Diamond Head Road
Diamond Head Road is a scenic drive skirting the iconic Diamond Head Crater, offering ocean views, lush cliffs, and historic landmarks. Just minutes from Waikiki, it's a favorite for photographers, walkers, and sightseers, with highlights like Kuilei Cliffs Lookout, the Diamond Head Lighthouse, and the Amelia Earhart memorial.
Diamond Head Road, Oahu
Diamond Head Road begins at the eastern end of Waikiki. Continue on Kalakaua Avenue past the Waikiki Aquarium and then continue along the foothills of Diamond Head, south Oahu's popular landmark. Diamond Head Road encircles Diamond Head, but the most scenic stretch of the road is along the coastline. The road goes uphill along the cliff and down below is the ocean.
There is a popular lookout point called Kuilei Cliffs (once the road levels out and before it goes downhill again). You can't miss it because there is a large but usually busy parking lot. From here you can enjoy nice views of Oahu's south shore and Kahala, an upscale neighborhood with many fancy oceanfront mansions. From the parking area you can also walk a bit along the road (in the direction where you came from - towards Waikiki) to get a glimpse of the Diamond Head Lighthouse.
Another point of interest is the Amelia Earhart memorial (located at the eastern end of the parking lot). Amelia Earhart was the first person to fly alone from Hawaii to North America on January 11, 1935. Continue driving down Diamond Head Road and you will arrive in Kahala. Kahala Avenue is an expensive Honolulu neighborhood with most homes costing $3 million and up.
Key Features of Diamond Head Road
- Scenic coastal views: Drive or walk along cliffs overlooking the Pacific, with panoramic ocean and Waikiki vistas.
- Historic landmarks: View the Diamond Head Lighthouse and Amelia Earhart Memorial from convenient lookouts.
- Popular photo spots: Kuilei Cliffs Lookout offers unobstructed views of the shoreline and Molokai or Lanai on clear days.
- Whale watching in winter: Bring binoculars during whale season (Dec–Mar) for possible humpback sightings offshore.
- Gateway to Kahala: The drive continues into one of Honolulu's most luxurious neighborhoods, dotted with oceanfront mansions.
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does Diamond Head Road start?
It begins at the eastern end of Waikiki, just past the Waikiki Aquarium, and loops around Diamond Head Crater.
Is there a lookout point along the drive?
Yes, Kuilei Cliffs Lookout offers panoramic views of Oahu's south shore and is a great spot for photos and whale watching.
How long is the Diamond Head Road drive?
The scenic coastal portion is about 2 miles (3.2 km) and takes less than 10 minutes to drive, but it's best enjoyed with stops.
Can I hike or walk along the road?
Yes, sidewalks and paths run along most of the road, making it popular with joggers, walkers, and cyclists.
What's near Diamond Head Road?
Nearby attractions include the Diamond Head State Monument, Kahala Lookout, Kapiolani Park, and the Waikiki Aquarium.