Best Photography Spots in Hawaii (Big Island)
The Big Island of Hawaii is treat for photography lovers. The Big Island is full of beautiful places where you can capture amazing and stunning photos. From volcanoes to beaches and waterfalls, this island offers it all. Here we will share the Top 10 Best Photography Spots in Hawaii (Big Island).
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Top 10 Best Photography Spots in Hawaii (Big Island)
1. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Here you can capture stunning photos of lava fields, volcanic craters, and steam vents. Don’t miss the Kīlauea Crater, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Visit during sunset or at night for dramatic lighting and glowing lava (if active).
📍 Location: South of Hilo
📸 Tip for Best Photography: Use a tripod for night shots and to capture the glowing lava or stars.
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2. Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
This beach is famous for its black sand and sea turtles. It is one of the best places for beach photography and wildlife pictures.
📍 Location: Near Volcano Village
📸 Tip for Best Photography: Early morning is best to spot turtles and avoid crowds.
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3. Akaka Falls State Park
You can walk through a lush rainforest to reach Akaka Falls. It is a very beautiful and one of the most photogenic 442-foot waterfall on the island.
📍 Location: North of Hilo
📸 Tip for Best Photography: Use slow shutter speed to make the water look smooth and dreamy.
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4. Mauna Kea Summit
Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii. From the summit, you will get spectacular views above the clouds. At night, it is one of the best places in the world for stargazing and astrophotography.
📍 Location: North-central Big Island
📸 Tip for Best Photography: Bring warm clothes and a wide-angle lens for the stars.
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5. Rainbow Falls
An easily accessible waterfall where you can sometimes see rainbows in the morning. It is a great spot for nature lovers.
📍 Location: Hilo
📸 Tip for Best Photography: Visit in the morning when the sun hits the mist to capture rainbows.
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6. Pololū Valley Lookout
Take stunning wide shots of the valley and ocean cliffs. You can also hike down to the beach for more photo opportunities.
📍 Location: North Kohala
📸 Tip for Best Photography: Use panorama mode for wide views. Sunrise and sunset look beautiful here.
7. Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
This valley is full of lush greenery, waterfalls, and a black sand beach. The lookout gives a high-up view perfect for landscape photography.
📍 Location: Hamakua Coast
📸 Tip for Best Photography: Try drone shots (where allowed) for a dramatic view of the valley.
8. Green Sand Beach (Papakōlea Beach)
One of only a few green sand beaches in the world. The color comes from a mineral called olivine. It is a long hike to get here, but worth it!
📍 Location: Near South Point
📸 Tip for Best Photography: Capture close-up shots of the green sand for something unique.
9. Lava Tree State Monument
See tree molds created by lava flows. It is a quiet, lesser-known spot for nature lovers.
📍 Location: Pāhoa, East Side
📸 Tip for Best Photography: Great for moody photos and playing with shadows and textures.
10. Kona Coast Sunsets
The Kona Coast is famous for its golden sunsets. Almost every beach here is a great sunset spot - especially Magic Sands Beach and Kua Bay.
📍 Location: West Coast
📸 Tip for Best Photography: Use the golden hour lighting (1 hour before sunset) for soft and warm photos.
Practical Tips for Photography in Hawaii Big Island
- Bring extra batteries and memory cards.
- Follow the rules and respect nature and wildlife.
- Use sunrise and sunset times for the best lighting.
- Be ready for sudden and quick weather changes.
Final Words!
The Big Island of Hawaii is a paradise for photographers. Whether you love landscapes, waterfalls, wildlife, or stars, there is a perfect spot for you. These top 10 photography locations will help you capture unforgettable memories.
➡️ Save this guide for your next Hawaii photo adventure!