Diamond Head Beach Park

Diamond Head Beach Park is a rocky south shore beach below Diamond Head Road, with surf breaks, tidepools, lighthouse views and a narrow strip of sand away from Waikiki's busiest crowds.

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Diamond Head Beach Park, Oahu

Diamond Head Beach Park is located below Diamond Head, an extinct volcanic crater at the eastern end of Waikiki. The park includes two acres of sea cliffs on the south slope of the crater between Beach Road and the Diamond Head Lighthouse.

The beach here is narrow and fronted by a rocky shelf. The swimming conditions are poor because of the coral reef, but surfers find a quieter surf spot here compared to Waikiki Beach. Snorkeling is also good if the waves aren't too high. Diamond Head Beach is also a popular tidepool excursion site.

Key Features

Rocky beach below Diamond Head Road on Oahu's south shore
Narrow sand and reef shelf at the base of sea cliffs
Popular surf area with offshore breaks called Cliffs and Lighthouse
Tidepools and coastal photos are common reasons to stop
Views of Diamond Head Lighthouse and the open south coast
Swimming is limited by reef, rocks and changing surf
No lifeguards, and facilities are very limited
Roadside parking along Diamond Head Road is limited
Quieter alternative to Waikiki for surf watching and photos
Close to Waikiki, Kapiolani Park and Diamond Head State Monument

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Diamond Head Beach Park also called Cliffs?

Cliffs is one of the surf names tied to this part of Diamond Head. The reef breaks sit offshore below the cliffs, and surfers also refer to nearby spots such as Lighthouse.

Is Diamond Head Beach Park the same as Diamond Head State Monument?

No. Diamond Head Beach Park is the coastal park below Diamond Head Road. Diamond Head State Monument is the crater hike above and inland from the beach.

What makes photos here different from Waikiki?

The scene is rockier and more open, with sea cliffs, reef flats, surfers offshore, Diamond Head Lighthouse and the crater above the road. It has a wilder look than the main Waikiki sand.

Why do surfers like Diamond Head Beach Park?

The offshore reef breaks pick up south and southeast swell, and the named surf areas around Cliffs and Lighthouse can offer both right and left waves.

Are tidepools easy to see at Diamond Head Beach Park?

At lower tide, tidepools can appear on the reef flats near the beach. Step carefully on the rocks and leave shells, small marine life and reef areas undisturbed.