Diamond Head got its name from calcite crystals that sailors mistook for diamonds
The southeast corner of Oahu is beautiful, and we took a weekend day to explore it.
First stop was Diamond Head lighthouse, which marks the finish line for the biennial Transpacific Yacht Race from L.A. to Honolulu. We passed just offshore of the lighthouse on the sail from Molokai to Oahu, so we enjoyed the different perspective of the view from land this time.
Enjoying a rest along the trail with a view of Koko Head, Koko Crater & Diamond Head
North along the Kaiwi State Historic Shoreline is Makapu’u Point. A trail winds up the hill and out to the Makapu’u lighthouse.
Great vista of the windward shore of Oahu from on top of Makapu’u Head
The trail features great views of Koko Head, Koko Crater and Diamond Head in the distance to the southwest. From the lighthouse we could see all the way across Molokai channel to Molokai & Lanai, over 20 miles away. We could even pick out our anchorage spot at Ilio Point. The reward at the summit is a fantastic overlook of Makapu’u Beach north to Kane’ohe Bay.
This part of the island is hot, sunny, and dry. By the end of our hike, we were definitely ready for a swim. Luckily, Makapu’u Beach was right around the corner and we happily jumped in to cool off and enjoy the waves.
The lovely Makapu’u Beach
