Ongoing Safety Improvements at Diamond Head
HONOLULU – If you’re planning a trip to O‘ahu this spring, be aware that Diamond Head State Monument will experience temporary closures throughout March and April due to the Diamond Head Rockfall Mitigation Project. These closures are essential for stabilizing loose rocks around the Kāhala Tunnel, ensuring long-term visitor safety.
Full Park Closures
During the following dates, Diamond Head State Monument will be completely closed, and no visitors will be allowed entry:
| Dates | Days of the Week |
|---|---|
| March 4-7 | Tuesday – Friday |
| March 11-14 | Tuesday – Friday |
| April 1-4 | Tuesday – Friday |
| April 8-11 | Tuesday – Friday |
| April 14-17 | Monday – Thursday |
Visitors can still access the park during Spring Break (March 17-28), but contractors will be working overnight from 6:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. Security personnel will be stationed at the park’s entry points during these hours.
Partial Park Closures (Early 2 p.m. Closure)
On select Mondays and one Friday, the park will close early at 2 p.m. to accommodate ongoing work:
| Dates | Day of the Week |
|---|---|
| March 3 | Monday |
| March 10 | Monday |
| March 31 | Monday |
| April 7 | Monday |
| April 14 | Monday |
| April 18 | Friday |
Project Timeline and Safety Measures
This mitigation project, which started on January 6, 2025, is expected to continue through July 2025. The total contract cost for the project is $5,595,200.
Curt Cottrell, administrator of the DLNR Division of State Parks (DSP), emphasized the importance of these safety improvements:
“The safety of our visitors and employees is our top priority. While the closures may cause some inconvenience, the rockfall mitigation work is critical to maintaining a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone who visits Diamond Head State Monument.”
For the most up-to-date information on the project and park access, visit the official Diamond Head State Monument page.
What to Do on O‘ahu While Diamond Head is Closed
If you were hoping to hike Diamond Head during your visit but find yourself affected by the temporary closures, don’t worry—O‘ahu offers plenty of other incredible experiences. Whether you’re looking for scenic hikes, historical sites, or relaxing beach days, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your time on the island.
For those still eager to explore the outdoors, trails like Makapu‘u Lighthouse and Manoa Falls offer breathtaking views and lush landscapes. If history is more your style, visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial provides a powerful look into the past. And of course, no trip to O‘ahu is complete without some time on the beach—whether it’s the pristine waters of Lanikai Beach or the lively atmosphere of Waikīkī.
If you’re looking for more ways to experience O‘ahu without spending a fortune, check out this list of free and cheap things to do on O‘ahu for even more great options during your stay.
