effortlessly. Typical. But the payoff? Sitting in the shade of a little bunker at the top, catching our breath, and taking in that postcard-perfect view.
Despite my complaints, it’s a fantastic family experience – one that’s challenging enough to feel like an achievement, but not so tough that it becomes a nightmare.
My tips for hiking Diamond Head with kids
- Don’t compare yourself to the ultra-fit person jogging up the stairs. Just go at your own pace.
- Pack snacks because hungry children are not happy hikers.
- Hydrate often – It’s dry and hot, even in winter.
- Plan your carry strategy if you have toddlers. Shoulders, baby carrier, whatever works.
- Go early! Avoid the midday sun and the crowds.
If your kids enjoy this walk and you’re keen to do more, check out our Tips for Hiking with Toddlers article.
FAQs about the Diamond Head Hike with kids
Yes, but only if you’re willing to carry them in a baby carrier. The trail has steep stairs, tunnels, and uneven surfaces. It’s not suitable for strollers and it’s too strenuous for a toddler to do themselves.
Around 1.5 to 2 hours round trip, allowing for a quick snack and photo break.
No. You’ll need to carry little ones in a front or back carrier.
Absolutely! The panoramic views over Waikiki and the Pacific are breathtaking and make for great family photos.
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Where to next?
After your Diamond Head adventure, explore more of Oʻahu’s family-friendly highlights:
And if your travels are taking you stateside…
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Let me know what you think!