Waikiki Beach Portrait Locations

Listed below is our most commonly used locations for beach, park, sunset & sunrise photo sessions for families, couples and destination beach weddings. Starred locations are excellent alternative spots. These are just the most common locations.

Hawaii Hilton Village (click name to view Google Map)
A popular, close-in Waikiki location. Easy access, lots of different backgrounds in all directions, multiple shooting spots, direct sunset views, view of Diamond Head...and lots of people around. However, people are less of an issue than expected as I generally shoot out to sea. I can nearly always find an angle that has few if any people in the background and if there are they're just blurred tiny figures. The images below were all taken at the Hilton Village/Hale Koa location. *Best for morning or sunset sessions only.*
(See more example images from the Hawaiian Hilton Village here.)

Magic Island (click name to view Google Map)
Not really an island, but a great location nonetheless. Same characteristics as the Hilton Village above...but better. A very popular park with locals makes parking sometimes difficult on weekends (impossible if there is an event going on). But people in the background are rarely an issue. Tons of different looks/backgrounds, direct sunset views, family friendly, calm sandy beach, rock promenades, Diamond Head views, Waikiki views... *Good for sunset, mid-day or morning sessions.*
(See more example images from Magic Island Park here.)

Waialae Beach Park (click name to view Google Map)
Family friendly, nearly deserted beaches. Excellent for those classic Hawaii palm tree beach shots. Romantic for couples and fun for families. Connects to Kahala Hotel Resort beaches. CONS: rough sand beach, no waves. Parking can occasionally be limited so arrive early. *Excellent for morning/day and sunset sessions - but there are no direct sunset views.*
(See more example images from Waialae Beach Park here.)

Sandy Beach (click name to view Google Map)
A short drive from Waikiki gets you to Sandy Beach, a VERY popular hang out for locals to party, boogie board and body surf. The waves can be so rough here, there are more ambulance calls to this beach for injured tourists than any other location on the island. However, just off to one side there are no crowds and a beach sheltered from the rough waves. *Excellent for sunrise, morning/day and sunset sessions - but there are no direct sunset views.*
(See more example photos from Sandy Beach here.)