Turtle Bay Photo Session: North Shore Family Photos on Oahu

Staying at Turtle Bay and wondering about photos while you’re here? The North Shore is a beautiful part of the island to photograph — rocky coastline, far fewer people, and beautiful morning light. I’m Marissa, a Native Hawaiian family photographer born and raised on Oahu, and I photograph families at Turtle Bay year-round.

Package details may vary, so it’s best to reach out for current collections.

READY TO BOOK? CLICK HERE or email marissa.hbphoto@gmail.com

Why Turtle Bay is a great location for family, maternity, or couples photos

Turtle Bay sits about an hour from Waikiki, and that distance is exactly the point. The beaches here aren’t crowded at sunrise. There’s no hotel skyline behind you. You get rugged shoreline, ironwood and palm trees, tide pools, and a beautiful ocean — the Hawaii that people picture before they arrive.

For guests staying at the resort, it’s even simpler: your session is a short walk from your room, and you’re back before breakfast with the whole day ahead of you. If you prefer sunset, keep in mind there are many beachgoers at this time!

Where we’ll shoot

Kuilima Cove — the protected cove right at the resort. Calm, sheltered water, soft sand, and easy access for little ones.

The point and coastal path — dramatic rocky shoreline, crashing water, and long views. Great for older kids, couples, and anyone who wants the more rugged North Shore look. This is right next to the cove where everyone swims.

Sunrise or sunset at Turtle Bay?

Both work here, which isn’t true everywhere on the island.

Sunrise is my usual recommendation — the sun rises on this side of the island and it is very pretty.

Sunset gets pretty crowded, but it is an option if you really need to do sunset! Keep in mind jet lag should work to your advantage if you’re traveling from the mainland.

What to wear

Soft, coordinating colors work best against the North Shore’s blues and greens — creams, sage, dusty blue, warm neutrals. Texture is key! Stay away from pure crisp white- instead find off white or outfits with texture. Flowing fabrics move beautifully in the trade winds, which are stronger up here than in Waikiki which is something to keep in mind!

Booked families get my style & vendor guide with outfit ideas and shopping links. I always recommend picking up a lei po’o from a local lei maker is the perfect finishing touch — it also keeps hair out of your face in the wind.

How to book

1. Send me your dates. Contact me here with your travel dates, group size, and where you’re staying.

2. We’ll pick your location and time. I’ll recommend the spot and time of day that fits your family.

3. Get your prep guide. Exact meeting location, timing, parking, and outfit help — then just show up.

Turtle Bay photo session FAQs

We’re staying in Waikiki — is it worth driving up? Honestly, no, if you want a different look than everyone else’s Hawaii photos there are other locations on the island that will work well that are closer to you.

Can you photograph our whole extended family? Absolutely — large groups are some of my favorite sessions. I’ve photographed extended families of up to 30 people. Here’s a look at an extended family – LINK COMING SOON.

What if it rains? North Shore showers usually pass in minutes. I watch the weather closely and we adjust location or timing as needed if it decides to pour for more than 10 minutes.

Do you offer mini sessions at Turtle Bay? I do not offer mini sessions at turtle bay unless you are traveling with a friend who is also interested in doing a mini session. Mini sessions are typically done back to back with another client, so they are usually in Waikiki or Ko Olina where most families/clients are staying.

Are you affiliated with the resort? I’m an independent local photographer — you’re booking a Native Hawaiian artist who photographs across the island, and we shoot on the public beaches around the resort. I do have a photography permit for photo sessions.

What time were these photos done? These images were done in the morning. The images at the bottom were done at the very end of golden hour.

Ready to plan your North Shore session?

If you’re staying at Turtle Bay or making the drive up, I’d love to photograph your family on my favorite coastline on Oahu. Inquire here with your dates — I respond personally, usually within hours and always the same day.

Want more detail on North Shore sessions? Visit my Turtle Bay family photographer page.