Best Oahu Photoshoot Locations
Hawaii’s island of Oahu is a photographer’s dream destination, offering a variety of breathtaking landscapes and seascapes. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur, there are countless opportunities to take some stunning photos of the island. Whether it’s at the beach or a vista in a lush valley, there’s so much to see on Oahu.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the best Oahu photoshoot locations.
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Hawaii, known for its golden sands, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets. Located in Honolulu, Waikiki Beach is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
The beach is surrounded by high-rise hotels and resorts, creating a unique skyline that can be captured in your photos. Take a stroll along the beachfront and capture shots of surfers riding the waves, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and the famous Diamond Head crater in the distance. Whether you’re looking to capture the Honolulu skyline or the beach itself, it’s a great destination for photographers.
As one of the most popular beaches in the world, Waikiki Beach attracts millions of visitors every year. For those staying in hotels in the area, Waikiki Beach’s convenient location and easy accessibility make it an ideal place to relax and enjoy all that the beach has to offer. However, visitors should expect large crowds, especially during peak tourist season, as the shoreline is often packed with people soaking up the sun and enjoying the great views.
Waikiki Beach History & Duke Kahanamoku
Duke Kahanamoku, also known as the “Father of Surfing,” was a legendary Hawaiian athlete and actor who popularized the sport of surfing and brought it to the world stage. His connection to Waikiki Beach runs deep, as this iconic stretch of sand and surf was not only his home and playground but also the birthplace of modern surfing.
Duke’s incredible skills and charismatic personality drew crowds of locals and tourists alike to Waikiki, where he would ride the waves with grace and ease, demonstrating the art of surfing in its purest form. Today, Waikiki Beach remains a mecca for surfers and beachgoers, and the legacy of Duke Kahanamoku continues to inspire and captivate people from all over the world.
Diamond Head Lookout
Located at the end of Diamond Head Road, the Diamond Head Lookout offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the famous Diamond Head crater. From here, you can capture stunning panoramic shots of the coastline and Waikiki Beach. The lookout is accessible by car or on foot, and it’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
There’s a short 0.8-mile steep hike to get even better views of the area if you’re up to it.
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is a protected marine sanctuary located on the far eastern tip of Oahu. The bay’s turquoise waters and coral reefs offer a unique underwater photography experience. Snorkelers and scuba divers can capture shots of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. If you prefer to stay on land, you can capture shots of the bay’s stunning cliffs and coastline from the lookout point.
Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is a serene and picturesque location on the east side of Oahu. It spans over 400 acres and features an impressive collection of tropical plants, a huge variety of palm trees, many different kinds of ti, and a variety of orchids, bromeliads, and water lilies.
The botanical garden offers plenty of opportunities for nature and landscape photographers to capture the island’s beauty. The gardens are well-manicured and perfectly arranged, making it easy to capture stunning close-up shots of the plant life. The tranquil waters of the garden’s lake provide a perfect backdrop for landscape photographers, with the Koʻolau Mountains towering in the background.
Makapu’u Point Lookout
Makapu’u Point Lookout is located on the southeastern coast of Oahu and offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The lookout is accessible by car, and there’s a short hike to the top. From the top, you can capture shots of the ocean and the surrounding coastline. If you’re lucky, you may even spot humpback whales during the winter season.
Byodo-In Temple
Located in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, the Byodo-In Temple is a replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist temple in Japan. The temple’s lush gardens, tranquil koi ponds, and towering mountain backdrop offer a serene setting for photos. Visitors can also ring the temple’s sacred bell for good luck and capture shots of the bell tower.
Lanikai Pillbox (Kaiwa Ridge Trail)
The Lanikai Pillbox Hike, also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, is a popular and scenic trail located on the east side of Oahu. The hike is relatively short, only about 1.5 miles round trip, but offers some of the best views on the island.
At the top of the trail, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Lanikai Beach, Kailua Beach, and the surrounding turquoise waters. The pillboxes, which were once used as military bunkers during World War II, provide a unique and rustic backdrop for photoshoots.
The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is a must-do for nature lovers and photographers alike. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels. The hike is particularly beautiful during sunrise or sunset when the sky is painted with a stunning array of colors.
Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000-acre private nature reserve located on the northeastern coast of Oahu. The ranch offers a variety of landscapes, including lush forests, rugged mountains, and rolling pastures. The ranch has been featured in many Hollywood movies and TV shows, including Jurassic Park, Lost, and Hawaii Five-0. Visitors can take guided tours of the ranch and capture shots of the stunning scenery.
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is a world-renowned surf spot located on the North Shore of Oahu. It’s famous for its big waves and stunning sunsets, making it a popular spot for surfers and photographers alike. During the winter months, the waves can reach up to 30 feet, attracting some of the world’s best surfers to compete in the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing.
Aside from the surfing competitions, Sunset Beach is also an excellent location for photography. The golden hour at Sunset Beach is particularly stunning, with the sun setting behind the palm trees and the waves crashing against the shore.
Koko Crater/Kokohead Lookout
Koko Crater, also known as Koko Head, is a volcanic cone that offers some of the best panoramic views on Oahu. The hike up to the Koko Crater Summit is challenging, with steep inclines and over 1,000 steps to climb. But the effort is well worth it, as hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of Hanauma Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
The Kokohead Lookout, which can be reached by car, provides an equally impressive view of the surrounding area.
Both the Koko Crater Summit and Kokohead Lookout are popular locations for photoshoots, offering unique and breathtaking backdrops for pictures. The Koko Crater Summit is particularly beautiful during sunrise, when the sky is painted with warm colors, while the Kokohead Lookout is ideal for sunset photoshoots.
It’s important to note that the hike up to the Koko Crater Summit is challenging and not recommended for beginners. Hikers should wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as there is no shade on the trail.
Boat Tours
Boat tours offer some of the most breathtaking and unique views of Oahu, making them an ideal location for a memorable photoshoot. The island’s rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters provide a stunning backdrop that is best experienced from the water. Whether you’re looking to capture the beauty of Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, or the secluded coves and bays along the North Shore, a boat tour can provide the perfect vantage point.
One of the best things about boat tours is the variety of experiences they offer. For example, you can choose from a luxury catamaran tour, a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe tour, or a thrilling speedboat ride. Some tours even include opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring hidden coves and beaches, allowing you to capture unique shots that you won’t find anywhere else.
Another advantage of boat tours is the flexibility they offer. You can choose from a range of tour durations and departure times, making it easy to fit a photo shoot into your schedule. Plus, many tours offer onboard amenities like refreshments and entertainment, ensuring that you and your photography team are comfortable and relaxed throughout the experience.
Oahu Boat Tours with Ocean Joy Cruises
If you’re looking to capture stunning photos of Oahu’s breathtaking scenery, consider booking a boat tour with Ocean Joy Cruises. Our experienced crew will take you on a journey along the island’s beautiful coastline.
We offer a range of tour options, including sunset dinner cruises and private charters, to ensure that you have the perfect experience for your photoshoot. Our sunset dinner cruise is a romantic and picturesque way to capture the beauty of Oahu as the sun sets over the horizon. For a more exclusive and tailored photoshoot experience, consider booking a private charter with us. Our private charters offer customizable itineraries and can accommodate groups of up to 49 passengers. You’ll have the flexibility to choose your own departure time, route, and activities, ensuring that you get the shots you want.
What is the best time of day for photography on Oahu?
Early in the morning or late evening is great due to sunrise and sunset. It creates some amazing lighting for your photos. However, you can take great photos any time of day on Oahu.
Bring Your Camera & Capture Oahus Beauty!
Oahu is a photographer’s paradise, with a wealth of stunning locations to capture the island’s natural beauty. From the turquoise waters of Lanikai Beach to the rugged coastline of Sunset Beach, Oahu has something for everyone. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur with a smartphone, the island’s breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture provide endless opportunities to create beautiful images. So pack your camera, explore the island’s best photoshoot locations, and capture Oahu’s beauty for yourself!