Diamond Head Beach Park

Diamond Head Beach Park sits at the base of the iconic Diamond Head Crater on Oahu's south shore. This narrow beach is bordered by sea cliffs and a rocky reef, making it less ideal for swimming but a popular spot for surfing, snorkeling during calm conditions, and tidepooling. The park offers scenic coastal views and is located just a short drive from Waikiki.

Diamond Head Beach Park, Oahu

Diamond Head Beach Park (view panorama)× , an extinct volcanic crater at the eastern end of Waikiki. The park includes two acres of sea cliffs on the south slope of the crater between Beach Road and the Diamond Head Lighthouse.

The beach here is narrow and fronted by a rocky shelf. The swimming conditions are poor because of the coral reef, but surfers find an uncrowded paradise here compared to Waikiki Beach. Snorkeling is also good if the waves aren't too high. Diamond Head Beach is also a popular tidepool excursion site.

Key Features of Diamond Head Beach Park

Diamond Head Beach Park is located on the foothills of the famous Diamond Head Crater
Narrow beach is backed by sea cliffs, with a shoreline composed of rocky shelf and coral reef formations
Beach is favored by surfers looking for a quieter alternative to crowded Waikiki
Limited swimming due to the rocky bottom and waves
Snorkeling can be enjoyable during calm surf conditions
No public facilities or lifeguards
Parking is limited to a narrow roadside area along Diamond Head Road

Reviews and Comments:


I didn't really feel comfortable here. The views are nice, but that's about it. I came here on a weekday and as I was walking down the road that leads to the beach, I noticed many cars parked on the side of the road and guys sitting in them. I was wondering why they just sit there in their cars doing nothing. But then I noticed some of them were smoking (things other than cigarettes). They didn't have surfboards with them, so I guess they just use this area as a hangout spot. There was almost no parking available on a weekday, so I assume that during weekends it gets even busier. I wouldn't drive down this road because it's narrow and there isn't much room to turn around the car once you reach the dead end. I would say it's a beach park to skip. I don't even know why it's called a beach park since it doesn't have any facilities.
Lea, Thu Aug 09, 2012


Considering the world-famous name "Diamond Head" I thought this is a beach that we must visit. Wrong! LOL. There isn't much there to see or do and parking was a hassle. The parking is on a steep and narrow dead-end road and getting out of there was a challenge. It seems most of the people who come here are surfers.
Matt, Fri Dec 02, 2011

Frequently Asked Questions

📍Where is Diamond Head Beach Park located?

It is located along Diamond Head Road on Oahu's south shore, at the base of the Diamond Head Crater and just a short drive from Waikiki.

🏄‍♂️Is Diamond Head Beach good for surfing?

Yes, the beach is a lesser-known surf spot popular with locals, offering reef breaks with consistent waves when the conditions are right.

🐠Can I snorkel at Diamond Head Beach Park?

Snorkeling is possible during low surf when water visibility is good. The reef is shallow and rocky, so caution is advised.

🚗Is parking available at the beach?

Limited roadside parking is available along Diamond Head Road, typically near the beach access trail. Spaces fill quickly on weekends.

🚿Are there public facilities or lifeguards?

No, there are no restrooms, showers, or lifeguards at Diamond Head Beach Park. Visitors should bring their own supplies and exercise caution.