The Best Places to Take Photos on Oahu!

You may be asking yourself, “I’m vacationing to Honolulu, where are the best places to take pictures on Oahu?” I’ve lived and photographed here for almost 2 years and I have a small and incredible list of photo locations on Oahu to share with you. I love these places because parking is easy, the views are gorgeous, and the lighting is always incredible! As you can see from the family sessions, couples sessions, elopements, and maternity sessions below – these locations are truly perfect for your vacation photos on Oahu…

Secret Beach, Kapolei

Secret Beach in Kapolei is a personal favorite of mine. Its the ONLY beach on this list where you can catch the actual sunset in the evenings. Why? Its on the West-Side of the Island.

Description: Small Cove + Rocks + Palm Tree Backdrop

Best for: Weekday Evening Sessions

Session Types: Honeymooners, Couples, Families, Engagement, Elopements, Proposals

Adventure Level: Low – Medium, flat beach with some optional climbing on rocks if you’re up for an adventure

Makapu’u Beach Park, Waimanalo

Makapu’u Beach Park on Oahu’s East-Side is a treasure. Fun fact: its the location of the very first session I shot on Oahu! In the evenings Makapu’u has perfect even light making every angle flattering for photos.

Description: Lava Rocks + Crashing Waves + Mountain Views

Best for: Evening Sessions

Session Types: Honeymooners, Couples, Families, Engagement, Elopements, Proposals

Adventure Level: Low – Medium, some easy hills., optional rocky terrain and a beautiful flat beach

Waimanalo Bay Beach Park, Waimanalo

Waimanalo Bay Beach Park, also known as Sherwood Forest, is located on the East-Side of Oahu. This Oahu photo location has a lot of beautiful variety and is a no-brainer for your portrait session!

Description: Long Beach + Palm Trees + Mountain Views

Best for: Evening Sessions

Session Types: Honeymooners, Couples, Families, Engagement, Elopements, Proposals

Adventure Level: Low, flat paths and beach

Wai’alae Beach Park, Honolulu

Description: Beautiful Beach + Palm Trees + Greenery

Best for: Evening Sessions

Session Types: Honeymooners, Couples, Families, Engagement, Elopements, Proposals

Adventure Level: Low – Medium, its a 5-10 minute walk along the beach from the parking lot to where I like to start shooting

RACHEL JAY IS AN EXPERIENCED WEDDING, ENGAGEMENT, AND PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER SERVING ALL COUPLES AND FAMILIES IN HONOLULU, KAPOLEI, KAILUA AND BEYOND. Want to see more of our work? Check out our Pinterest boards for inspiration, or other blogs from our favorite venues.