Best Beaches for Wedding Photos in Hawaii

There’s no better backdrop for your wedding photos than the sun-kissed beaches of Hawaii. Whether you're planning a destination wedding, an intimate elopement, or simply want stunning portraits by the ocean, Hawaii offers some of the most photogenic coastlines in the world.

But not all beaches are created equal when it comes to wedding photography. Some offer sweeping mountain views, others glow with golden sand at sunset, and a few are perfect hidden gems with hardly any crowds.

As a team that’s captured hundreds of weddings across the islands, here are our top picks for the best beaches in Hawaii for wedding photos—especially on Oahu.

1. Papailoa Beach (North Shore, Oahu)

Vibe: Romantic, raw, and cinematic
Why We Love It: Known as a “secret beach,” Papailoa features dramatic lava rock formations, soft sand, and epic North Shore sunsets. It’s often quiet—perfect for intimate photos without distractions.
Best Time to Shoot: One hour before sunset
Pro Tip: Wear neutral or earthy tones to complement the natural textures.

2. Sandy Beach (South East Oahu)

Vibe: Bold, colorful, and adventurous
Why We Love It: Crashing waves, lava rock cliffs, and golden sunsets make Sandy Beach a favorite for couples who want drama and movement in their shots.
Best Time to Shoot: Sunset
Pro Tip: We’ll guide you on safe spots—this beach is beautiful but can be rough in the water.

3. Magic Island (Honolulu, Oahu)

Vibe: Classic, balanced, and city-adjacent
Why We Love It: This man-made peninsula offers ocean views, palm trees, and views of Diamond Head—all in one place. Perfect if you’re getting married nearby at a hotel or resort.
Best Time to Shoot: Sunset
Convenience: Easily accessible with lots of parking.

4. Secret Beach at Ko Olina (West Oahu)

Vibe: Private, calm, and luxurious
Why We Love It: Tucked between lagoons and rocky tidepools, Secret Beach gives you a “resort getaway” feel without the crowds. It’s perfect for couples staying at Aulani or Four Seasons.
Best Time to Shoot: Sunset for golden light over the water
Permit: Required for professional shoots

5. Kualoa Regional Park (East Oahu)

Vibe: Jurassic Park meets wedding dreamland
Why We Love It: With stunning views of the Ko’olau Mountains and Chinaman’s Hat, this beach offers a dramatic combo of mountains and ocean—hard to find anywhere else.
Best Time to Shoot: Early morning or late afternoon
Pro Tip: Bring a change of clothes if you want to explore further inland for epic mountain shots.

6. Ali‘i Beach Park (Haleiwa, North Shore)

Vibe: Laid-back, golden, and local
Why We Love It: This beach has soft sand, calm tidepools, and a great open-sky vibe. It’s often less busy than nearby beaches and gives a warm, nostalgic feel in photos.
Best Time to Shoot: Late afternoon or golden hour
Bonus: Great for both video and photo due to minimal background noise and clutter

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right beach for your wedding photos can make all the difference in how your memories are captured. Whether you want something romantic, adventurous, or timeless—Hawaii has the perfect beach for you.

At One Moment Hawaii, we help you find the best location based on your style, lighting preferences, and desired vibe. From scouting the perfect spot to guiding you through natural poses, we’re here to make the experience unforgettable.

Want help choosing the right beach and planning your photo session?
Click here to contact us or explore our wedding photography packages here.