Lanikai is a top rate beach over and over again. Ever see photos with those two islands in the back? They’re locally called the Twin Islands and that is Lanikai! There’s zero public parking, small beaches at high tide, and lots of canoe clubs. It can be tricky, but its still one of my favorites!
When it comes to visiting Lanikai Beach, I have a full write up on what to expect.
Table of Contents
What I look for in beach photo locations
As a mom, I want my kids to have the freedom to move and be themselves (read: loud)
- Soft sand
- Easy parking
- Easy to get to
- Room to run
- Few crowds (so we don’t disturb at anyone)
- Toilets and showers, if possible
As a photographer, I want easy accessibility, few crowds, soft sand to play in, and good light. Always good light!
- Soft sand to play in
- easy parking
- Easy to get to
- Room to run and play
- Few crowds to get in our way
- Great light – always.
So basically the same things!
Lanikai Beach photos brings almost all of that together in one place.
Hi! I’m Alison, your chaos coordinator, toddler briber, and parent commiserator. Oh! And Oahu family photographer!
As the ringleader of my own 4-boy circus, I know how hard getting family photos can be.
I run my photo session like a party. I give you something TO DO so you don’t feel awkward wondering, “Where do I put my HANDS?!”
Dad is playing with the kids, everyone forgets what’s ACTUALLY happening, and you look amazing bc you’re actually enjoying yourself. #whoknewphotoscouldbefun
Fast. Fun. Done.
What I love about Lanikai Beach Photos
Lanikai Beach has super soft sand that is easy to walk and play in. Even babies can get around in it! The water is gentle year round so ending a photo session in splashing is always an option – and encouraged!
The color of the water is always several shades of blue and the twin islands in the bay add dimension and scale to photos.
Lanikai is also not a super long drive from Waikiki. Unlike the North Shore or KoOlina, Lanikai is a gorgeous 40 minute drive from the resort area of Honolulu through the mountains on Pali Highway. There are multiple look outs and you’ll drive straight through the town of Kailua which is worth its own half day adventure!
What I don’t love about Lanikai Beach Photos
Lanikai Beach parking is tough. Its a residential neighborhood with one main loop that goes in one direction. Parking is limited to just one side of the street on that loop. There are 11 public access points, usually with little to no available parking.
The other thing I don’t love about Lanikai beach photos are the crowds and canoes. Even early evening hours on a week day are busy. There are folks in the water and canoe teams practices in the bay.
Neither is a deal breaker, but its something to be aware of. We’ll certainly need to work around it.
Have you thought about family photos while you’re in Hawai’i?
Its photo season year-round here in Hawaii and I want you to take advantage of it!
Take home the bright skies, warm air and blue water to relive it over and over because you’ll never experience this place with the kids these ages ever again.
This is your one shot. Take it!
As the ringleader of my own 4 boy circus, I know how hard getting family photos can be. I’m here to change that.
If I could dress your kids and literally hang your family photos on your walls, I would …but I can’t, so I do just about everything else in between. That’s why I take the time to hold your hand from start to finish.
Because what good are family photos if your kids never see them?
I only accept two families a week, so if you have dates, reach out to Alison Bell, Photographer now.
Lanikai Beach Photos
More Hawaii Family Photography Resources
- Lanikai Beach – Ultimate Run Down For the Best Experience
- 4 Best Shops For Matching Aloha Wear for Hawaii Family Photos
- Top 5 Reasons You MUST Do a Morning Photoshoot In Hawaii
- Recreate Your Trip Forever: Disney Aulani Photos for Extended Families
- Featured: I’m Possible Spousely Podcast
- Disney Aulani Photopass: Is it Worth It?
I'm a USMC spouse, South Carolina native, recovering homeschool mama of a 4 boy circus. They've taught me the most important facet of family photography: KEEP IT FUN!
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