If you’re wondering how to find the most photographable locations in Oahu, Hawaii – look no further. While I certainly don’t recommend going to places just for the picture, each and every one of these locations in Oahu was most incredibly enjoyable, and also a great opportunity to take amazing photos. That being said, keep reading for the most Instagrammable places in Oahu!
ARVO Cafe
If you haven’t seen ARVO Cafe on Instagram, have you really been on Instagram?
Okay all joking aside, I had seen incredible photos of ARVO cafe and was convinced we had to try it when we were in Honolulu. In the rare case when reality exceeds expectations, the cafe was just as adorable as I imagined, and the food was incredible. If you need directions and are too lazy to type it in Google Maps, just click here.
If you’re wondering what to order, I highly recommend the avocado toast and decorated lattes.
Kakaako Neighborhood
I actually had to do quite a bit of research about the Kakaako neighborhood in Honolulu before going there, and we still managed to get lost on the way. Kakaako is filled with cafes, restaurants and most importantly – incredible art.
You can find painted walls in Kakaako, which are incredible photo opportunities for Instagram and make for a really fun time exploring this neighborhood. If you’re not sure where to start, look up the SALT Complex and start wandering the streets around it.
Crouching Lion Trail
Oahu is known for its killer view, and the Crouching Lion Hike is no exception. The hike itself is fairly steep but not incredibly difficult, and you are rewarded with amazing views all along the way. I actually found out about this hike through seeing photos of the Crouching Lion Trail on Instagram, and it was one of the ones I enjoyed the most. The really mind-blowing photos are usually taken at the top of the trail, but there are plenty of lookouts on the way up if you need a little motivation to keep going!
Want to know even more about what’s in this area and how to plan your Oahu trip? Check out my travel guide for Oahu, Hawaii.
Lanikai Pillbox Hike
Lanikai Beach is one of the most spectacular beaches on Oahu, which gives you even more reason to head there for a day of sun and fun, as well as an incredible hike. The Lanikai Pillbox Hike earned its name from the pillbox buildings found at the top, but the real photographable show-stopper is the view itself. At the top of the hike, you have an incredible view of Lanikai Beach and the surrounding city, and it’s definitely worth the climb.
You have probably seen photos from Lanikai on Instagram, especially from the edge of one off the pillboxes, which makes it look like the subject is way up in the air (don’t worry, they’re not!)
Helicopters
While definitely the most expensive place to photograph on this list, Hawaii helicopter tours are very popular for good reason. If you choose to go doors off (you should), you have an incredible view of Oahu’s major tourist sites and landmarks from the air.
I will admit it’s fairly hard to snap photographs with the wind whipping in your face, but the experience is incredible the photos are definitely worth it.
Diamond Head Hike
One of the most popular hikes on Oahu, the Diamond Head Hike offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding nature. The hike is paved and very family friendly, which means you will probably have to hike up early for unobscured photos or wait your turn after the thousands of tourists. Either way, the photos are killer and the hike itself is really fun. Not a hiker? There are also some great views of Diamond Head from many of the best restaurants in Waikiki.
North Shore Food Trucks
The North Shore Food Trucks give a whole new meaning to eating on the go. If you want incredible food that the locals love, the North Shore is the place to be. If you stop by one of the food carts, you’ll likely be treated to tasty food with a great view of the North Shore beaches, all of which offer great photo opportunities.
Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden
The Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden is one of Oahu’s most photographed and most naturally beautiful sites (in my opinion). You can often find locals jogging in the garden, which has a main paved road that also allows cars to enter. You should be warned that while everyone is welcome at the garden, the guard highly discourages taking photos in the middle of the road so you’ll have to be sneaky when getting these shots for instagram.
Manoa Falls
Manoa Falls is really close to Honolulu, making it an easy day-trip. The hike itself is very easy but often muddy, so you should plan on wearing comfortable shoes.
We took lots of photos along the way, but the most famous photos of Manoa Falls on Instagram include the actual waterfall, which you will find at the end of the trail.
Kualoa Ranch
Home to Jurassic Park and a bunch of other movies, Kualoa Ranch is famous not only on Instagram but also on the big screen. The park itself is MASSIVE and offers endless photo opportunities ranging from horses to extreme mountain views.
There are guided tours of Kualoa Ranch that are fairly expensive, but they’re definitely not necessary to get some amazing photos. We chose to bypass the tour and instead just wander around, and we found plenty of amazing spots to photograph along the way.
What to Wear for Amazing Instagram Photos
Wondering what to wear for your Hawaii instagram photos? Look no further – I have a whole post on what to wear in Hawaii, including clothes that will look great and be comfortable (because let’s be real, you won’t be smiling for the gram if all you’re thinking about is changing out of those shoes).
That wraps it up for this Instagram Guide to Oahu – hopefully this inspired you to take some amazing photos, as well as to enjoy the experience along the way!