Kailua Beach
Kailua Beach is a stunning beach located in Kailua on the East side of Oahu. I love this beach for family photoshoots because there is plenty of space for kids to run around and multiple parking lots make this beach easily accessible. Sunrise sessions here are unbeatable! Kailua Beach is located about 30 minutes from Honolulu.
Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is gorgeous! I love this beach for couples and maternity photoshoots. This beach is located around the corner from Kailua Beach on the East side of Oahu. Sunrise sessions here are breathtaking! Heads up: street parking is the only option and can be limited during the day. Lanikai Beach is about a 30 minute drive from Honolulu.
Kualoa Park
If the magnificent Hawaii mountains is your preference, then Kualoa Park is the perfect spot! Located about 40 minutes from Honolulu, Kualoa Park sits across the street from the famous Kualoa Ranch. If you can't decide between photos in front of the mountains or on one of Hawaii's beautiful beaches, then you're in luck! Kualoa park also has a beach which overlooks Mokoli'i (also known as Chinaman's hat).
Halona Beach Cove
Halona Beach Cove is located on the Eastside of Oahu about 25 minutes from Honolulu. Located below the Halona Blowhole Lookout, this small beach is full of character and even has a little cave. This fun photo spot is best for sunrise photoshoots. The path to get down to the beach from the parking lot is a little steep and rocky and may be challenging for some individuals.
Sandy Beach
Sandy Beach is located on the Southeast corner of Oahu about 20 minutes from Honolulu. This beautiful beach is great for sunrises and sunsets. The lava rock on Sandy Beach truly makes this beach stand out. Sandy Beach is a popular beach for surfers thanks to larger waves and a powerful wave break.
Ka'a'awa Beach
Ka'a'wa beach is a quieter beach located just north of Kualoa Park on the Eastside of Oahu. Ka'a'wa beach is about 40 minutes from Honolulu. This picturesque beach is popular for photos thanks to the dramatic mountain and tall palm trees that can be seen in the background. Street parking is the best option as the small parking lot only accommodates 2-3 vehicles.
Ko'olina Lagoons
The gorgeous lagoons at Ko'olina are a convenient location for families and couples staying at the Four Seasons, Aulani, the Marriott at Ko'olina, and Ko'olina Resort. Located on the Westside of Oahu about 30 minutes from Honolulu, the Ko'olina lagoons are beautiful and well-maintained making them a great spot for photos.
Waikiki
Although Waikiki Beach is convenient for many visitors to the island, this beautiful stretch of beach is often pretty crowded which is not ideal for photoshoots. However, if Waikiki Beach is your preference, I suggest a sunrise shoot to avoid the crowds. I suggest Duke Kahanamoku Beach which is the stretch of beach in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village and the Hale Koa Hotel.