Kauai Photo Spots
Though each of the Hawaiian islands offers a healthy dose of paradise, Kauai, Hawaii remains the emerald jewel in the state’s crown. From Lihue to Princeville, a mountainous landscape covered with lush tropical rainforests, cascading waterfalls, botanical gardens and a spirit of serenity are Kauai’s major calling cards – it’s easy to see why it’s nicknamed the Garden Island 🌺 We’re here to spread the aloha by sharing our favourite, local-approved places to take photos in Kauai.
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TLDR
- Walk out on the Hanalei Pier in Hanalei Bay.
- Watch the waves at sunset on Shipwreck Beach.
- Adventure the north shore with a stop at Moloa’a Bay.
- Try Snorkelling in turquoise waters at Maha’Ulepu Beach.
- Relax and rejuvenate on the tranquil Anini Beach.
- Spot a Monk seal on Poipu Beach.
- Admire the breathtaking mossy Mountains from Ke’e Beach.
- Road trip through Waimea Canyon.
- Explore one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world on the Na Pali Coast.
- Take in the sunrise and stunning view from Kilauea Lighthouse.
Photo: Elizabeth in Kauai for Flytographer. Danielle and partner capture memories in Kauai with a couples photoshoot at Maha’Ulepu Beach.
1. Hanalei Bay
The largest bay on Kauai’s North Shore, Hanalei Bay, offers mountain views from some of Kauai’s most beautiful beaches. With frequent rains on the north side of the island, you can often see waterfalls cascading down the mountains in the distance. Hanalei Pier is iconic stretching out along the waves dotted by surfers 🏄♀️ and it’s a favourite must-visit spot for a Kauai photoshoot for visitors and locals alike. Don’t miss the Hanalei Valley Lookout on your drive north, where you can gaze over the taro fields, Namolokama mountain and panoramic views from one of the most stunning places to take photos in Kauai, Hawaii.
Photo: Elizabeth in Kauai for Flytographer. Lou and family capture memories in Kauai with a family photoshoot at Hanalei Bay.
2. Shipwreck Beach
Located on Kauai’s picturesque South Shore, Shipwreck Beach is a favourite spot for experienced surfers and boogie boarders, but its beautiful golden sands and hiking trail to Makawehi Point make it a great spot for any kind of traveller. Take a pit stop at the gorgeous view from the lookout point for one of the best Kauai Instagram spots. While the waves are sometimes too big to swim, it’s the perfect beach for a leisurely stroll on pillow-soft sands. 🌊 Bring a blanket and snacks to watch the sunset!
Photo: Elana in Kauai for Flytographer. Riley and partner capture memories in Kauai with a honeymoon photoshoot at Shipwreck Beach.
3. Moloa’a Bay
This horseshoe-shaped beach on the North Shore is beloved for its white sand beaches and calm, secluded vibes. Even the drive to the beach, around switchbacks, through lush jungle canopies, and past open pastures, is an activity in itself. When the water is calm, it’s perfect for snorkelling in the protected bay, and staying for sunset to watch a kaleidoscope of colours take over the sky. 🌅 Our Kauai photographers love this photo spot during golden hour!
Photo: Elana in Kauai for Flytographer. Benjamin and family capture memories in Kauai with a multigenerational family photoshoot at Moloa’s Bay.
4. Maha’Ulepu Beach
This truly remote beach is worth the trip down the bumpy dirt road! You’re welcome with golden sands, idyllic views and the perfect spot for snorkelling and sunbathing. As you enjoy the sunshine, you can watch the windsurfers gliding along the turquoise waters. ✨ This beach is the last bit of undeveloped, accessible coastline on Kauai, making it a pristine hidden gem with lots of lush places to take photos in Kauai. Maha’Ulepu Beach is also a fantastic photo spot for a proposal. Hello Kauai engagement photographer! 💍
Photo: Elizabeth in Kauai for Flytographer. Vincent and partner capture memories in Kauai with a couples photoshoot at Maha’Ulepu Beach.
5. Anini Beach
Anini Beach is like stepping into a Hawaiian paradise. The beach’s tranquil waters, protected by one of Hawaii’s largest coral reefs, offer a perfect spot for snorkelling and swimming. The soft, golden sands stretch along the coastline, inviting visitors to relax under the shade of swaying palm trees and connect with a Kauai family photographer. The atmosphere is wonderfully laid-back, making it one of the most peaceful places to take photos in Kauai. It’s where time seems to slow down, allowing you to take in the natural beauty surrounding you. Whether exploring the vibrant underwater world or simply basking in the sun, Anini Beach is an experience of peace and rejuvenation amidst Kauai’s landscapes.
Photo: Taggart in Kauai for Flytographer. Jason and partner capture memories in Kauai with a proposal photoshoot at Animi Beach.
6. Poipu Beach
Golden sands welcome you to Poipu Beach, and its natural wading pool begs you to stay. One of the most popular beaches on Kauai’s South Shore, Poipu offers visitors plenty of fun activities, such as snorkelling, swimming, bodyboarding, and surfing. 🌺 Poipu Beach is a great pick for families, beginner surfers, and bodyboarders, thanks to its calm waters. Keep an eye out for an appearance by the beach’s resident Hawaiian monk seals coming for a nap on the beach.
Photo: Taggart in Kauai for Flytographer. Tracey and family capture memories in Kauai with a family photoshoot at Poipu Beach.
7. Ke’e Beach
Located on Kauai’s gorgeous North Shore at the end of the highway, discover Ke’e Beach, a breathtaking oasis backed by the mossy green Makana Mountain Ridge. ⛰ Time your visit with a Kauai photographer for sunset for absolutely breathtaking views and photos to bring home. Ke’e Beach is also the start of the Na’pali Coast and the Kalalau trail, a popular route for adventurous hikers in search of mountaintop views. During the winter the surf can get rough, and the summer months bring calm, glassy waters perfect for snorkelling around the reef. 🥽
Top tip: Tunnels Beach is only a five-minute drive away and a must-stop if you want to explore a magical underwater world of unique lava tubes and caverns!
Photo: Michaela in Kauai for Flytographer. Jacob and partner capture memories in Kauai with a honeymoon photoshoot.
8. Waimea Canyon
It might be hard to imagine “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific” on a small island, but when you take in the endless, panoramic views of Waimea Canyon, it’s easy to see where the nickname comes from. This sprawling state park is full of adventures, including winding drives with stunning (and easily accessible 🚗) overlooks, beautiful hikes and plenty of places to take photos in Kauai!
Photo: Elizabeth in Kauai for Flytographer. Charleen and partner capture memories in Kauai with a family photoshoot.
9. Na Pali Coast
Arguably one of the most famous and beautiful coastlines in the world, the cliffs and waterfalls cascade into the sea in a dramatic display. The best Kauai photo tours and photo opportunities of this inaccessible coastline are by helicopter tour or by boat, and the adventure is unmatched. The only land access is via the Kalalau Trail which traverses five valleys, including the Kalalau valley, with a stop at the spectacular Kalalau lookout. The first two miles from Hāʻena State Park to Hanakapi’ai Beach are a popular day hike, but traversing the entire 11-mile trail requires an overnight camping permit to complete the trek in two days. ⛺️
Photo: Michaela in Kauai for Flytographer. Nick and partner capture memories in Kauai with a proposal photoshoot.
10. Kilauea Lighthouse
Unlike the Na Pali Coast, this Instagrammable spot is easy to find for a quick stop with an incredible view. Just a short walk from the parking lot, you’re able to see the Kilauea Lighthouse perched on the end of the cliff overlooking the water. It’s also a wildlife refuge, so, photographers in Kauai keep your eyes 👀 peeled to spot a red-footed booby, a Laysan albatross, and a wedge-tailed shearwater, among other Kauai wildlife in their natural habitat. The area is also a safe haven for the endangered Hawaiian monk seal, green sea turtles, and humpback whales.
Photo: Elana in Kauai for Flytographer. Sarah and family capture memories in Kauai with a family photoshoot.
Capturing Memories in Kauai, Hawaii
Are you inspired to explore and photograph the island of Kauai? The Garden Isle makes it easy to capture breathtaking photos, and when you need a local’s eye behind the lens, book a photoshoot with a Flytographer in Hawaii to capture the Island’s magic. ✨
30,000+ 5 Star reviews from across the globe!
“Taggart did an awesome job capturing beautiful photos of our family and of the Kauai landscape! The photos are just what we wanted! Taggart was friendly and personable and easy to work with. Our teenage boys even enjoyed working with him and had fun – and teenagers can be difficult when it comes to photo taking – LOL! We would definitely recommend him! Thanks Taggart for capturing these photos/memories we will cherish!”
Gwendy
Hanalei Bay Beach
“Elizabeth far exceeded our expectations. Her keen eye and artistic perspective were evident in the beautiful photos she captured. She provided excellent suggestions for photography locations, each one adding a unique backdrop to our memories. Her friendly demeanor made the entire experience enjoyable, creating a comfortable environment that allowed genuine emotions to shine through in every shot. We would definitely book her services again!”
Michael and Kat
Shipwreck Beach
“Michaela took photos for me and my fiancé’s engagement and for my sister’s graduation. She made us feel all so comfortable in front of the camera and she was so great at giving us directions, incorporating a lot of movement and different backgrounds. We shot at sunset at Shipwreck beach which was very busy, but she made it work seamlessly. You wouldn’t know there were a lot of people on the beach based on the pictures. In the end, we got a wide variety of different pictures and they all turned out so beautifully!”
Yvonne
Shipwreck Beach
