Diamond Head State Monument reopens today, after a nine-month closure. As was the case when Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve reopened, the experience will be quieter compared to pre-COVID visits, when visitor counts at both attractions hovered at about 3,000 on heavy foot-traffic days.

Given the ongoing public health threat, it’s good that plans are in the works for new occupancy limits at the monument, which features a 0.8-mile hike to a summit for sweeping views of Oahu’s southern coastline. Already in place are modified park hours: 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays, except Christmas and New Year’s Day. Parking and entry remain free for Hawaii residents.