One of our favorite things to do on vacation is take pictures. We want to document our memories and have some lasting images of the fun times that we had while on our adventures. So whether you’re using a smartphone or a fancy camera with a tripod and all of the accessories, check out some of the best spots for photos in Oahu!
Laniakea Beach
The North Shore of Oahu, also known as Turtle Beach, is home to turtles year round. If you want to see this Hawaiian marine life in its natural habitat, then take the hour trek out of Waikiki to this photo-ready beach. On any given afternoon, there tons of turtles basking in the sun on the sand and playing in the lush green algae in the calm and shallow water. You’ll find turtles here year round, however, they are easier to find in the summer, spring, and fall when the waves are not as rough. Plan on spending the early evening here after the turtles have gone home so that you can catch a glimpse of the amazing sunsets that provide some great shots too!
Maunawili Falls
If you consider yourself a more adventurous photographer and don’t mind trekking a bit for that perfect shot, then check out Maunawili Falls. You’ll hike through an extremely muddy section of trail, so bring proper shoes and bug repellent in addition to your photo gear. At the other end you will be rewarded with views of a gorgeous waterfall in a picturesque forest. The hike is only about 3 miles and you can also swim here if you get there early enough and it isn’t overrun with locals. It’s best to bring your waterproofing camera gear, too!
Sunset Beach
If you want to get some iconic surf shots, this is the beach for you. You’ll definitely see some towering and powerful waves year round since this is home to some of the world’s best surfing competitions. You can get great shots from the shore and only venture into the water if you’re an experienced swimmer or surfer as the waves are pretty rough. You’ll also be able to get great landscape shots and sunset shots if you stick around after the sun goes down. The nearby surftown Haleiwa is also great for people-watching shots and the occasional celebrity sighting at this famous surf destination.
Hanuma Bay
If you love to snorkel and didn’t get enough underwater shots while you were on the Dolphin tour, then check out Hanuma Bay. Home to some of the best snorkeling location on the planet, this is one place where you’ll definitely want to bring your underwater camera. The calm waters in this area allow visitors to get great shots of this marine life paradise. And don’t forget the views from the top of the hill where you can see the whole bay. It is truly breathtaking!
Mount Tantalus
Not only is the Tantalus/Round Top area an awesome location for shooting from an overlook to see the entire city, it’s also a great place to take some night shots. From this vantage point, you will have a beautiful view of Honolulu, Diamond Head, Punchbowl Crater, Waikiki, and downtown Honolulu. While you’re up there, you’ll want to visit Pu’u Ualaka’a State Park because there are some great vantage points and you’ll definitely get some amazing shots. Although any time of day is great, get up there before the sun goes down for some sunset shots and stay for the glittering views of the city skyline with the ocean in the distance.
Now that you have some great ideas for photography spots, get out there and enjoy your Hawaii vacation!
