The Best Sunsets on The Big Island


The Big Island of Hawaii is known for its diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to rugged volcanic terrain. However, when it comes to capturing breathtaking sunset photos, the island’s white sandy beaches provide the perfect backdrop. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just looking to snap a beautiful shot for your Instagram, here are some of the best beaches to visit for that golden hour glow.


1. Hapuna Beach


Located on the Kohala Coast, Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sandy beaches on the Big Island. Its wide expanse of soft sand and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal location for sunset photography. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky often lights up in hues of pink, orange, and purple, providing a mesmerizing canvas for your photos. The wide, unobstructed views here ensure you’ll capture every detail of the setting sun.


Pro Tip: Arrive early to explore the beach and find the perfect spot. The rocks at the north end provide a dramatic contrast to the soft sand and can add an interesting focal point to your images.


2. Kauna’oa Beach (Mauna Kea Beach)


Kauna’oa Beach, often referred to as Mauna Kea Beach, is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach that boasts soft white sand and gentle waves. Located in front of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, it offers an upscale, serene setting that’s perfect for sunset photography. The beach’s natural beauty combined with the surrounding palm trees and the soft glow of the setting sun creates a peaceful, romantic atmosphere.


Pro Tip: Capture the silhouettes of palm trees against the vibrant sunset for a classic tropical photo. The soft reflection of the sunset on the water will add a magical touch to your shots.


3. Waialea Bay (Beach 69)


Waialea Bay, affectionately known as Beach 69, is another Kohala Coast gem. This beach is lined with shady trees and offers a more intimate setting than some of the larger beaches. The white sand, combined with the calm, turquoise waters, provides a serene environment for sunset photos. The western-facing beach ensures you have a perfect view as the sun sets directly into the ocean.


Pro Tip: For a unique perspective, incorporate the natural rock formations along the shore into your compositions. These can add depth and texture to your sunset photos, giving them a more artistic feel.


4. Spencer Beach Park


If you’re looking for a family-friendly spot with great sunset views, Spencer Beach Park is an excellent choice. Located just north of Kawaihae Harbor, it offers calm waters, ample shade, and a soft sandy beach. The sunsets here are often vibrant, with rich colors reflecting off the water and the clouds. Spencer Beach Park is also less crowded than some of the more popular spots, making it easier to find a quiet place to set up your camera.


Pro Tip: Bring a tripod and experiment with long-exposure shots as the sun sets. The smooth, gentle waves and the pastel sky can create a dreamy, ethereal effect in your photos.


5. Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay)


Manini’owali Beach, also known as Kua Bay, is a photographer’s dream. With its powdery white sand, vibrant turquoise waters, and rugged lava rock formations, this beach provides endless possibilities for creative shots. The sunsets here are particularly spectacular, with the sky often exploding in a stunning array of colors. Whether you’re capturing the sun reflecting off the water or using the rocks for an artistic foreground, Kua Bay is a must-visit for sunset photography.


Pro Tip: Don’t rush to leave right after sunset. The afterglow can be just as beautiful, with softer colors lingering in the sky and offering a more subdued, peaceful vibe for your photos.


6. Kukio Beach


For a more secluded and exclusive experience, Kukio Beach is a hidden gem along the Kona Coast. This beach is known for its luxury resorts, but the public access offers stunning sunset views with far fewer crowds. The combination of white sand, black lava rocks, and calm waters creates a striking contrast that adds drama to your sunset photos. Plus, the golden hour light makes everything look extra magical here.


Pro Tip: Use the lava rocks in your foreground for a strong composition, framing the sunset in the background for a dynamic shot. The combination of textures will make your photos stand out.


Final Thoughts


The Big Island offers some of the most stunning locations in the world for sunset photography. Whether you’re photographing for personal memories or to expand your portfolio, these beaches offer everything you need to create magical, unforgettable images.


If you are considering a beautiful photoshoot on the gorgeous beaches, reach out and lets get planning!