What Makes Diamond Head Beach Great Reason #1: Secluded Beach

Diamond Head beach is relatively secluded compared to most beaches in the area.  That Kahala area has a lot of attractions and residential areas, so it can be congested during peak tourist times.  The last time I was at Diamond Head beach was the week of Christmas and New Years, which is the busiest time of the year for tourism, and the beach was empty!  It was great! There was no one there, relative to other beaches in the area like Waikiki and Cromwells. Without the crowds we got to enjoy the beach to ourselves. This one of my favorite reasons for why I love Diamond Head Beach.  

Hiking Diamond Head

View of Waikiki from atop Diamond Head with Kapiolani Park in the foreground
Waikiki Beach View From Diamond Head by Prayitno / Thank you for (12 millions +) view is licensed under CC BY 2.0. Image may have been resized or cropped from original

What Makes Diamond Head Beach Great Reason #2: Centrally Located

Just like Cromwells Beach, Diamond Head Beach is centrally located near other things.  It’s close to Waikiki area, Kahala Mall and popular eateries like Diamond Head Grill, Banan and others.  The beach is also very close to Cromwells beach, they share the same shoreline, so you could beach hop if you wanted to.  The diamond head area is gorgeous, popular and in high demand because of its convenient location. As a result, it’s a heavy residential area for the wealthier home owners, with stunning beach front properties lined up along the beach. The beach being centrally located makes it easy to pick up plate lunch on the way to the beach, or get together with friends at a restaurant after the beach.  I also appreciate that diamond head beach has easily accessible and free beach parking.

Hiking Diamond Head

Diamond Head is probably the most well -known landmark in Hawaii.
Diamond Head from Tantalus, Honolulu Hawaii ? Eric Tessmer, Molokai, Hawaii by Eric Tessmer is licensed under CC BY 2.0. Image may have been resized or cropped from original

What Makes Diamond Head Beach Great Reason #3: Surf Break

The beach has a great surf break that’s pretty popular.  On big days with high surf, you’ll see a crowd of surfers out there shredding it up. If you’re interested in a surf break, this is the place.  I’m unsure of the name of this break because I’ve never surfed it myself but I know it’s popular. It’s quite a paddle out from the shoreline, so be prepared for a long “commute.” It is at the foot of a cliff, so parking is “Above” the beach and the path walks down to the beach.  Carrying a board up and down that path can be difficult for new surfers. This is why I advise that only experienced, strong surfers that are familiar with the waters and currents in that area venture out here.


Big Ship Sailing On The Ocean by Justin De La Ornellas is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0. Image may have been resized or cropped from original.

What Makes Diamond Head Beach Great Reason #4: Gorgeous View from Above

Diamond head beach is unique in that it’s at the base of a cliff.  Hence, you’ll park at the top of the cliff and walk down to the beach.  It’s not a long or strenuous walk. It sounds dramatic, but it’s not. The elevation climb is probably less than 500 feet. When parking at the top, you get a gorgeous view of the shoreline below.  It’s stunning. I think it’s one of my favorite lookout points. You’ll see couples and families stop and park here for the sunset just to watch the view. It’s that gorgeous. Of course, most views in Hawaii are pretty stunning but this is one of my favorites.  


Summit at Diamond Head State Monument by 100775237@N03 is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0. Image may have been resized or cropped from original.