As a kid growing up in south Florida, my family went to Disney World—a lot. My favorite ride at the Magic Kingdom was It’s a Small World, a water-based tour that takes you past animatronic dolls representing cultures around the world. I remember sitting in the boat and floating past “Hawaii,” with its dancing hula girls and erupting volcanoes. I was fascinated and knew I wanted to go there someday.
Many years after those Disney trips, I finally took my first trip to Hawaii. Since it was only a one-week trip, I decided to pick one island rather than try to do multiple islands in such a short time period. I chose Kauai, mostly because of the photos I had seen of the Na Pali Coast.
It’s funny now to think about all the different cameras I’ve been through since that first trip back in 2000. From my Canon A2 film camera to my first digital camera in 2007, and several other Nikon and Canon DSLRs since then. With its dramatic cliffs and lush landscapes, the “Garden Island” is the perfect place to get stunning landscape photos. Here are my top six Kauai photo spots:
Waimea Pier (West 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 overlook the Waimea area and its quiet local charm. One of my favorite places on Kauai to take sunset photos is Waimea Recreation Pier. With a history that dates back to 1865, the 600-foot pier attracts local fishermen and photographers alike. This is a black sand beach, so don’t expect the clear turquoise waters of the north shore beaches. But the west-side location means you’ll have a front-row seat to watch the sun sink into the ocean.
Kalalau Overlook (West Kauai)
The Kalalau Overlook is something you must see to believe. In fact, I’ll go as far as to say that this view alone will make your trip to Kauai worth every penny you paid for it. Stop at the Kalalau Overlook for your first glimpse of the coast but then continue a mile farther to the Pu’u O Kila Lookout, which has an even more dramatic view. The views often get socked in with clouds, but if you arrive when it’s foggy, just wait a while. Sometimes just when you’re ready to give up and leave, the clouds break and the surreal scene reveals itself. Going in the morning increases your chances of having a clear view.
Hanalei Pier (North Shore)
Hanalei Pier is located on one of the most scenic bays in all the Hawaiian Islands. Until 1933, the pier primarily 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 the photo below, I arrived more than an hour before sunset to scout out a few 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.
Anini Beach (North Shore)
Bordered by the longest fringing reef in the Hawaiian Islands, Anini Beach 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, the one below is my favorite. When you take Anini Road, it’s easy to mistakenly stop at Kalihikai Beach Park, since it’s the first beach you come to. But Anini Beach is actually about another mile down the road. This is a residential area, so you’ll need to walk there from farther down the road. Be respectful and don’t park in or block anyone’s yard or driveway.
Kilauea Lighthouse (North Shore)
The view of Kilauea Lighthouse is a classic vista on Kauai’s north shore. Built in 1913, the lighthouse stands on a dramatic peninsula above the blue waters of the Pacific. It’s also the site of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), home to one of the largest populations of nesting seabirds, including the Laysan albatross. Between December and May, you might even spot humpback whales from the viewpoint. There is an admission fee for visiting the NWR, which is definitely worth paying, but it’s free to stand at the lighthouse viewing point.
Maha’ulepu Coast (South Shore)
On the south coast of Kauai near the town of Poipu is a hidden gem: the Maha’ulepu Heritage Coastal Trail. The trail follows the last stretch of coastline on the south shore that remains undeveloped. The coastal landscape includes limestone cliffs, lithified sand dunes (sand dunes that have hardened into rock), and a couple of remote isolated beaches. Not far from here is Kipu Kai Beach, the location of the plane wreck scene in the movie Six Days, Seven Nights.
