As a local couples photographer on Oahu, I know the island offers stunning beach locations that provide the perfect backdrop for an engagement session on Oahu. Whether you’re drawn to the classic beauty of Waikiki or the hidden gems off the beaten path, Oahu has an abundance of options to suit any couple’s style. In this guide, I’ll highlight 10 of the best beach locations for your engagement session, with details on the vibe of each spot, how to get there, and the best times to shoot. Let’s begin.

1. Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach is a pristine stretch of soft white sand with calm, turquoise waters. It’s famous for the picturesque view of the Mokulua Islands just offshore, making it a favorite for an engagement session on Oahu. The backdrop is both serene and iconic—perfect for couples who want a romantic, natural vibe in their photos.

• Best time: Sunrise is ideal for capturing the glowing light and avoiding crowds.
• Distance from Waikiki: Approximately 40 minutes by car (17 miles).
• Directions: Take the Pali Highway (Hwy 61) to Kailua, then follow Kailua Road to Lanikai Beach. There is limited parking, so arrive early.

2. Makapu’u Beach

Makapu’u Beach, located on Oahu’s southeastern tip, offers dramatic cliffs, dark sand, and crashing waves. It’s perfect for couples looking for something more moody and adventurous in their engagement photos. The contrast between the volcanic rock and the deep blue ocean makes for stunning editorial-style images.

• Best time: Morning or late afternoon to catch softer light.
• Distance from Waikiki: 35 minutes by car (16 miles).
• Directions: Take Kalanianaole Highway (Hwy 72) east from Waikiki. You’ll find ample parking near Makapu’u Lookout.

3. Waimanalo Beach

Known for its long, quiet stretch of sand and turquoise water, Waimanalo Beach is a more peaceful alternative to some of the busier spots on the island. The surrounding ironwood trees add a lush, green backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the white sand, making it the perfect location for your engagement session on Oahu.

• Best time: Early morning for fewer crowds and softer light.
• Distance from Waikiki: 35 minutes by car (17 miles).
• Directions: Take Kalanianaole Highway (Hwy 72) toward Waimanalo. Parking is available near the beach park entrance.

4. Sunset Beach

Located on Oahu’s North Shore, Sunset Beach is ideal for couples who want to capture the golden light of the evening. This beach is famous for its world-class surf in winter, but during summer, the calm waters and wide sandy shore make it perfect for a laid-back, romantic engagement session.

• Best time: Just before sunset for golden hour lighting.
• Distance from Waikiki: About 1 hour by car (37 miles).
• Directions: Take H-1 West to the H-2 North, then follow signs for the North Shore. There’s parking available along Kamehameha Highway.

5. Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach is a quieter counterpart to Lanikai, offering soft sand and clear waters. The expansive beach allows for a more intimate feel, and its calm waters and lush greenery provide a tranquil backdrop for couples who want a serene look to their photos.

• Best time: Morning to early afternoon when the light is soft and even.
• Distance from Waikiki: 35 minutes by car (17 miles).
• Directions: Take the Pali Highway (Hwy 61) to Kailua and follow signs to the beach park. There’s ample parking at Kailua Beach Park.

6. Waialae Beach Park

Located near the Kahala Resort, Waialae Beach Park offers a quiet beach with coconut palms, grassy areas, and tidepools. It’s ideal for couples who want a more refined, tropical setting without venturing too far from Waikiki.

• Best time: Sunrise or early morning for softer light and fewer visitors.
• Distance from Waikiki: 15 minutes by car (5 miles).
• Directions: Head east on Kalanianaole Highway (Hwy 72) and turn onto Waialae Beach Road. Parking is available at the park.

7. Ko Olina Lagoons

Ko Olina features a series of man-made lagoons with calm waters, lush lawns, and nearby luxury resorts. It’s perfect for couples seeking a more polished, resort-style vibe for their engagement photos, with plenty of space to shoot along the lagoons. While this spot is popular, it’s still a wonderful location for your engagement session on Oahu.

• Best time: Late afternoon for golden hour and fewer crowds.
• Distance from Waikiki: 40 minutes by car (26 miles).
• Directions: Take H-1 West toward Kapolei, and follow signs to Ko Olina Resort. Parking is available at the public lagoon lots.

8. Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is a protected marine reserve known for its clear, shallow waters and coral reefs. The sweeping views from the lookout point above the bay are perfect for dramatic, wide-angle engagement photos.

• Best time: Early morning before the park gets crowded.
• Distance from Waikiki: 30 minutes by car (11 miles).
• Directions: Take Kalanianaole Highway (Hwy 72) to Hanauma Bay. Parking is available, but there is an entrance fee to access the beach.

9. Kualoa Beach Park

Located near the famous Kualoa Ranch, Kualoa Beach Park offers views of Chinaman’s Hat, a small, conical island off the coast. The park features coconut trees, a wide stretch of sand, and views of Oahu’s lush mountains, making it perfect for couples who want a mix of ocean and tropical greenery.

• Best time: Late afternoon to capture golden hour with dramatic light.
• Distance from Waikiki: 45 minutes by car (23 miles).
• Directions: Take Kamehameha Highway (Hwy 83) toward Kualoa. There is ample parking at the beach park.

10. Ala Moana Beach Park

For couples looking for convenience and variety, Ala Moana Beach Park offers a central location with views of both the ocean and the city skyline. It’s a great spot for couples who want to capture the sunset over the water with Diamond Head in the background.

• Best time: Sunset for a stunning view of the Honolulu skyline.
• Distance from Waikiki: 10 minutes by car (2 miles).
• Directions: Take Ala Moana Boulevard west from Waikiki. Parking is available throughout the park.

A full list of permissible beach locations for your engagement session on Oahu from the DLNR can be found here.

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FAQs for Your Oahu Engagement Session

1. What should we wear for our engagement session?
Upon booking, I provide a comprehensive style guide to help you choose outfits that reflect your personal style while complementing the natural surroundings of Oahu. But for now, consider that neutral tones, flowy fabrics, and comfortable footwear are ideal for beach locations.

2. How far in advance should we book our engagement session?
I recommend booking your session at least 2-3 months in advance, especially if you want a prime location or time of day. Oahu’s popular spots can get busy, so it’s best to plan ahead.

3. Can we include multiple locations during our session?
Absolutely! We can shoot at multiple locations as long as they’re close enough to fit within the session time. I’ll help you choose the best combination based on your vision.

4. What if it rains on the day of our session?
Oahu’s weather can be unpredictable, but we can usually work around showers. If needed, I’ll discuss backup plans or reschedule your session to ensure you get the best possible conditions.

5. Do you offer film photography for engagement sessions?
Yes, I offer optional film photography add-ons to give your engagement photos a timeless, editorial feel. We can discuss this in detail when you inquire.

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Planning your engagement session on Oahu should be fun, exciting, and tailored to your style. With my insider knowledge of the island’s best locations and an editorial approach to capturing timeless moments, you’re guaranteed a unique and unforgettable experience.

Think we’d be a great match? View more information on Oahu couples sessions here, and when you’re ready, you may inquire here. I’d love to have you!