Waimanalo Beach is where magic and mountains meet! This slice of paradise is perfect for family photos because its got all the right vibes I require.
Picture this: soft-as-powder sand for tiny feet, wide beaches for running, dreamy Hawaiian blue water that makes the sky jealous and jaw-dropping mountains.
Its off the tourist radar, so you wont have random strangers staring at you, or pretending their part of the fam.
The vibe? totally carefree. Let the kids go wild, strike those ridiculous-but-cute poses and let Waimanalo beaches do the heavy lifting.
Trust me, your photos will look like you causally strolled out of a vacation catalog.
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!
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.
Where is Waimanalo Beach?
Waimanlo is just hanging out on the windward side of Oahu, being eforrtlessly gorgeous and low-key legendary. You’ll find it tucked away from the chaos of Waikiki, like that cool, unbothered cousin who’s always up for a godo time but doesn’t need all the attention.
Its about 30-minute drive from Honolulu, but trust me, you’ll fee like you’ve stepped into another world- one with zero traffic (at that right times anyway) and all the tropical vibes.
Basically, Waimanalo Beach is Oahu’s chill beach hideaway, where you can roll up, snap some epic family photos and pretend you’re living your best island life.
Is Waimanalo Beach safe?
This beach is like the chill, responsible friend who makes sure everyone has sunscreen on and knows how to swim.
The waves are usually pretty mellow, making it perfect for little ones to splash around with you hovering like a helicopter.
Lifeguards: check. Plus its way less crowded than Waikiki so no dodging beach butts and cheeky thongs in your face just to keep an eye on your kids.
Just keep an eye on conditions because, like anywhere in Hawaii, the ocean likes to show off.
Overall, Waimanalo has your back. Make sure you bring the boogie boards. Check for conditions regularly.
Parking at Waimanalo Beach Park
Parking at Waimanalo Beach is simple and plentiful.
There’s a nice big parking lot right by the beach at both entrances – none of that circlgin for 30 minutes nonsense like the mall at Christmas.
Just roll up, snag a spot and you’re golden. Its free, too! (Yes! Free in Hawaii! Wild right?!)
And since Waimanalo’s not swarming with tourists like some other beaches, you’ll actually find a spot without wanting to pull your hair out.
Bathrooms at Waimanalo Beach
There are two sets of bathrooms at Waimanalo Beach – one in each parking lot.
Waimanalo Bay vs. Waimanalo Beach Park
Waimanalo Bay is the body of water that Waimanalo Beach Park sits on. The bay runs from Bellows Air Force Base to Makapu’u Point. Waimanalo Beach Park is the recreational facility operated by the City and County of Honolulu.
Directions to Waimanalo Beach
Getting Waimanalo is about 30 minute drive from Honolulu, unless you stop to “ooh” and “aah” along the way. There’s two ways to get there but my favorite is on the H-1.
Just go east on the H-1 like you’re making a casual escape from the city grind, then merge onto Kalanianaole Highway (Hwy72).
Keep cruising along the coast, soaking in those killer views – its a scenic drive! After passing Hanauma Bay and the blowhole (yeah, there’s always a crowd there, don’t worry, you’ll snapping family pics somewhere way cooler), you’ll wind your way through the mountains.
Next thing you know, BOOM! You’re in Waimanalo.
4 Reasons why Waimanalo Beach Is Perfect for Photos
Waimanalo Beach is perfect for family photos because that blue water is always on point! Its bascailly a tropical dream come true to life. Crystal-clear turquoise water, soft white sand and those dramatic mountains in the background – every shot looks like it’s straight out of a postcard.
The light is soft and peachy in the sunrise, scenery is wow and your family? Pure magic.
- Stunning water. There’s nothing else so electric on Oahu.
- Soft sand – even the most tender-footed toddler can run here!
- Wide beaches with plenty of room to play.
- Bonus! Jaw-dropping mountain background
More Resources for Waimanalo Beach Photos
- 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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