What is the Best Spot for Family Photos on Oahu? | Two Faces

February 7, 2022

Softness + Solitude at Laie Beach Park

People often ask me “What is the best spot for family photos on Oahu? As a photographer, what is your favorite location?” And I honestly can’t answer. Beauty is abundant, but the interpretations are varied. Some families fall in love with the classic tropical vibe of clear blue water and dancing palm trees. Others are drawn to massive, twisting trees forming a cool, protective canopy or mountain vistas. The choices are overwhelming so I recommend the best spots based on an individual families needs

For Michelle’s family we opted to play in the waves at quiet Laie Beach Park. I’ve been photographing their family on their annual Hawaii vacation for 5 years. So far, our sessions have taken us on a tour of the island – Lanikai and Kualoa on the eastern shores, leeward to Koolina, and Kawela Bay on the north shore. I wanted another new spot to show them that fit the energy level of their growing family. Laie has lots of space to run, few people, and beach treasure to discover. Perfect.

Except it wasn’t. The forecast calling for a sunny evening with light breezes was in reality windy and heavily clouded. Not exactly what we were promised, but the weather didn’t dampen the level of excitement.

hawaii family photo session at laie beach park

dad and son share a big laugh at laie beach park oahu

boy running along the beach with reflection in oahu

kids snuggle mom during a photoshoot in oahu

What is the Best Spot for Family Photos on Oahu

sibling boys play tag on the beach in oahu hawaii

boy running along the beach with a stick in hawaii

mom and daughter in a lush coastal forest laie oahu

mom snuggles tween daughter during an evening photo session in oahu hawaii

siblings play along the shore windward oahu

siblings play together at a beach in oahu

family of six walking along the beach in the evening laie oahu

portrait of a girl and her baby sister oahu hawaii

couple portrait with cliffs and mountains laie oahu

happy family sharing a hug during a beach photo session in hawaii

dad and toddler daughter drawing in the sand at the beach

mom snuggles son in the evening at laie beach park

Endless Sunshine at Koolina

Normally a bit of gloom wouldn’t bother me, but I know this family loves to get in the water for part of their session. They even get coordinating swimsuits from Of One Sea, but it was just too cold and dark to make it happen. I suggested meeting up for a quick morning dip in Koolina. The combination of locations made for a fun contrast showing two very different faces of Oahu.

a wide shot of koolina lagoon adjacent to aulani

dad plays with son in the calm waters of koolina beach

boy shoots the camera with a water gun at koolina lagoon

siblings splash each other at koolina beach

So what is the Best Spot for Family Photos on Oahu?

There are many stunning beach locations on Oahu. The best options ultimately depends on you and your family’s specific needs and interests. That’s why I like to get to know each family first and recommend some places I think they will love.

Let’s spend a morning taking photos and making memories in whatever backdrop fits you best. Most important is capturing the love and connection in your family. Find more information on my fun family photography sessions here.