Oahu is often called a photographer’s paradise, with tumbling waterfalls, palm tree-lined beaches and stunning cultural landmarks.
If you’re looking for a place that will help you have the content you’ve always dreamed of, this is the place. We’re sharing the 10 best spots on the island to take photos, with many of them being easily accessible and free! Your feed will be on another level in no time.
All of the places on our list are safe, legal and accessible to the public. Remember to help keep Oahu beautiful by staying on official trails and being respectful of off-the-beaten-path and sacred spaces.
Read on to find out the top 10 most instagrammable spots in Oahu.
#1: Manoa Falls
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If this 150-foot waterfalls gives you Jurassic Park vibes, it’s for good reason! Scenes from Jurassic World were filmed there.
Just a 15-minute drive from Waikiki, a short trail takes you to over an otherworldly bridge and past towering jungle trees to the base of the iconic falls. At less than 2 miles round-trip, it’s a great trail for most skill levels, including beginner hikers. It can be muddy, so this isn’t a place to take fashion photos in heels.
Bring some sneakers and a rain jacket and you’re all set for an awe-inspiring lifestyle photoshoot!
#2: Eternity Beach
Nicknamed “Eternity Beach”, the cove next to Halona blowhole has endless opportunities for photos. One might say you could spend… an eternity… taking photos. Too far?
Just off the parking lot, take in views of Halona blowhole spewing ocean spray and the crater Koko Head towering behind the highway. Head down to the cove for uniquely framed portraits in the lava tube, or stay on the cliffs for a dynamic background of black lava rock and vibrant teal waters behind.
But always watch out for rogue waves while taking photos near the coast. If the rocks are wet, it’s best to head back to the sand. This area has very limited parking available, so we recommend visiting early in the morning on weekdays.
#3: Kaka’ako
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Searching for more of an urban scene? Look no further than Honolulu’s Kaka’ako district.
The neighborhood is Hawaii’s home for the annual POW! WOW!, an international mural arts festival. Around every corner here you’ll find stunning colorful creations from local artists. It’s the perfect spot for a keyed up fashion shoot or inspiring street photos.
And after you’re done, enjoy a craft beer or some shopping at one of the neighborhood’s trendy breweries or boutiques!
#4: Diamond Head
When people think of Oahu, they often think of Diamond Head State Monument. The infamous crater sits on the Eastern side of Waikiki, towering above the buildings and the surf.
Whether you photograph it from ocean, from the air or from the trail that runs along its rim, it’s pretty much impossible to take a bad shot. If you have the stamina for it, we highly recommend hiking up to its peak to take in views of the whole city! Bring lots of water and sunscreen, since this trail is in full sun.
Otherwise, Kapiolani Regional Park also allows for some stellar views of Diamond Head from sea level. Either way, you really can’t go wrong.
#5: Lanikai Pillbox
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A hiker’s favorite, Lanikai Pillbox combines the urban art scene of Kaka’ako with the fantastic ocean views of Diamond Head trail.
Lanikai Beach is known for its sparkling aqua waters and pristine white sands. But you know it’s Lanikai when you see Nā Mokulua, the two iconic islands off the coast in the background.
The pillbox trail adds a little edginess to the otherwise flawless background that is Lanikai. With its graffiti-embellished landmark at the top of the ridge, it’s easy to see why many people hike it for the view every day. As another full-sun trail, make sure you have plenty of water and sunscreen.
#6: Waikiki Beach
Perhaps Oahu’s best-known destination for travelers and photo-takers, Waikiki Beach lives up to the hype.
Photos of professional surfers riding some of the world’s best longboard waves? Check. Photos living your best life sipping from a pineapple from Duke’s? Check. Sunset photos that will blow your friend’s minds? Check, check, check.
It’s all there for the taking at Waikiki Beach.
#7: Kualoa Regional Park
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Kualoa Ranch is another location used for Jurassic Park movies. In fact, more than 79 movies and TV shows have been filmed at Kualoa over the years.
There’s a reason creatives, like directors, keep coming back to this area again and again. It’s an insanely gorgeous backdrop!
With the Kualoa Mountains on one side, Mokoli’i Island sitting just off the coast on the other and plenty of gently swaying palms in between, you’ll have no trouble getting memorable photos here.
#8: Haleiwa Town
Famous for being the surf capital of the world, the laid-back feel of Haleiwa draws many away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki up to the island’s North Shore.
But there’s more to Haleiwa than just surfing. This quaint town is locked in time – literally. Any new buildings are required to match the same old-timey design of the rest of the town.
The arts flourish in this area, with plenty of options for shopping and galleries. While you’re in Haleiwa, make sure you get yourself a colorful shave ice! It makes for an adorable Instagram photo.
#9: Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
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Looking to connect with nature and take some outstanding photos all at once? Head up to Ho’oMaluhia Botanical Garden. A winding road takes you through 400 acres of lush island scenery, all at the base of Oahu’s majestic Ko’olau mountains.
Park at one of the garden’s many parking areas for the Instagram picnic of a lifetime. Take photos of the mountains reflecting in the lake and admire the area’s wealth of native Hawaiian plants and flowers.
#1: Byodo-In Temple
Also located at the base of the Ko’olau Mountains, the Byodo-In temple is a non-denominational Buddhist temple on Oahu’s windward side.
With ornately designed bridges and a striking red building, the perfectly manicured property would make anyone want to be a photographer to try to capture it in all its glory.
It’s a wonderful place to calm your mind as swans float by and experience a side of Oahu unlike any other. And of course, take some photos for Instagram while you’re at it!
Take a Tour to Some of the Most Instagrammable Spots in Oahu!
Many of the spots on this list are included in our circle-island food and sights tour, Island and You! Learn More.
