Oahu's Diamond Head, Koko Crater, and Nuuanu Pali Lookout

Diamond Head, Koko Crater, and Nuuanu Pali Lookout are three renowned destinations on Oahu that showcase Hawaii's natural beauty and historical significance. Diamond Head, located east of Waikiki, is a volcanic crater formed by an eruption 200,000 years ago. It became a U.S. military lookout in 1908 and is now a state monument offering stunning views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. Koko Crater, situated in southeastern Oahu about 10 miles from Diamond Head, is a tuff cone that served as a military base in the 1940s. Today, it houses the Koko Crater Botanical Garden, featuring trails and a rich variety of tropical plants. Nuuanu Pali Lookout, located in northeastern Oahu, overlooks the Windward Coast and holds historical significance as the site of King Kamehameha I's 1795 battle to unify Oahu. The Diamond Head trail is approximately 0.8 miles long, ideal for hiking, and offers views of Maui from the summit. During winter, visitors might spot humpback whales. The Koko Crater trail is steeper, about 1 mile long, and challenges physical endurance, with panoramic views of Hanauma Bay from the top. Nuuanu Pali Lookout is known for its strong winds and provides vistas of Kaneohe Bay and Rabbit Island. Winter weather can be chilly, so wearing a thick jacket is recommended. The lookout also has rest areas for visitors. In terms of transportation, all three locations are accessible via public transit. The nearest bus stop to Diamond Head is "Diamond Head Rd," reachable by TheBus Route 23 from Waikiki in about 20 minutes, with a fare of approximately $3 and a 10-minute walk to the entrance. Koko Crater can be accessed via TheBus Route 22 to "Hanauma Bay Rd," with a 40-minute ride costing around $3, followed by a 15-minute walk. Nuuanu Pali Lookout is accessible via TheBus Route 55 to "Pali Hwy," with a 30-minute ride costing about $3 and a 20-minute walk. Open year-round, these destinations are perfect for visitors planning a trip to Oahu. =========================== 📍 Address: Diamond Head: 18th Ave, Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, USA, 96815; Koko Crater: Hawaii Kai, Oahu, Hawaii, USA, 96825; Nuuanu Pali Lookout: Pali Hwy, Kaneohe, Oahu, Hawaii, USA, 96744 🕰️ Hours: Diamond Head: Daily 6:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM); Koko Crater: Daily 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; Nuuanu Pali Lookout: Daily 9:00 AM–4:00 PM (subject to weather conditions)