Diamond Head, also known by its Hawaiian name Leʻahi, is a prominent landmark in eastern skyline of Honolulu, on the Island of Oahu, Hawaii. This is a volcanic tuff cone estimated to have formed approximately 500,000 years ago during a single, brief eruption. The symmetrical crater, spanning over 350 acres.
The creation of Diamond Head is a dynamic volcanic processes that have shaped the Hawaiian Islands. Unlike the more common shield volcanoes found throughout the archipelago, Diamond Head is an example of a tuff cone. Such formations occur when hot magma comes into contact with cold ocean water, resulting in a steam explosion that propels ash and fine particles into the air. These materials then fall back to earth and cement together, forming the steep, compact crater walls characteristic of a tuff cone.
Studies indicate that the eruption that created Diamond Head was relatively short-lived, possibly lasting only a few days. The explosive event shot cinder and fine ash into the sky, which upon settling, formed the solidified tuff. Erosion over the millennia sculpted the slopes and contours that give Diamond Head its distinctive silhouette.
Despite its name, the volcano does not contain any actual diamonds. The moniker came from 19th century British sailors who mistakenly identified the calcite crystals embedded in the rock as diamonds. These sparkling calcite deposits, which are reflective under sunlight, led to the perpetuation of this misnomer.
Today, Diamond Head is celebrated as a national natural landmark and a State Monument. In the early 20th century, the United States military recognized its strategic importance for coastal defense. A complex of bunkers and artillery placements were installed within the crater, remnants of which are still visible to hikers who trek the well-maintained trail to the summit.
The 0.8-mile hike to the top of Diamond Head is one of Oahu’s most popular tourist activities and offers panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. The trail to the summit includes a combination of steep stairs, tunnels, and old military lookouts, making the summit accessible to visitors of diverse abilities.
