The Best Photography Spots in Hawaii

Hawaii is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque places in the world. The stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural offerings make it a paradise for photographers.

With its diverse scenery, Hawaii offers endless opportunities for capturing breathtaking photos.

From the lush rainforests to the crystal-clear waters, there's no shortage of beauty to capture. In this article, we will explore the best photography spots in Hawaii.

Mauna Kea Summit - Hawaii Island
Mauna Kea Summit is one of the best places for astrophotography in the world. At an elevation of over 13,000 feet, the summit provides a clear view of the night sky.

The site is home to several world-class observatories, which makes it an ideal spot for stargazing and capturing images of the Milky Way. Visitors can also capture stunning shots of the sunrise and sunset from the summit.

Waikiki Beach - Oahu
Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular photography spots in Hawaii. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sand, which makes it an ideal spot for capturing stunning sunset shots.

Visitors can also capture amazing images of surfers riding the waves or take pictures of the iconic Diamond Head Crater in the background.

Haleakala National Park - Maui
Haleakala National Park is a photographer's dream destination. The park is home to the world's largest dormant volcano, which offers stunning panoramic views of the island.

Visitors can capture stunning shots of the sunrise and sunset from the summit of the volcano. The park is also home to several hiking trails that provide excellent photo opportunities, including the Pipiwai Trail, which leads to the Waimoku Falls.

Na Pali Coast - Kauai
The Na Pali Coast on Kauai is one of the most stunning landscapes in Hawaii. The coastline stretches for over 17 miles, and its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for landscape photography.

Visitors can capture stunning shots of the coastline from the Kalalau Trail, which is one of the most scenic hiking trails in the world.

Hanauma Bay - Oahu
Hanauma Bay is a popular snorkeling destination on Oahu, but it's also an excellent spot for photography. The bay is home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish and coral, which makes it an ideal spot for underwater photography.

Visitors can also capture stunning shots of the bay from the lookout point, which provides a panoramic view of the coastline.

Wailua Falls - Kauai
Wailua Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Hawaii. The falls are located on the east side of Kauai, and its picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for capturing stunning landscape shots.

Visitors can capture photos of the falls from several viewpoints, including the lookout point at the end of the road.

Iao Valley State Park - Maui
Iao Valley State Park is a hidden gem on Maui. The park is home to the iconic Iao Needle, which is a 1,200-foot tall rock formation that rises above the valley floor.

Visitors can capture stunning shots of the needle from several viewpoints, including the lookout point at the end of the trail. The park is also home to several hiking trails that provide excellent photo opportunities.

Pololu Valley Lookout - Hawaii Island
The Pololu Valley Lookout on Hawaii Island is one of the most stunning viewpoints in Hawaii.

The lookout provides a panoramic view of the valley and its lush surroundings, which makes it an ideal spot for landscape photography. Visitors can also capture stunning shots of the black sand beach at the bottom of the valley.

Makapu'u Point - Oahu
Makapu'u Point on Oahu is a stunning location for photography. The point is home to the Makapu'u Lighthouse, which provides a picturesque backdrop for capturing stunning sunset shots.

Visitors can also capture photos of the rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters from several viewpoints along the hiking trail.

Lanikai Beach - Oahu
Lanikai Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii. The beach is known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, which makes it an ideal spot for capturing stunning photos of the ocean.

Visitors can also capture shots of the Mokulua Islands, which provide a picturesque backdrop for the beach.

Kilauea Volcano - Hawaii Island
Kilauea Volcano on Hawaii Island is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The volcano provides a unique opportunity for capturing stunning photos of lava flows and volcanic activity.

Visitors can capture photos of the glowing lava from several viewpoints, including the Jaggar Museum and the Kalapana Lava Viewing Area.

Kualoa Ranch - Oahu
Kualoa Ranch on Oahu is a private nature reserve that offers stunning views of the island's diverse landscapes. The ranch is home to several movie sets, including Jurassic Park and Lost, which makes it an ideal spot for capturing cinematic shots.

Visitors can also capture photos of the stunning landscapes from several viewpoints along the hiking trails.

Papakolea Beach - Hawaii Island
Papakolea Beach on Hawaii Island is one of the few green sand beaches in the world.

The beach is known for its unique green sand, which is created by the presence of olivine crystals in the sand. Visitors can capture stunning shots of the green sand and the surrounding coastline from several viewpoints.

Waimea Canyon - Kauai
Waimea Canyon on Kauai is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific."

The canyon is over 10 miles long and 3,600 feet deep, and its colorful rock formations and lush vegetation make it an ideal spot for capturing stunning landscape photos. Visitors can also capture photos of the waterfall at the end of the canyon.

Hawaii is a photographer's paradise, and these are just a few of the best photography spots the islands have to offer.

Whether you're interested in capturing stunning landscapes, astrophotography, or underwater shots, Hawaii has something for everyone.

So grab your camera, head to Hawaii, and capture some of the most beautiful photos you'll ever take.

Other blog posts

See all