Heading to Oahu and want to know the best places for amazing Oahu photography? Scroll to check out my top Instagrammable spots on Oahu you have to see to believe!
This Instagrammable spots on Oahu post was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
After 40+ trips to Hawaii and countless hours chasing the perfect shot with my kids in tow, I can tell you that Oahu has some of the most jaw-dropping photo opportunities you’ll ever find.
But here’s what most Instagram guides won’t tell you: getting that stunning shot with kids isn’t about finding the most popular spot.
It’s about knowing when to go, how to make it work for your family, and which spots are actually worth the effort.
As a professional tourist and Hawaii travel expert, I’ve learned which Oahu photography spots deliver the magic you see online and which ones leave you frustrated in a crowd.
So grab your camera (or let’s be real, your phone), and let me show you the Instagram-worthy spots that’ll make your friends back home seriously jealous.
Want my complete Oahu itinerary with daily schedules and all my insider tips? Check out my comprehensive Oahu Travel Guide for Families.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed planning this trip, I’ve got you covered with my free 7-day email course on how to plan a trip to Oahu. I walk you through everything step by step so you can stop stressing and start getting excited.
Plus, don’t miss my Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast episode on planning your Oahu trip. I cover all the stuff that doesn’t make it into blog posts.
Quick Tips for Getting Great Photos with Kids
Before we jump into the specific spots, here’s what I’ve learned about Oahu photography with kids after years of trial and error:
Timing is everything. Get to popular spots right when they open. My son and I climbed Diamond Head right after sunrise, and having that view without the crowds made all the difference. Plus, morning light is way more flattering than harsh midday sun.
Keep it fun, not forced. The best photos happen when kids are genuinely having a good time. Let them explore, be silly, and do their thing. Those candid moments beat posed shots every single time.
Bring snacks and water. A hungry kid is not a cooperative kid. Trust me on this one.
Have a backup plan. If a spot is too crowded or your toddler is melting down, pivot. There’s always another gorgeous view around the corner in Hawaii.
Consider booking a professional. Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we book a family photo shoot with Flytographer.
They handle all the hard work while you actually enjoy the moment, and you get beautiful photos with everyone in them (not just the person not taking the photo). You can save $20 when you use my link.
The Must-See Oahu Instagram Spots
Diamond Head
Let me just say it: the view from the top of Diamond Head is absolutely spectacular.
My son and I hiked up right after sunrise one morning, and watching the city wake up with that incredible ocean backdrop was one of those moments that sticks with you.
The hike is about 1.6 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 560 feet. Yes, there are stairs (lots of them), but it’s totally doable with kids who are at least 5 or 6 years old. Just take your time and bring plenty of water.
Here’s what you need to know for 2025: All non-residents must have advance reservations.
Book through the official state parks website up to 30 days ahead. Entry is $5 per person (kids 3 and under free) plus $10 for parking. The park opens at 6am, and that first slot is absolute gold for photos.
During our early morning hike, we had those panoramic 360-degree views almost to ourselves. By the time we came back down around 8am, the line was already getting long.
Photography tip: The best shots are from the summit bunkers. Climb up into them for that classic Diamond Head photo with Waikiki in the background.
Rent a car to explore the island through Discount Hawaii Car Rental and save on your transportation.
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
Okay, I need to be straight with you about this one. That iconic entrance road photo you’ve probably seen all over Instagram? It’s illegal now. There are signs EVERYWHERE, and they actually have guards enforcing it. Don’t try it.
BUT. The rest of Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is absolutely gorgeous and totally worth visiting. Think lush tropical plants, peaceful lakes, and those dramatic Ko’olau Mountain backdrops that make you feel like you’ve stepped into Jurassic Park.
The garden is free (which is amazing) and open 9am to 4pm daily except Thursdays. Drive slowly through the park, and you’ll find tons of pull-off spots with beautiful views. Walk the trail down to the lake for stunning reflections when it’s calm.
Photography tip: The area near the visitor center has amazing mountain views without the crowds. Get there in the morning when the light hits the mountains just right and you might catch some mist.
Book your Oahu activities on Viator or Get Your Guide and skip the hassle of planning everything yourself.
Byodo-In Temple
This place is an endless stream of photo opportunities, and my youngest absolutely loved it when we visited (he was 5 at the time).
There’s something magical about watching a little kid bang that massive bell and explore an authentic Japanese temple nestled against Oahu’s green mountains.
The Byodo-In Temple is a smaller replica of a 900-year-old temple in Japan, and it’s absolutely stunning. The koi pond, the peaceful grounds, the dramatic mountain backdrop – every angle is gorgeous.
Entry is $5 for adults, free for kids 12 and under. It’s open 9am to 5pm daily. Give yourself at least 45 minutes to really explore and get photos.
Photography tip: Visit in the afternoon when fewer tour buses are there. The temple and its reflection in the pond make for incredible shots. Let your kids feed the koi (you can buy fish food there) – their excited faces make the best candid photos.
I wrote a complete guide to visiting Byodo-In Temple if you want all the details.
Kualoa Ranch
It doesn’t get much prettier than Kualoa Ranch. Those emerald green mountains that tower over the coastline? They’re the ones from Jurassic Park, and trust me, they look even better in person.
We’ve done a bunch of tours here (including an awesome UTV tour), and I swear my phone dies because of all the photos and videos I take. Every single angle is stunning.
You can drive through Kualoa Regional Park for free and get amazing views of Chinaman’s Hat (that little island just offshore). But if you want to explore deeper into the ranch where they filmed dozens of movies, you’ll need to book a tour.
The movie site tours take you to actual filming locations from Jurassic Park, Jumanji, and Lost.
The horseback riding tours give you mountain and ocean views that’ll take your breath away. And the ATV tours? Pure adrenaline with incredible scenery.
Photography tip: The view of the mountains from the beach is free and spectacular. Go during golden hour (the hour before sunset) for that warm, glowing light that makes everything look magical.
Want all my Kualoa tips? Read my complete guide to visiting Kualoa Ranch.
Lanikai Beach
If you want that classic “I’m in paradise” photo, Lanikai Beach is where it’s at. The sand is so soft and white, the water is that dreamy turquoise blue, and those two little islands (the Mokuluas) sitting just offshore make the perfect backdrop.
This beach used to be more of a local secret, but now it’s pretty popular. Park early (before 9am if possible) to snag a street spot in the neighborhood. The beach access points are between houses, so just look for the little blue beach access signs.
Photography tip: Sunrise here is absolutely magical. The sun rises right behind the Mokulua Islands, and if you time it right, you’ll get incredible golden light and way fewer people. Just be respectful of the neighborhood when you’re finding parking that early.
Want more beach recommendations? Check out my guide to the prettiest beaches on Oahu.
Lanikai Pillbox Hike
If you hike up to the Lanikai Pillboxes, you’ll see Lanikai Beach from above, and let me tell you, it’s stunning.
The old WWII bunkers at the top are covered in colorful graffiti, and the views of the turquoise water and those two islands are unreal.
The hike is only about a mile round trip, but it’s steep right from the start. Plan for 45 minutes to an hour. It’s totally doable with older kids (8+), but I wouldn’t attempt it with little ones.
Photography tip: The first pillbox has the best views and is the easiest to reach. If you’re short on time or energy, stop there. The colors are most vibrant at sunrise, but honestly, it’s gorgeous any time of day.
Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail
This is hands down one of my favorite family-friendly hikes on Oahu. The trail is completely paved (stroller-friendly!), the views are stunning, and you might even spot whales during winter months.
The trail is 2 miles round trip with gorgeous ocean views the entire way. The red-roofed lighthouse perched on the cliff is iconic, and the lookout points give you sweeping views of the coastline.
Photography tip: Go early or late in the day to avoid the heat since there’s almost no shade. The lookout about halfway up has incredible views and is usually less crowded than the endpoint.
Read more in my guide to the Makapu’u Lighthouse hike.
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay looks like a watercolor painting from above and is even more gorgeous when you’re snorkeling in it. The crescent bay with its bright blue water is one of the most photographed spots on Oahu for good reason.
Here’s what you need to know for 2025: Reservations are required and they book up FAST.
Reservations open two days in advance at 7am HST through the Honolulu Parks & Recreation website. Set an alarm and be ready to book right at 7am.
Entry is $25 per person (free for kids 12 and under and Hawaii residents). The bay is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Last entry is 1:30pm.
Photography tip: The lookout above the bay is free and gives you that classic aerial shot. Park at the top even if you’re going down to snorkel, and snap that photo before you head down.
Book your snorkeling gear on Viator or bring your own to save money.
Kaneohe Sandbar
This is one of the coolest places in all of Hawaii. Picture a white sand beach that appears in the middle of Kaneohe Bay at low tide, surrounded by turquoise water and those dramatic green mountains in the background.
You can’t drive there – you need to take a boat. We’ve done a few Kaneohe Sandbar tours and they’re always a hit with the kids. Most tours include snorkeling, paddleboarding, and time to just chill on the sandbar.
Photography tip: The contrast between the white sand, turquoise water, and green mountains is insane. Bring a waterproof camera or phone case. The aerial shots with a drone are incredible if you have one.
Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach)
Want to see sea turtles? This is your spot. Laniakea Beach is famous for the green sea turtles that come ashore to rest, and it’s pretty much guaranteed you’ll see them.
When my youngest was 5, we stopped here specifically because he wanted to see real sea turtles. Watching his face light up when we spotted one coming out of the water was priceless.
Important: Stay at least 10 feet away from the turtles. It’s the law, and it protects these beautiful endangered animals. Get your photos from a respectful distance.
Photography tip: Use your zoom lens or crop in later. You’ll get great shots without disturbing the turtles. The beach itself is also gorgeous with its black lava rocks and blue water.
Learn more in my ultimate guide to Turtle Beach.
Waimea Valley and Falls
Waimea Valley offers a beautiful paved walk through botanical gardens to a waterfall where you can actually swim. It’s an easy 1.5-mile round trip hike that even little kids can handle.
Entry is $25 for adults, $15 for kids 4-12, free for 3 and under. The gardens are stunning with plants from all over the world, and the waterfall at the end is the perfect reward.
Photography tip: Go early before it gets crowded. The waterfall photos are best when there aren’t 50 people in them. Life vests are required for swimming, so factor that into your photos.
Kailua Beach
Kailua Beach is one of those places that just screams Hawaii. Soft white sand, bright turquoise water, and enough space that you don’t feel crowded even on busy days.
It’s perfect for families because the water is calm and shallow. Plus, there are plenty of food options nearby when you inevitably get hungry.
Photography tip: The colors here are most vibrant on sunny days (the water looks more turquoise). Walk toward either end of the beach for less crowded shots.
Chinaman’s Hat (Mokoli’i Island)
That little island you see from Kualoa is called Chinaman’s Hat, and it makes for incredible photos. You can kayak out to it at low tide or just photograph it from the beach at Kualoa Regional Park.
Photography tip: The view from the beach is free and perfect. Time your visit for sunrise or sunset when the light is golden and warm. The island creates a beautiful silhouette against the colorful sky.
Sunset Beach (North Shore)
As the name suggests, this is THE place for sunset photos on Oahu. The North Shore has a completely different vibe from Waikiki – more laid-back, less developed, just pure Hawaii.
In winter, this beach has massive waves and pro surfers. In summer, it’s calm and perfect for swimming. Either way, it’s gorgeous.
Photography tip: Get there about 30 minutes before sunset. Find your spot, get comfortable, and watch the show. The colors reflect off the water and create magic.
More Spots Worth Your Time
Waimanalo Beach: Often called Sherwood Beach, this is one of the most beautiful and least touristy beaches on Oahu. Soft sand, turquoise water, mountain views.
Koko Head: If you want a serious workout with an incredible payoff, climb the 1,048 steps up this old railway track. The 360-degree views from the top are insane. Not for little kids.
Lanai Lookout: Stop here on your drive around the east side. The lava rock formations and crashing waves are dramatic. On clear days, you can see the islands of Molokai and Lanai.
Maunawili Falls: A moderate 3-mile round trip hike through lush forest to a waterfall with a swimming hole. Muddy when wet, but beautiful.
What About Crouching Lion?
I know you’ve probably seen gorgeous photos from Crouching Lion. Here’s the truth: it’s officially closed and not maintained by the state. There are “closed” signs at the trailhead.
That said, people still hike it at their own risk. It’s steep, can be slippery, and has some sketchy sections.
I absolutely would not recommend it for families with young kids.
If you choose to go, understand you’re doing so at your own risk, and the short version (to the first viewpoint) is much safer than continuing to the summit.
Planning Your Oahu Photo Adventure
The best part about these Oahu Instagram spots? Most of them are family-friendly and don’t require crazy hikes or sketchy climbs.
Sure, some spots need a bit more effort, but the memories (and photos) are totally worth it.
If you’re planning your first Oahu trip and feeling overwhelmed, I’ve been there. That’s exactly why I created my Oahu Travel Guide for Families.
It’s to give you everything you need in one place so you can stop googling and start getting excited.
I also offer one-on-one Hawaii travel consultations if you want personalized help planning your perfect trip.
As a Certified Hawaii Destination Specialist who’s visited Oahu dozens of times, I can help you create an itinerary that works for YOUR family.
Want more help? Check out my free email course on saving money in Hawaii or my free 5-day course on how to travel to Hawaii like a pro.
And if you’re planning to visit multiple islands, grab my Hawaii Island Hopping Guide to make it easy.
Your Turn!
Oahu never stops amazing me, even after 40+ visits. There’s something about this island that just makes you want to capture every moment. The mountains, the beaches, the culture – it all comes together to create pure magic.
So grab your camera, pack some snacks, wake up early for that sunrise, and go make some memories. Your Instagram feed (and your heart) will thank you.
And hey, if you end up needing more help planning this trip, I’m always here. That’s what this Hawaii travel expert does – helps families like yours have the best vacation ever.
Looking for more Oahu inspiration? Check out my posts on where to eat on Oahu with kids, the best things to do on Oahu with kids, and my favorite Oahu hidden gems.
Aloha, and happy photographing!
