Best sunrise and sunset views on Oahu!

A stunning sunset reflects in tide pools at China Walls

The best thing about being on a small island? You have easy access to epic sunrise and sunset destinations! This island truly is a photographers paradise! We caught sunrise or sunset most days and explored different beaches, shores and view points but here is a list of my absolute favourites:

Ka’ena point

Located on the very Western tip of Oahu, if you are out this way, this is an obvious spot to catch sunset. A dirt trail meanders along the coast all the way out to Ka’ena Point, which is a neat walk in itself: jagged rocks and crashing waves, watch for Monk Seals sunning themselves and at the very end there is an Albatross nesting ground. We wandered along the coast until we found an interesting rock formation above the ocean where we could watch the water swirl and splash as the sun sank below the horizon. Another neat feature along this stretch of coast is a heart shaped hole in the rock formation.

This destination is the farthest one from Honolulu, so plan to make a day of it: pack a picnic, explore the nearby beaches (I would suggest Makua or Yokohama), hike the trail to Ka’ena Point and then settle in for a sunset show.

Sandy beach

There is no better way to start the day than catching a sunrise at Sandy’s. This beach is a quick drive East from Honolulu, making it a perfect sunrise location. From the parking lot, wander along the sandy shores or head right to find some neat rock formations where the waves crash over the jagged rocks. Once the sun has risen, sit back and watch the body boarders catch the shore break. Note do not get in the water here unless you know what you are doing, this is a very dangerous shore break.

China walls

This was our number one go to spot for sunset! It is a hidden gem without the crowds and was a quick drive from Honolulu. We never caught a bad sunset here and the tidal pools on the cliff edges created the perfect conditions to reflect the sunset skies. Even on the days when the colours faded quickly, it is a peaceful spot to watch the waves rolling and crashing as daylight fades to dusk and the first stars appear. Following the rocky shores can allow you to find a quiet spot all to yourself but be mindful of large rogue waves and slippery rocks as you explore.

Beach road

This sunset spot was almost an accidental find: a short dead end road with minimal parking leads to a small stretch of beach and calm tidal pools. If there is no parking left, just head further down the road to Diamond Head Beach Park to catch the sunset and watch surfers catch the last few waves of the day.

wai’alae beach park

An easy beach park to access from Honolulu with green fields lined with palm trees leading down to a sandy beach. If you head to your left, you will find an idyllic tropical island with two palm trees which makes for an excellent focal point in a sunrise photo. We found this beach to be pretty quiet, often having the place to ourselves in the mornings.