I admit I’m not very motivated when it comes to getting up early enough to photograph sunrises. I have honestly tried, but my body is just not on that clock. Sunsets, however, are a different story. I will skip dinner to get a good sunset photo, and I’ve been known to set up my tripod an hour early just to make sure I’m ready when the best colors show up. The Hawaiian Islands have gifted me some of the most amazing sunsets I’ve ever seen. About ten years ago, I was lucky enough to get to live on the island of Maui for more than a year while working on a project. I spent many evenings after work going to various beaches in south Maui to watch the sunset. These are my favorite Hawaii sunset photo spots, including locations on Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
Hanalei Pier (Kauai)

Located on one of the most scenic bays in Hawaii is the picturesque Hanalei Pier. Until 1933, the shed-roofed pier served shipping purposes. Now, it’s mostly a gathering place for watching surfers and sunsets. It’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The day I took this photo, I arrived more than an hour before sunset to scout out a few different locations. Once I started shooting, I couldn’t believe how quickly the colors changed—from golden, to pink and purple, to a completely red sky. Hanalei Bay is quite large, and there are several different parking areas. I was so caught up in my photography mission I forgot to make a mental note of which direction my car was in. It was a long walk in the dark to find my car, but the photos were worth it.
Kua Bay (Big Island)

I happened upon this sunset purely by accident. My trip to the Big Island was over, and I was on my way to the Kona Airport to return my rental car and go home. I realized I had some extra time and noticed a turnoff to a beach. It was sunset time, so why not? Fortunately, I was there in February, so sunset was earlier than the access road’s closing time of 7pm. I walked down to the beach, set up my tripod on the black rocks, and was treated to the sun looking like a golden orb sizzling into the ocean. The turnoff to the beach is on the main highway about seven miles north of the Kona International Airport. Keep your fingers crossed for a parking space!
Pa’ako Beach (Maui)

When I lived on Maui, I had heard about the legendary Secret Cove, which is the informal name for Pa’ako Beach. But I had never quite figured out exactly where it was. It’s not easy to see, and the only way to get to it is through a rock wall. But one weeknight evening when the beaches were less busy, I managed to find it. And boy was the search worth it! In a matter of minutes, the sky turned stunning shades of purple and pink. This was before I started using editing software, so this photo is exactly as shot with my Nikon D5100—no editing, no filters. Secret Cove isn’t so secret anymore, but this is one of my all-time favorite Hawaii sunset photos.
Anini Beach (Kauai)

Many visitors take the road to Anini Beach and mistakenly stop at Kalihikai Beach Park, since it’s the first beach you come to. But Anini is actually about another mile down the road. Bordered by the longest fringing reef in the Hawaiian Islands, Anini is a popular place for beginner windsurfers. Towards the end of the road are a couple of idyllic sunset photo spots, where black lava rocks and palm trees frame the setting sun. Of all the photos I’ve shot in Hawaii, this is probably my favorite. Parking can be tricky, and you’ll likely need to walk to this area from farther down the road. Note that this is a residential area, so be respectful and don’t park in anyone’s yard or driveway.
Mokapu Beach (Maui)

South Maui is home to some of the best beaches in the Hawaiian Islands. (And yes, West Maui would like a word.) Mokapu is one of about ten beaches that dot the coast from south Kihei down through Wailea and to Makena. This palm tree provided a perfect frame for the sun as it dipped below the clouds at sunset. By the way, don’t miss the fantastic Wailea Beach Path that runs 1.6 miles each way and takes you past several beaches. I walked this path countless times when I lived in Kihei, and just talking about it makes me want to go back!
Waimea Pier (Kauai)

The west side of Kauai doesn’t get a lot of attention, as most visitors head to the more popular areas on the south and north shores. But don’t sleep on the little town of Waimea and its quiet local charm. One of my favorite places on the island to take sunset photos is Waimea Recreation Pier. With a history that dates back to 1865, the 600-foot pier attracts local fisherman and photographers alike. This is a black sand beach, so be aware that you won’t see turquoise waters like you typically do on north shore beaches. But the west-side location means you’ll have a front-row seat to watch the sun sink into the ocean.