Diamond Head Hike if also doing Volcano NP?
 

We are planning a trip to Hawaii June/July 2010 - 1 week on Oahu, 1 week Big Island and 1 week Maui (25th Anniversary celebration). Hiking Diamond Head isn't that appealing to me (hot, dusty, dry, etc) but others in my group (another couple) may want to do it. We are planning to go to Volcano NP on Big Island for 2 days and do lots of the hikes there. Is the Diamond Head hike not to be missed? Our other plans for Oahu include Polynesian Cultural Ctr, Pearl Harbor, North Shore drive, snorkeling, golf, beach, etc. Thanks for your help!

<<<the Diamond Head hike not to be missed? >>>

Absolutely, it is miss-able. I'm glad we did it once, but it's just a walk, about 30-45 minutes. It is fairly rocky and sometimes steep. The views can be good, but they also may not be (they weren't the day we were there). I'd skip it.

I enjoyed both Diamond Head and VNP. What I'd skip is the Polynesian Cultural Center. The key with Diamond head is to get an early start, and of course pick a clear day.

Don't skip Diamond Head hike. Takes about 1 hour roundtrip. Great view from the top.

Also don't miss Polynesian Cultural Center. They have the best Polynesian entertainment in Hawaii.

Lots of info:

http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...trip-to-hi.cfm

There are better hikes on the island. If you are staying in Waikiki the other couple could easily take a bus to Diamond Head and do it on their own.

Do not miss PCC. While I do not prefer the luau or day time entertainment, the evening show is AWESOME. Remember, they are closed on Sunday.

Manoa Falls is a nice hike - easy and you see a waterfall. Maunawilli Falls is another hike on the Windward side (where I live) that is very tropical and nice.

Denise