DIAMOND HEAD

cape and celebrated landmark, in Honolulu county, southeastern Oahu Island, Hawaii, U.S., at the southern edge of Waikiki. An extinct volcanic crater, it was used by the ancient Hawaiians as a burial ground. It became known as Diamond Head in the early 19th century when British sailors mistook some volcanic crystals for diamonds. Leahi Point, its highest spot (761 feet ), is on the western slope. The interior of the crater (diameter 0.5 mile ), visible from Wilhelmina Rise or Maunalani Heights and accessible by road tunnel, is part of the Fort Ruger military installation and is used for small-arms firing practice. There are exclusive residential areas on its eastern and western slopes.