Diamond Head is a famous volcanic
crater of Hawaii, located on the eastern edge of Waikiki’s coastline. The most
recognized landmark is known as Leahi (brow of the tuna) in
Hawaiian. The crater was named “Diamond Head” by 19th century British sailors saw
calcite crystals sparkling in the sunshine and thought they had found diamonds on the crater's slopes. These "diamonds" were actually
shiny calcite crystals that had no value. In 1898, when the United
States annexed Hawaii harbor defense became a main responsibility. One of the
major defense forts, Fort Ruger, occupied the Diamond Head Crater. This broad,
saucer-shaped crater is now a popular tourist place and hiking destination.
Around 1.1 km hike leads to the edge of the crater's rim.
Diamond Head Hawaii has once been
an active volcano, but hasn't spewed any ashes for more than 150,000 years.
Diamond Head Hawaii has steep 99 steps, and a trip through the tunnel leading
to them, as you climb the Diamond Head Trail near Waikiki. Further, geologists
believe that the commercial diamond deposits were formed in the mantle and
delivered to the surface by deep-source volcanic eruptions. These eruptions
produce the kimberlite and lamproite pipes that are sought after by diamond
prospectors.
Diamond Head Hawaii crater was
formed during a single, explosive eruption that sent ash and fine particles in
the air. Once these materials take place, they cemented together into a rock
called tuff, creating this massive crater, and which is visible from the trail
in the park. Most of the vegetation and birds were introduced in the late 1800s
to early 1900s. The crater is 3,520 feet in diameter with a 760-foot summit.
The volcano is a symbol of the worldwide recognition of the Hawaiian Islands.
Many souvenirs from Hawaii and surf shop logos around the world bear the
volcano's distinctive silhouette.
Because of its unique geological
history, Diamond Head was declared a National Natural Landmark in 1968. Moreover,
in the early of 19th century an observation deck was constructed at
the summit to provide target sighting and a four level underground complex was
built within the walls of the crater as a command post. A 580-foot tunnel was
dug through the crater wall to provide easier access to the Fort. A battery of
canons was located within the crater providing complete concealment and
protection from invading enemies.
The observation deck and
underground complex is now abandoned with the advent of radar but evidence of
the command post is still present along Diamond Head Trail. A 1975 televised
game show, The Diamond Head Game was set at Diamond Head. Diamond Head is an
extinct volcano and one of the most photographed attractions in Oahu. In fact,
it is a worldwide symbol of Hawaii and Waikiki, made popular in many movies,
wall calendars and on postcards.
Diamond
Head Volcanic Crater hike takes 1.5 to 2 hours round-trip, and suggested that
hikers bring adequate water, sunscreen and a hat. Although it is not very difficult,
but never underestimate as hike is not a casual one. The mostly unpaved trail
winds over uneven rock, ascends 74 steps, then through a tunnel and up another
steep 99 steps. Further, the there is a small lighted tunnel to a narrow spiral
staircase about 30 steps inside a coastal artillery observation platform built
in 1908. From the summit above the observation platform both Waikiki and the
Pacific Ocean can be seen in detail. Hence, if you want to hike at Diamond Head
then it is highly recommended to come early to avoid the crowds and hot
temperatures.
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