Many people think of Diamond Head State Monument as a national monument which it probably should be, it is truly the single most recognizable landmark in our state.  To me, Diamond Head is much more than a pretty view from Waikiki.  It's more than the Magnum P.I. shows made it out to be.  It's home to hundred of mongoose, endangered local birds and people who thrive on running, hiking and walking in and around it.  The photo above shows a picture of Black Point (taken from Diamond Head lookout), a sleepy private neighborhood where Tom Selleck (and I - no not together!) once lived.

One of the better small surf areas on Oahu is on the South Shore.  There are four lookouts you can see watch the whales from and you can drive right up to them.  Below,, there is a trail leading to one of the most beautiful beaches on Oahu where the surfers push off from.  On one side of the lookouts you can view the magnificent estate where Doris Duke the tobacco heiress and sometime friend of Imelda Marcos lived.

Diamond Head is just over 4 miles if you walk or run all the way around it.  It's got a shoulder for pedestrians and leads directly down to the Gold Coast of Waikiki and our biggest park, Kapiolani Park which is another haven for hikers, bikers and runners.  Kapiolani Park and Waikiki are directly behind me.  I am at the top of Diamond Head after having hiked in through the crater.  This hike is not for the weak, but is a relatively easy hike in terms of no special equipment being needed and it is realtively safe for all.

Triangle Park is on the East side of Diamond Head and home to numerous soccer teams of the 10 and under group in the fall.  It is also the starting point for many cyclists who ride scores of miles and return to this hub.

Kapiolani Community College is at the back of Diamond Head, featuring a wonderful culinary program among many others.

Real Estate in the Diamond Head are and Oceanfront land are at a premium here. Oceanfront homes usually begin around $2.5 million and go up to $25 million.  If you like luxury and the best of everything this is the place to live.  Ocean view properties run much less, starting at around $1.5 million and up depending on architecture, square footage and appointments.  It is difficult if not impossible to find anything, view or no view, tear down or better for under a million.  If you're looking under a $1million, and want to be in the area, then look closer to Kaimuki (behind Diamond Head), Kapahulu (northwest of Diamond Head) or consider a condo on the Gold Coast of Waikiki. 

Whatever you decide to buy, or where you decide to live, Hawaii has it all.