Which beach is best to have photos done?

Never be mislead by the statement by any photographer on Maui or Hawaii for that matter, that they are going to photograph you at a private beach.  There is no such thing as a private beach in Hawaii, as State laws require that all of the shoreline be accessible by the public.  If the shoreline access is on private land, than that landowner has to provide a cleared path for the public to access the shoreline, and must prevent anything from happening to that access (like overgrown vegetation or personal furniture, or permanent structures).  

So now that you know that all shorelines (that means all beaches) are public, don't every let a photographer fool you into thinking you are going to a private beach.  Yes, there are beaches that are less busy, not county parks, and have less people on them.  But here's the thing... these "private" beaches, end up on people's social media and then become really busy beaches.  Take Whiterock beach for example.  At the very tail end of Wailea, this beach was not popular at all about 2 years ago.  Now, most south shore photographers use that location to have photoshoots.  It's becoming increasingly difficult to park there and find a spot for a large family photoshoot at sunset.

Is it because its private?  No.  It's because a lot of people think that because it's not a county beach park, there won't be that many people there.  Well, Whiterock is a popular destination beach, with a glorious porta potty, and a short walk through the kiawe trees.  The beach is nice with a panoramic view of Kaho'olawe, Molokini Crater, Lana'i, and West Maui Mountains.  But it is also filled with visitors and locals alike!  

But the best beaches to have your photos taken are the ones that are closest to you, that are locations permissible to be photographed on (we all have to get permits for photography on the beach), and the one that your photographer recommends.  

My favorite beaches are actually the ones that are county parks.  Because they have amenities! (like parking, restrooms, showers, pathways, and sometimes ADA pathways)  When I'm photographing families, I want to make sure there is a proper restroom near by, and a shower!  Because kids like to get dirty, and moms like to get those emotive photos in the water, and you never know when an accident might happen, where you'll need a restroom.  Plus, the restroom is a private enough spot for a change of outfits during longer sunset sessions.  

And because people flock to the "private" beaches for photoshoots, the public ones end up being really empty.  Which means less editing of people in the backgrounds, and a full, open space to play, run, walk and be at the beach!  When you book a session a with me, I'll cater our beach location to your needs and wants!