Although they were staying at Aulani Resort on the leeward side, they were willing to make the long drive to lush, green Laie. Oahu may be a small island, but it’s diverse. Windward versus leeward, south shore versus north shore – each side has such a different feel and look. Laie Beach Park is a favorite for those who seek solitude and greenery.
We made the long, winding drive bright and early on a weekday morning to arrive at an empty beach. Crabs skittered along the shore and waves pounded the cliffs when we took our first steps onto the cool sand. At home, they have family photos taken each year and the girls have mastered the fake smile. I tried to break them out of the photo mind set and encourage them to have fun. Slowly and surely, they began to relax. However, it wasn’t until they changed into swimsuits that their true personalities came through.
Maggie is a confident swimmer and water lover, she made a bee line to take on the big waves. Ali is typically more timid in the water, but didn’t want her big sister to have all the fun. She slowly inched her way further and further out into the surf. The two sisters laughed with delight as they jumped wave after wave. They made plans to come back the next day.
Want some beautiful portraits of your family in Hawaii?
Let’s plan a fun morning at a quiet beach so you can take home memories of the salt spray and warm sun on your shoulders. Find out more about my fun family photography sessions here.