Best Beaches on the Big Island for Family Photos
Kona, Hawai’i Family Photography Guide
Planning a family photo session during your vacation on the Hawai’i Island is a wonderful way to capture memories from your trip. The Big Island offers beautiful beaches with palm trees, lava rocks, and stunning ocean views that create a perfect backdrop for relaxed and natural family photos.
If you're visiting the Kona side of the island, there are several beaches that work especially well for family sessions. As a Big Island family photographer,
I often recommend locations that are easy to access, safe for kids, and have beautiful light for photos.
Here are some of the best beaches on the Big Island for family photos.
Anaehoʻomalu Bay (A-Bay) – Waikoloa
Anaehoʻomalu Bay, often called A-Bay, is one of the most popular beaches for family photos on the Kona coast.
This beach is known for its tall palm trees, wide sandy shoreline, and beautiful sunsets. It’s a great location for families because there is plenty of space for kids to walk, play, and explore while photos are taken naturally.
Morning sessions here are often very peaceful, with soft light and calm water reflections.
Kukiʻo Beach – Natural Lava Rock Coastline
Kukio Beach offers a beautiful mix of soft sand, lava rocks, and open ocean views.
This location has a very natural and peaceful feel. The lava rock formations create interesting textures and dramatic scenery that look amazing in photos.
Sunset sessions here are especially beautiful when the sky turns warm and golden.
Pauoa Bay – Elegant Beach Setting
Located near the Fairmont Orchid resort, Pauoa Bay is another beautiful location for family photos.
The beach has soft sand, calm water, and a peaceful atmosphere that works well for families with children. The surrounding lava rocks and tropical plants add a natural Hawaiian feeling to the scenery.
Because the bay is protected, the ocean is often calmer here, which makes it a comfortable environment for kids.
Mauna Lani Beach – Palm Trees & Golden Sunset Light
Mauna Lani Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches on the Kona coast.
This location has beautiful palm trees, lava rocks, and a wide ocean view. The sunset light here is soft and golden, which creates warm and romantic images.
Families love this beach because it feels relaxed and scenic while still being easy to access.
Old Kona Airport Beach – Space for Kids to Explore
Old Kona Airport Beach Park is a great option for families staying closer to town.
The beach area is very open, with lava rock shoreline, tide pools, and beautiful ocean views. Because there is so much space, kids can move around and explore while the session stays relaxed and fun.
Sunset light here can be especially dramatic as it reflects off the ocean and lava rocks.
Tips for Planning Family Photos on the Big Island
Here are a few simple tips to make your family photo session enjoyable:
Choose sunset or early morning.
The light is softer and the beaches are usually less crowded.
Wear light and neutral colors.
Soft tones photograph beautifully against the ocean and sand.
Keep the session relaxed.
Kids often do best when they can move, laugh, and play naturally.
Plan your session during your vacation.
Many families visiting Kona, Hawaii love scheduling a short beach session to capture memories from their trip.
Big Island Family Photographer
If you’re visiting the Hawai’i and thinking about family photos, I would love to help capture your memories. As a Kona, Hawai’i family photographer, I enjoy creating relaxed and natural photo sessions at some of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
Feel free to reach out if you’d like help choosing the perfect beach for your family session.
