It doesn’t matter whether you’re an amateur photographer, using a smartphone, or are a seasoned pro with all the gear and gadgets. If you are someone who gets joy out of taking photos, Maui should be on your travel bucket list. The island offers endless opportunities to snap nature, wildlife, culture, and some great memories!
Read on for some photography tips and must-see spots for shutterbugs eager to capture the essence of Maui.
Sunrise at Haleakalā Crater
If you’re heading out for the day with your camera, why not start your day at the Haleakalā National Park? Here, you’re sure to capture a magical sunrise from the summit of a dormant volcano. So, it’s not your average vacation sunrise pic!
Top Tips: Make sure you arrive early to secure a good vantage point. Also, prepare for chilly temperatures, as it can get quite cold higher up. As the sun peeks over the horizon, the whole crater will be bathed in golden light, so make sure you have your tripod at the ready.
Road to Hana
The Road to Hana offers you an amazing drive with plenty of opportunities for taking photographs. Along the winding road, you can stop at waterfalls and rainforests or take in the panoramic coastal views. The only question left to ask is what photos you want to get!
Top Tip: The road can be narrow and winding in places, so why not opt for a guided tour? This way, you can focus solely on the beauty surrounding you while someone else handles the driving.
Bamboo Forst Hike
The Pipiwai Trail takes you through a bamboo forest that feels like something out of a fairy tale. The large natural bamboo canopies, as well as stunning waterfalls, including the 400-foot Waimoku Falls. This trail offers a majesty to photograph around every corner.
Top Tip: The trails provides the perfect background to play around with shadow and light as the sun shines through the bamboo groves.
Beach Sunsets
Maui is well known for its beautiful sunsets. Vibrant hues and striking silhouettes are sure to make for some beautiful photos. Why not experiment with some long exposures to capture the fluid motion of the waves?
Top Tip: Stay at Outrigger Resorts to enjoy a luxurious stay for your vacation, but also because you’ll get stunning beach views, meaning you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture an iconic Maui sunset.
Wildlife Photography
Maui is home to a huge variety of wildlife. Why not try your hand at underwater photography? Go snorkeling or diving at Molokini Crater and try to capture the colorful corals, schools of tropical fish, or sea turtles.
Top Tip: From December to April, you can even catch humpback whales breaching into the ocean!
In Maui, you’ll want to ensure you always have your camera on you and ready to go. There is so much beauty all around, alongside authentic moments, that allow you to capture the real Hawaiian culture. If you follow these tips, you’ll be treated with unique photographic opportunities that tell the story of Maui’s people and traditions.
