As Oahu photographers we have the amazing opportunity to enjoy the island of Oahu every day. We are going to share some of the fun things we do as photographers in Oahu, so you don’t feel like you have to pay big money on tours and excursions in Hawaii.
First of all, the island is super easy to navigate so no need for tours or guides. If your staying in Waikiki, here are some of our favorite places and things to do. There is the strip with all kinds of fun shops and restaurants, Tommy Bahamas and Tikis are two of our favorites. Waikiki beach is like swimming in an aquarium with beautiful fish and crystal blue water. This is the gathering spot, so if you don’t mind crowds, the swimming, snorkeling and or course surfing is amazing. Waikiki beach has waves for all levels and is an easy paddle out to catch some waves.
Looking for a more chill spot but similar to Waikiki. Head over to Kapiolani park behind the Honolulu Zoo. This is a great park for picnicking, shady spots and the same blue water, waves and sandy beach. One of the best plate lunch places is here, Barefoot Beach Café. Stay for the evening and catch amazing sunsets.
Next take a drive along Diamond head and stop at Waialae beach. This beach looks like it was designed for photo ops with clear blue water, soft white sand, a little island you can swim to and mountains in the distance. Great place to snorkel right from the beach or paddleboard. We usually see lots of turtles and tropical fish anytime we visit.
Keep driving East and run into Hanauma Bay. This spot is of course popular tourist spot for snorkeling but reservations are difficult and its busy. Skip the crowds and hike along the edge and see Hanauma Bay from the cliffs, it is truly an amazing hike.
Winding around the cliffs driving you will next run into Halona Cove. The tours take you to the parking lot to see from the parking lot but the true fun is to hike down into the cove. You will have a blast exploring the lagoon, seeing turtles and climbing around the rocks.
Keep driving past the legendary Sandy beach and find Alan Davis Park. Here you can hike the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail which is a blast then hike down to a secluded lagoon. Alan Davis beach park is a great place to jump from rocks, snorkel and relax.
Take the long, scenic route around the East side to the North Shore and stop by Kualoa Beach Park, Of course there are many excursions at Kualoa Ranch but at the park you can walk around the back to hidden “secret beaches” and paddleboard out to China Mans Hat. If you are an experienced hiker it’s a blast to hike China Mans Hat as well.
Last but not least, the Ko ‘Olina resorts area on the North West side has numerous lagoons to swim and snorkel in that are somewhat protected from he oceans waves and creatures. We enjoy the Disney Aulani resorts beach because of the activities you might encounter and the lagoon is breathtaking. Across from the lagoons is a strip of shops and restaurants. Monkeypod is always a great experience with amazing food and live music!
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