Oahu's Viral Locations

Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens

This is one of those locations that has become so viral it's hard to get to get a photo here. The palm tree road is at the entrance to the garden... the problem is it's completely off limits to photographers. There is literally a guard that stands there from sunrise to closing making sure no one takes pictures here. The entrance alone is considered "private property" and for that reason, no photos can be taken there. You CAN get in big trouble for shooting here, so enter at your own risk. For us, it's always been up to luck. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to try if you decide its worth it. The rest of the gardens, however, is completely open for everyone to enjoy and is becoming more viral. There is a small road at the far side of the gardens that has been gaining popularity and is equally as beautiful!

Kaaawa Beach

This tiny beach is just off the road on the East side of Oahu. For best lighting go between sunrise and 8 in the morning. Make sure the tide is low otherwise most of the beach will be swallowed by water!

It's more of a drone spot in our opinion, but cameras work great here too! The palm tree and mountain in the backdrop are what make this location so picturesque.

Stairway to Heaven

This might be Oahu's most viral location. The sad thing is it's been voted to be taken down. We're still not sure when this is happening, but in our opinion the hike isn't worth it anymore. If you get caught, you could be charged with a $1,000 dollar fine or worse, jail time.

Kuli'ou'ou Camping Spot

I would say this is a more "off the beaten path" viral location. Not many people come here and your almost guaranteed to have this spot to yourself. There's a select few people who would actually do the climb up to get the shot. Kuli'ou'ou is already a very long and hard hike. Adding the extra few miles to get here is rough, but in our opinion, worth it.

Palm Tree Forest at Dilingham Ranch

We did this one time and it was such a fun experience, but is considered trespassing. Be aware, because cops can be called. Another danger is the falling coconuts that could potentially hurt you. Keep an eye and an ear out because one knock on the head and your probably dead. With that said, the palm tree forest is exceptionally beautiful and best to visit for sunset, but enter at your own risk.

Palm Tree Shadows at Waimanalo

Some of Oahu's more viral beach photos come from this beach. It's gotten quite popular, but what makes these photos pop is the composition and time of day you choose to shoot. There are so many photos you can get here. We have a couple photos from here that have done really well. It's one of our favorite beaches on the whole island.

Boat Dock at Moli'i Pond

The mysterious dock that everyone asks us about is an easily accessible spot. It's located at "Secret Island" (just tyoe it into Google Maps) down the right side of the beach facing China Man's hat. Best to go at sunrise before all the tourists arrive. As long as you leave when the workers arrive, they don't really mind in our experience.

Palms at the Hilton

This is one of those instagram vs. reality photos, because these palm tree's are literally located along side a walking path next to the Hilton. It's crowded and can only be shot with a zoom lens. This exact photo has been a viral one that people don't even know they walk by all the time.

Our friend, Brad Flowerdew @bradflowerss took this photo.

Sunset Beach Palm

Although, we think this one is quite a bit overrated now, it's still a popular spot to shoot. Obviously, the best time to shoot here is sunset, so expect to see a ton of crowds. Located to the right of the entrance.

Lanikai Pillbox

I think this hike is the most popular on the whole island. It's easy, short and has amazing views of the Mokes below. The most popular time for this hike is sunrise, but its a nice hike to do any time of the day. Be aware that it is fully exposed, so water and sunblock are a must.