Diamond Head - Diamond Head Hawaii Bashny.Net

Recognized attraction of Hawaii is located on the eastern edge of the shoreline of Waikiki and is a volcanic crater called Diamond Head.

Diamond Head, which is translated into Russian as Diamond or Diamond Head, it sounds like the Hawaiian Le'ahi means "forehead (lea) yellowfin tuna (ahi)». Crater got its English name in the early 18th century, when British sailors saw the light sparkling crystals of calcite and thought that diamonds are found.

This wide crater in the shape of a saucer was formed during a single explosive eruption.

Diamond Head - part of a whole complex of craters resulting from the eruption. Together, they are known to geologists as the Volcanic Gonolulskaya ridge consequence volcanic eruption Koolau. Gonolulskaya volcanic ridge was formed through a series of volcanic eruptions that created many local "attractions", namely mountain Oahu's, including the crater punchbag, Ganauma Bay, Koko Head, and Manana Island.

Diamond Head, as well as other craters Gonolulskoy ridges, much younger than the main mass of the mountain chain Koolau. While the Koolau volcano about 2, 6 million years old, Diamond Head, according to most experts, about 200 000 years, and finally extinguished volcano about 150 000 years ago.

The eruption, which resulted in, and there was a crater, it is likely short-lived and did not last more than a few days. According to experts, it was a powerful explosion. When the crater was originally formed, the sea level is thought to have been higher, and an explosion occurred on the coral reef. Another factor in the formation of the crater could be exiting magma coming into contact with groundwater. The relatively short period of eruption is thought to explain the nature of the symmetric cone crater Diamond Head. Since the type of the many eruptions that formed the Diamond Head and tends to be monogenetic, geologists have no reason to believe that the crater ever "come to life" again.

When the United States took over Hawaii in 1898, the protection of the harbor has become a major challenge. One of the main forts, Fort Ruger, was built in the crater of Diamond Head. The observation deck was built on top of the crater in 1910 to provide targeted surveillance and an underground four-level complex was built within the walls of the crater, as a command post. 580-foot tunnel was dug through the wall of the crater, to provide easier access to the Fort. Batteries guns were located in the crater since it provides complete cover-up and protection from invading enemies. The observation deck and underground complex is now abandoned with the advent of radar, command post but remains still present along the walls of the crater.

Diamond Head - now a popular tourist destination and hiking route length of 1, 1 kilometer tour goes to the edge of the crater. Signs at the beginning of the trail is said that the campaign is a 1, 5-2 hours round-trip, and recommend that travelers take along enough water. A dirt road winds its way over rough rock, then climbing up 74 steps through a tunnel and another steep climb of 99 steps long. Next is a small lit tunnel with a narrow winding staircase (30 steps), which displays on the coastal artillery observation deck built in 1908.

In 1975 there was filmed a TV quiz "game Diamond Head", which five times a week for six months was broadcast on American television.

The territory of the Diamond Head was also used during the filming of the cult American television series Lost (Lost), winner of the Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. The series was filmed almost entirely on the island of Oahu.

The height of the top of the 231 m diameter - 1073 meters. Ancient Hawaiians sacrifices on its western slopes of the bloodthirsty god of war Ky.

On this island is the capital of the State of Hawaii - Honolulu, modern metropolis, intricately combining the characteristic features of the cities of the East and West: the realm of glass and concrete, wide highway impressive skyscrapers and crowds of people hurrying. Although the island is hardly suitable for those who want to get away from civilization and spend your vacation in a secluded peaceful place, fans of various entertainment and nightlife will be delighted by the variety of choice that Oahu has to offer.

Entertainment program on the island includes a wide variety of leisure activities, from the closer western travelers visit museums and theaters to exotic - Chinese lanterns parades and traditional representations with dancing hula. Honolulu gourmets will find a whole scattering of amazing restaurants specializing in a variety of cuisines. Fans of shopping will love the many shops and boutiques.

And all the others will appreciate the exceptional views from the local hills, ideal city beaches and wonderful parks, as well as the amazing diversity of the local architecture. Among the many cultural and historical attractions of the city highlights is the only palace in the United States Iolani Palace, the former residence of King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani and the local Capitol, architectural style which plays stylistically features Hawaiian scenery.

Almost all the tourist infrastructure of the island and all the hotels are located in Waikiki, the resort resembles a cross between Miami Beach and Tokyo. Here, guests will never be bored, because Waikiki, full of chic restaurants, enticing cafes, diverse shops and nightclubs illuminating the neighborhood never sleeps and is always ready to offer entertainment for all tastes. However, in order to experience the true spirit of Hawaii, you definitely need to get beyond it: to wander through the bustling bazaars motley Chinatown Honolulu, go hiking on one of the mountain trails Tantalus and spend time in Haleiwa, this paradise of surfers.