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Diamond Head, perched above the famous Waikiki beach, is definitely Hawaii’s most recognized symbol. While it may just be another extinct volcano, it is the best lookout point on Oahu’s southern shore. When standing at the peak, all of Honolulu is laid out before you, from the coast to Pearl Harbor and Aloha Tower. With its proximity to the tourist hotspot of Waikiki, hiking up this mountain is an extremely popular activity.

You can find access to this amazing mountain through Diamond Head State Park. You can drive down Kalakaua Avenue to Monsarrat which turns into Diamond Head Road. You can take Bus #58, and simply tell the driver you would like to get off at the Diamond Head entrance. After walking through the tunnel entrance, you will find an info center, restrooms, a kiosk and parking lot. This is also where your Diamond Head adventure begins.

The hike up Diamond Head begins with a walk across the volcano floor, with the trail gradually becoming steeper and rockier. After a windy walk, you will find yourself at the first lookout and halfway point. From here, you can see the Windward Coast of Oahu, and it gets better. Once you have climbed a concrete stairway, there will be a 225-foot tunnel cut into the mountain. This is the place where you can take a break from the hot sun, and prepare yourself for the next flight of stairs.

These steps are a little longer than the first, but they also begin the ending of your hike. You will head up some spiral steps, located on the Fire Control Station: Diamond Head. Once you reach the summit, you find yourself on the observation station, your journey completed. You will see the endless blue ocean, the deep green mountains, and a bird’s eye view of Waikiki. While here, take many pictures, have a snack, and drink water. Bask in the glory of your accomplishment, before reapplying sunscreen. The trip down promises to be much easier, but watch the time, as the gates close at 6pm.

Diamond Head State Park is open from 6-6 all year. There’s a $1 admission for walk-ins, or $5 per carload. If you want to try and avoid the tour groups, come early in the morning or after one’ish in the afternoon.

Diamond Head State Park is opening from 6am to 6pm. Walk-ins pay a $1 admission, while it is $5 per carload. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or after 1pm. If this is on your vacation agenda, bring comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and some company. Flashlights are handy, and towels can help block out the sun. You may even want to bring binoculars, after all, the view from the top isn’t bad at all.

There are many places to visit while on Oahu, and luckily, you don’t have to pick only one. The real problem lies In knowing where to start.

Those who want to start on the edges of Oahu, and work their way in should look at visiting Laie. The Polynesian Cultural Center calls this part of Honolulu home. At this center, you can visit seven villages, with each representing a different Polynesian cultures. If you stay until evening, you can participate in an exciting multicultural luau. You can find Hukilao Beach, perfect for those looking to avoid crowds and enjoy the beach at peace. While in Laie, you may want to pass Hukilau Café or Romy’s Shrimp for some truly delicious local cuisine.

Kailua is another hotspot you should visit while on Oahu. Be sure to take the Pali Highway and stop at the Pali Lookout. The view of the entire windward side is breathtaking, and you’ll definitely want to take pictures. In fact, Jimi Hendrix wrote a song called the Pali Gap because of this stunning sight. There is also footage of him walking around the viewing platform, struggling to fight off the strong winds. Since you’re heading, bring your bathing suit and visit the world-famous Lanikai Beach. This beach offers spectacular views of the sunrise, with glowing sands and a few small islands. Lanikai consistently ranks in the top 10 beaches of the world.

These two places are just a few of Oahu’s hotspots. Don’t forget to research all you can do on Oahu to truly have the vacation of a lifetime.