Leleiwi Beach Park is part of a string of small beach parks lining the Big Island's east coast. This isn't a typical sandy beach. The shoreline is almost entirely black lava rock, dotted with tide pools at low tide. The mix of dark volcanic rock, clear blue-green water, and greenery gives you a lot to work with. The lava formations are full of texture and sharp lines, and they photograph really well with the ocean stretching out behind them. Low angles along the rock shelves can pull together some strong compositions, especially when waves wash over the edges and smooth out into the pools. Green sea turtles are often seen in the area, so you may get a chance at some wildlife photography too. (If you are lucky enough to spot some on the beach remember to they are a protected species and to give them their space.) Morning light comes from behind you as you face the water, which is great for lighting up the rock textures and pool colours without harsh glare. Late afternoon brings warm side light along the shoreline, and golden hour can really make those lava formations glow. The park has covered pavilions right on the water's edge that can serve as framing elements or simply a shady spot to shoot from. It's a quieter alternative to the more popular beaches nearby so you can usually find clean compositions without people in the frame. The park is open 7am to 7pm. (Hilo, Hawaii, USA)
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