As one of the top beaches, this affluent shoreline is home to some of the softest sand and bluest water — not only in Hawaii, but all around the world. As the sun rises so close to this beach, you'll have beautiful, golden light during your shoots and an unmatched view of the "Mokes" islands.
Plan
Overview
Skill level
Easy
Accessbility
Public Location
Hours
Anytime
Fee
Free
Pack
Wide-angle lens (16mm)
Tripod
Swimwear
Sunscreen
Jacket (if visiting before sunrise)
Water
Towel
How to get there
N21° 23' 05.3988"W157° 42' 36.1008"
I took this picture at the end of "Ocean Access 10" beach access along Lanikai Beach, with a view of Moku Nui and Moku Iki (also known as the "Mokes") as the Lanikai Canoe Club paddled by.
If you're coming from Honolulu, take the H1 East Bound and then take the Pali Highway cut off toward Kailua. Once you reach Kailua town you'll continue to drive straight on Kailua Road to South Kalaheo Avenue. Then, you'll turn right and drive by Kalapawai Market onto Lihiwai Road, which will turn into Kawailoa Road and then you'll pass Kailua Beach Park on the left toward Alala Road. Once you hit Alala Road, turn left at the four-way stop towards Mokulua Drive to Aalapapa Drive.
This community is a one-way loop, so you'll need to turn left onto Pokole Way and then find parking near "Ocean Access 10" beach access towards Lanikai Beach.
Once you find parking, walk out and to the right you'll see an opening and a sign that says "Ocean Access 10". Walk down the sandy path towards the ocean and you're there! If you're having trouble finding the location, reference the GPS coordinates and you'll come to exact point where I stood for this photo.
Tips
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Learn more about the locations and
how to get the best pictures including:
Best times to go
Current weather conditions and times around twilight