Once in paradise, you’re likely to be overwhelmed with the beauty that greets you around every corner. With so many picturesque scenes, where do you begin?!?!
In the interest of helping you cover all your bases, we’ve compiled a list of what we feel are the Top 10 Photo Spots on Oahu. Some are historical, some are popular, and some are just plain beautiful. With this list, you’re sure to have fantastic photos to show off when you get home!
#1: Lanikai
The color of the water on the Windward side of Oahu will take your breath away! Just off of Lanikai beach are two small islets called Na Mokulua, or “the Moks,” which means “the two islands” in Hawaiian. Capture a stunning family or landscape shot with these islands in the background.
#2: Nuuanu Pali Lookout
At the crest of the Pali Highway, you’ll find this magnificent lookout. Featuring panoramic views of Kailua and Kaneohe, this locale also boasts a bloody history and howling winds. Word to the wise, don’t bother fixing your hair for this photo (see second example from my personal archive).
#3 Top of Diamond Head Trail
This spot won’t be for everyone; the trail is steep, rocky, and involves lots of stairs. But if you can make it to top, your reward is an exquisite view Honolulu.
#4 Halona Blowhole
This fun spectacle is created by water being forced through a lava tube and into the air. When the wave conditions are right, water can shoot up to 30 feet! Note: Please be sure to only take pictures from the lookout. The blowhole can be very unpredictable and dangerous. Do NOT climb down to take pictures near it.
#5 King Kamehameha I Statue
The most well-known statue of King Kamehameha I is located in front of Aliʻiolani, home to the Hawaii State Supreme Court. This is also directly across the street from ʻIolani Palace.
#6 Duke Kahanamoku Statue
Credited as the “father of modern surfing,” and original Waikiki Beach Boy, and goodwill ambassador for Hawaii, Duke Kahanamoku is a figure recognized world-wide. His bronze statue stands at Kuhio Beach in Waikiki.
#7 Makapuʻu Lighthouse
With it’s classic red roof, Makapuʻu Lighthouse stands proudly on the Eastern-most point of Oahu. The hike to the top is paved, but weather on that side of the island tends to be quite hot, so be sure to take it slow and bring lots of water.
#8 ʻIolani Palace
Undeniably one of the most historical sites in Hawaii, ʻIolani Palace is also the only royal residence in the United States. After taking the tour, be sure to get a shot of the palace with you in the foreground.
#9 USS Arizona Memorial
Built over the wreckage of the USS Arizona, the USS Arizona Memorial is an extraordinarily poignant and emotional place to visit. But it is certainly not to be missed on a trip to Hawaii.
#10 National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
This picturesque cemetery located in the crater of a volcano is the final resting place of over 50,000 US military service members. If you happen to be on island around Memorial Day, the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts decorate each grave with an American Flag and a lei. It’s a remarkable sight.
