Don’t Miss the Photo Spots on Oahu’s North Shore! 4 Recommended Locations

The northern coastline of Oahu is called the North Shore, and it offers a landscape different from Waikiki on the southern side. Known as the beach where big waves roll in, it’s truly a dream destination for surfers! The North Shore is also full of must-see photography spots.

Walking around the North Shore with a camera in hand, you’ll encounter views that will make you want to press the shutter instantly. That alone is enough reason to visit! Here are four recommended photo spots so you can capture great shots.

1. Tantalus Lookout

If you’re looking for the best photo spot on the North Shore, start with “Tantalus Lookout.” Located within Puu Ualakaa State Park on Mount Tantalus, there’s an observation deck where you can enjoy spectacular views of Diamond Head, the cityscape, and the deep blue ocean.

Not only is the daytime scenery beautiful, but the night view from here is the best in the North Shore area! It’s an ideal photography spot where you can gaze at the sparkling night lights of Hawaii—Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor—shining like jewels.

Since the road has many curves, if you plan to go after dark, it’s best to take a taxi or join a hotel tour.

2. Ehukai Pillbox

One of the most breathtaking viewpoints on the North Shore is from the Ehukai Pillbox. From Kamehameha Highway, take a small path into the forest, and soon you’ll find a fork in the trail. Taking the left path leads to a concrete structure called a “pillbox.” The view from here is great, but keep going further.

At the rocky outcrop ahead lies the second pillbox. From here, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of Sunset Beach—one of the best photography locations in the North Shore. The endless expanse of blue looks less like marine blue and more like a glowing sapphire. The sunset here is also beautiful, making late afternoon a great time to visit.

3. Dole Plantation

The “Dole Plantation” is a tourist attraction operated by the famous fruit and juice company DOLE. It features vast pineapple fields and plenty of photography opportunities.

You can ride a train through the expansive fields, enjoy pineapple soft serve, and even explore a pineapple-shaped maze. The red and yellow pineapple trains are especially cute and perfect for photos! There are also exclusive souvenirs you can only find here, making it a fun spot for creating North Shore memories.

To get there, take H-1 from Waikiki towards Wahiawa, then H-2 Freeway. It’s located along Kamehameha Highway on the way to the North Shore.

4. Laniakea Beach

The fourth recommended photo spot on the North Shore is “Laniakea Beach” in Haleiwa. Known for its stunning ocean and waves, it’s a place where you’ll want to spend the whole day.

Wild sea turtles can often be seen here up close—making it a prime photography spot. Watching them bask in the sun is surprisingly relaxing.

When visiting, follow these rules: do not cross the red rope boundary around the turtles, do not touch them, and do not feed them. They are more likely to appear in the afternoon, so plan your visit then if possible.

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced some of the best photography spots on the North Shore. Beyond these, there are still plenty of great places to take amazing shots. Be sure to visit and find your own perfect photo locations on the North Shore.