Diamond Head Reservations - What You Need to Know

February 02, 2024

Amy Fujimoto

Hiking Hawaii's most iconic landmark now requires advance reservation as of May 12, 2022. The hike up this famous volcanic crater overlooks the Waikiki coastline and the incredible view attracts more than 3,000 hikers daily.

In fact, the record was 6,000 hikers in one day in 2019! Located just a 10-minute drive from the heart of Waikiki, it's easy to understand why the State of Hawaii wants to introduce Diamond Head reservations to combat the eroding environment, illegal parking, and heavy vehicle traffic.

How to Make a Diamond Head Hike Reservation

Out-of-state visitors will need to make their Diamond Head reservation at the Go Hawaii State Parks website.

Input your ticket type (entry only or parking and entry), visit date, and the number of people.

The time schedule is divided into 2-hour blocks from 6 AM to 6 PM, with the park closing at 6 PM. Vehicles must arrive within the first 30 minutes of their reservation.

When making a reservation, you'll be able to book your spot up to 30 days in advance. This will eventually increase to 30 days according to officials.

The entrance fee is $5 per person and $10 per vehicle; a QR code will be sent to you to be scanned at entry eliminating the need for cash exchange at the entrance.

However, keep in mind that there is a Diamond Head souvenir shop and refreshment stand so having cash on hand is still recommended.

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RELATED: Diamond Head Travel Guide

The reservation system only applies to out-of-state visitors. Hawaii residents do not need a Diamond Head reservation as long as they have a Hawaii State driver's license or Hawaii State ID.

Parking is still limited and both residents and nonresidents are encouraged to plan ahead in order to arrive on time.

Out-of-state visitors accompanying Hawaii residents and visitors on commercial tours and trolleys will also need to make a reservation.

Registered tour operators will be able to make reservations on your behalf via their own Diamond Head reservation portal, so please contact your tour operator to confirm your reservation or if you need to reserve your spot on your own.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Diamond Head Reservations

So, to recap, here are the steps you need to make a reservation before you can hike Diamond Head.

Visit the Go Hawaii State Parks Website and make a reservation up to 30 days before your visit to Diamond Head.
Choose your ticket: entry only or parking and entry.
Choose your visit date.
Input the number of people in your group.
Choose the time block that suits your schedule.
After payment, you’ll be sent a QR code that you can show at the Diamond Head entrance.

Do I Need Advanced Reservations at Other Hawaii Attractions?

Diamond Head State Monument is the third park in Hawaii to require advance reservations, joining Haena State Park in Kauai and Waianapanapa State Park in Maui.

As the popularity of Hawaii grows, you can expect more reservation requirements for popular parks in the islands going forth.

For more information about Diamond Head, reservations, park updates and announcements, rules and regulations, trail information, tours, and the online store, visit the official DLNR Diamond Head State Monument page.