USA 2004

Diamond Head, Weimea Falls Park & Dole Plantage

The day before, we decide to get up very early again today so we can see all the remaining sights one after another.

We set off around seven, buy a few donuts (again) at a supermarket on the way to Diamond Head, and are then ready to start the climb to the crater rim around eight.

We’re not the only ones making our way up at such an early hour. Still, the climb—which starts on a paved path, then transitions to a trail made of natural stones, and ends with a system of tunnels and stairs—isn’t as difficult as we’d expected. We reach the top in just under 30 minutes, enjoy the beautiful view, take a few photos, of course, and are back at the car in another 20 minutes to drive in the opposite direction, northwest, to Weimea Falls Park.

Contrary to what the guidebook says, admission to Weimea Falls Park costs not $24 but only $8, plus a $2 parking fee. We’re happy about this, since we were actually prepared to pay the higher price. The park features a wide variety of plants and trees. The great thing is that the park is laid out in such a way that it looks as though the plants are growing naturally here, without having been planted by human hands.
At the far end of the park, the waterfall awaits us—the very waterfall that gives the park its name. You’re even allowed to swim in the small lake, which we naturally don’t want to miss out on.
On the way back, we have lunch in the entrance area; the prices are relatively reasonable (6–10 dollars for various hot dishes).

We drive back to Honolulu. The route takes us through coffee, pineapple, cacao, and banana plantations right along the road. We stop at the Dole Plantation to get a closer look at the cultivation and to buy a few souvenirs in the gift shop, which is flooded with tourists. We explore the park for $3.50 because the tram ride for $7.50 is too much for us. To our disappointment, we find that the park only features flowers and plants, but does not provide a detailed look at pineapple cultivation.

Photo gallery: Weimea Falls Park