Waimānalo Beach

Waimānalo Beach stretches along Oahu's windward coast for nearly four miles, offering some of the softest white sand and most vivid turquoise water you will find on the island. The Ko'olau Mountains rising sharply behind the beach create a dramatic backdrop that sets this spot apart from other Hawaiian beaches, and the combination of lush green ridgelines, blue water, and pale sand gives you a strong sense of depth in your compositions. Shoot from the water's edge looking back toward the mountains, or walk down the beach to find natural framing with ironwood trees along the shoreline. Sunrise is the best time to visit, when warm light catches the mountains and the beach is nearly empty. A wide angle lens works well for capturing the full sweep of the scene. Parking is available at Waimānalo Beach Park. (Waimānalo, Oahu, Hawaii, United States)