There is something about being in Hawaii with your family that makes you want to hold on to every moment just a little bit longer. As a photographer from Oahu and work that spans both Hawaii and California, I’ve learned that the best family photos happen when you’re fully present in a place that invites you to slow down, connect, and play. I’ve gathered the top locations and tips for family photos in Hawaii that create an atmosphere just like this.
Top family photo locations on Oahu, Hawaii
With local roots in Oahu, the beauty of this place never ceases to amaze me. Here is a list of some of my favorite locations for family photos on Oahu.
Kailua Beach
Located on the island’s windward side, this beach is known for its soft white sand, turquoise water with steady winds, and gentle waves. The large crescent shape brings a beautiful dynamic to photos, giving families plenty of room to spread out and be themselves with the mountain views in the distance. Because Kailua Beach can get busy, I recommend scheduling your session for early morning or around sunset when the light is ideal and the crowds thin out. There’s ample parking at various points along the beach, which makes arrival stress-free when you’re wrangling little ones.
Kawainui Marsh
This area encompasses over 850 acres of wetland and is the largest one remaining in Hawaii as a sanctuary to endangered species. Beyond its environmental significance, the Kawainui Marsh is uniquely breathtaking for families. The paved trail is about 2.8 miles and considered an easy route for littler legs. And with the Koolau Mountain range as your backdrop and rich vegetation surrounding you, your kiddos can spot native birds while we capture authentic moments of their playful curiosity. However, the lack of shade means that sun protection is essential, bring hats, sunscreen, plenty of water, and consider scheduling your session in the early morning or late afternoon.
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens
Spanning 400 acres of lush tropical greenery, the name means “peaceful refuge,” and it lives up to the promise. Featuring plant varieties from eight different tropical locales, including the Philippines, Polynesia, and, of course, Hawaii, you and your kiddos will love the unique and diverse plant life. The gardens also have scenic viewpoints of the lake, Ko’olau Mountains, and island landscapes, ideal for vast and varied backdrops. Plus, admission to the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens is free, making it an accessible choice for a day of fun and memories with your people. Just be sure to secure your photography permit at least three weeks in advance (you can find more about that here!).
Kualoa Regional Park
As you head towards the North Shore, Kualoa Regional Park features white sandy beaches with breathtaking views of the Ko’olau Mountains. The large grassy lawn leading to the beach is ideal for picnics or interactive family activities like frisbee, which means built-in movement and play for natural imagery. As a photographer, I love how spacious this park is; there’s room for kids to run wild while the iconic shore creates an effortless backdrop that is quintessentially Hawaiian, offering the best of both worlds: mountain and ocean views.
Your home
Yes, your home! This is one of my favorite locations as a family photographer because it is the most authentic setting for your family and the life you live every day. Your photos here will become the perfect reminder of the space of love and laughter you’ve created together. And no need to worry about making it spick and span. We’ll just need one or two locations with lots of natural light and that authentic, so-you feeling.
Tips for Family Photos in Hawaii
While Hawaii is a dream destination, it’s important to keep in mind some of the nuances and details of this beautiful place while traveling and taking family photos with respect for the land.
Photography permits
Permits are required for professional photography at most locations in Hawaii, and often have an additional fee, starting at around $20. The approval process for these permits can take time, so be sure to reach out a few months in advance to book your session. I’ll handle all the permit logistics so you can focus on showing up ready to play with your people.
Timing your session
When choosing a beach location, keep in mind that Hawaii’s weather varies greatly during the day. With the ocean breeze, beach locations are often windy, with winds reaching their peak toward the afternoon. Sunrise or early morning sessions are often recommended for beach locations for gentle winds and fewer crowds.
Staying mindful of the environment
Hawaii is a beautiful place with rich history, culture, and natural beauty that should be treated with as much care and respect as possible. Whether at the beach, in a garden, or on the trail, do what you can to leave no trace. This means taking all trash with you and leaving the surrounding nature untouched and on the island. So please, let these images be the best keepsake of your time in Hawaii, and leave the rocks, sand, shells, flowers, and other natural elements safe in their home.
Ready to book your family photos in Hawaii?
What makes Hawaii so special for family photography isn’t just the dramatic landscapes or perfect light (although those things certainly help). It’s how this place invited you to slow down, be present, and truly connect with each other. As a family photographer in Hawaii, I know these locations well and understand how to help your family feel comfortable and have fun. Get in touch here to capture this chapter of your family’s story.
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