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Headed to Hawaii -- let's talk gear / locations
- Thread starter ahsanford
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And a couple from Honolulu/Waikiki...
By the way, if I recall correctly, winter time is Big Waves time so you may have ome nice oppotunities of North shore, where there are some surf competitions I think. However, I don't know if this may make snorkelling harder...
By the way, if I recall correctly, winter time is Big Waves time so you may have ome nice oppotunities of North shore, where there are some surf competitions I think. However, I don't know if this may make snorkelling harder...
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Personally, I use my 17-40L a lot for landscape, especially waterscapes, usually near the wider end. It gives a dynamic look that's different than just stitching multiple shots together, but of course that look isn't for everyone.
Others have covered many of the spots I'd recommend, but here's a few more:
Lanai Lookout on the Windward side, right off the road. Lots of signs at the parking lot telling you not to hop the fence, but everyone does it anyway. Just be careful, as the rocks can get slippery and rogue waves can crash over the rocks.
Eternity beach near the Holona blowhole.
Papa'iloa Beach - Not sure of the name, as I also heard it called Police Beach, but then someone else told me Police Beach was somewhere else...but anyway, on the north shore find Papa'Iloa road, go the end and park where you'll probably see several other cars. There will be a narrow walkway between houses to the beach. You'll probably have it mostly to yourselves, except for a couple of locals, maybe some surfers. Head to the left, and depending on tide/time of year you may see some cool mossy volcanic rocks exposed. This is where the Lost beach camp was, which we accidentally ran into. I've also seen turtles sunning here almost every time I've been there, but that may just be luck.
Makapuu Lighthouse trail (someone posted a pic from near it above, but I think named it).
Kualoa Ranch - This is a tourist spot, with guided tours. I don't like that part, but it's a pretty beautiful valley. Lots of filming has been done there and you may recognize it from shows/movies like Lost, Godzilla (footprints are still there).
Manoa Falls - Near Waikiki, up into the hills; I can't recall how long the hike was, but it was pretty easy. Take bug spray! Might be a bit crowded in the middle of the day. Better to go after a rain (but it'll be a little muddy), as I've heard it can be dry depending on the season.
Kawela Bay - Nice little bay, which I've rarely seen anyone else there except when I once ran into Lost filming, and another time into filming of one of the chipmunk movies, lol. You can make the long (but nice) walk from Turtle Bay, or park along 83 at the fruit stands. Across the road from the fruit stands is a gate with a sign about private property and no entrance, but the locals all told me that was a BS sign that Turtle Bay put up; the spot is public, but they agreed to pay for upkeep of the area, so the less people there, the less they have to maintain it. There's a short walk from parking to the water through a cool banyan tree grove (which, by the way, there's a map to from Turtle Bay, so if you're staying there they'll gladly tell you how to get there). From the bay, there's a nice walk around the NE side, through trees and around the point. Eventually you pass a small abandoned military bunker/observation building, and then hit the Turtle Bay Resort.
Olomana Three Peaks Trail - I've seen some amazing shots from it, but it looks too dangerous for me to try.
Spitting Cave of Portlock - It's hard to find, but a pretty cool spot. Might be hard to really compose good shots.
If it rains, I've heard you should head over to the windward side Kaneohe/Kailua and get a view of new waterfalls off the mountains. Not sure if that's true, I've never experienced rain there in several visits.
Someone above said to stay away from the west side because of the car break-ins. I hadn't heard that, but in my visits it defintely seemed more remote and 'local-friendly.' I'd still at least drive it and maybe take some shots near the car, as the hills and beaches on that side were pretty spectacular. I really enjoyed shooting at one of the beaches there; can't recall the name, but I think it's near the NW tip, where the road goes from paved to dirt.
Unsolicited, non-photography tips: I really suggest stopping at one of the Giovanni's shrimp trucks on the north shore, one of the shave ice places on the north shore like Waiola or Matsumoto's, and don't be afraid to check Hotwire for car rental prices. A few years ago I went 3 times, and got $9.95/day twice (midsize), and $12.95/day once (midsize, but they were out, got a free upgrade to a luxury car). Also, I'd re-iterate what others have said about being careful of break-ins; you'll see broken glass at parking spots. Besides not leaving anything valuable in the open, I'd also be careful about what people can see you doing in a parking lot, like putting valuables in the trunk where others may be watching.
Others have covered many of the spots I'd recommend, but here's a few more:
Lanai Lookout on the Windward side, right off the road. Lots of signs at the parking lot telling you not to hop the fence, but everyone does it anyway. Just be careful, as the rocks can get slippery and rogue waves can crash over the rocks.
Eternity beach near the Holona blowhole.
Papa'iloa Beach - Not sure of the name, as I also heard it called Police Beach, but then someone else told me Police Beach was somewhere else...but anyway, on the north shore find Papa'Iloa road, go the end and park where you'll probably see several other cars. There will be a narrow walkway between houses to the beach. You'll probably have it mostly to yourselves, except for a couple of locals, maybe some surfers. Head to the left, and depending on tide/time of year you may see some cool mossy volcanic rocks exposed. This is where the Lost beach camp was, which we accidentally ran into. I've also seen turtles sunning here almost every time I've been there, but that may just be luck.
Makapuu Lighthouse trail (someone posted a pic from near it above, but I think named it).
Kualoa Ranch - This is a tourist spot, with guided tours. I don't like that part, but it's a pretty beautiful valley. Lots of filming has been done there and you may recognize it from shows/movies like Lost, Godzilla (footprints are still there).
Manoa Falls - Near Waikiki, up into the hills; I can't recall how long the hike was, but it was pretty easy. Take bug spray! Might be a bit crowded in the middle of the day. Better to go after a rain (but it'll be a little muddy), as I've heard it can be dry depending on the season.
Kawela Bay - Nice little bay, which I've rarely seen anyone else there except when I once ran into Lost filming, and another time into filming of one of the chipmunk movies, lol. You can make the long (but nice) walk from Turtle Bay, or park along 83 at the fruit stands. Across the road from the fruit stands is a gate with a sign about private property and no entrance, but the locals all told me that was a BS sign that Turtle Bay put up; the spot is public, but they agreed to pay for upkeep of the area, so the less people there, the less they have to maintain it. There's a short walk from parking to the water through a cool banyan tree grove (which, by the way, there's a map to from Turtle Bay, so if you're staying there they'll gladly tell you how to get there). From the bay, there's a nice walk around the NE side, through trees and around the point. Eventually you pass a small abandoned military bunker/observation building, and then hit the Turtle Bay Resort.
Olomana Three Peaks Trail - I've seen some amazing shots from it, but it looks too dangerous for me to try.
Spitting Cave of Portlock - It's hard to find, but a pretty cool spot. Might be hard to really compose good shots.
If it rains, I've heard you should head over to the windward side Kaneohe/Kailua and get a view of new waterfalls off the mountains. Not sure if that's true, I've never experienced rain there in several visits.
Someone above said to stay away from the west side because of the car break-ins. I hadn't heard that, but in my visits it defintely seemed more remote and 'local-friendly.' I'd still at least drive it and maybe take some shots near the car, as the hills and beaches on that side were pretty spectacular. I really enjoyed shooting at one of the beaches there; can't recall the name, but I think it's near the NW tip, where the road goes from paved to dirt.
Unsolicited, non-photography tips: I really suggest stopping at one of the Giovanni's shrimp trucks on the north shore, one of the shave ice places on the north shore like Waiola or Matsumoto's, and don't be afraid to check Hotwire for car rental prices. A few years ago I went 3 times, and got $9.95/day twice (midsize), and $12.95/day once (midsize, but they were out, got a free upgrade to a luxury car). Also, I'd re-iterate what others have said about being careful of break-ins; you'll see broken glass at parking spots. Besides not leaving anything valuable in the open, I'd also be careful about what people can see you doing in a parking lot, like putting valuables in the trunk where others may be watching.
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IMG_0001 said:
I believe you're right. The gf and I were in Maui in December a few years back and the waves were bad. Still, she HAD to go snorkeling so we tried it. The rental people were saying how it was fine, great time, etc., but we couldn't see a thing, and the waves bashed my gf against sharp coral and she cut her legs up a bit. Fortunately we returned out equipment quickly and got our money back. Later, I was told by some locals that it wasn't a good time for snorkeling, and not to trust the rental people
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Great thread! We are planning to visit Hawaii either this summer or in 2015, so I'm bookmarking this thread for ideas.
We will need to go there in June or July. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this time of year in Hawaii?
Thanks
We will need to go there in June or July. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this time of year in Hawaii?
Thanks
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All -- I thought I'd resuscitate this thread as I just got a question on how the trip went.
In short, it was a blast.
Pics attached. Oahu is gorgeous. Thanks for all the help in nailing down what to bring and where to go!
- A
In short, it was a blast.
Pics attached. Oahu is gorgeous. Thanks for all the help in nailing down what to bring and where to go!
- A
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I just re-read this thread for photo ideas and decided to post something to see if anybody has anything new to add.
My wife and I are taking our two sons, ages 4 and 17 in June for 3 weeks. We will be splitting time between Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island. This is a family vacation. My wife and boys are pretty tolerant of my photography, but I work hard to not let it get in the way of having fun. My normal vacation routine is for me to get up super early, while they are still sleeping, do most of my landscape photography and then not do anything to keep them waiting during the day and evening.
I'm planning to take the following equipment:
I currently plan to leave the following at home:
I hate leaving the 300 at home, since I love it, but its a heavy monster and since its not whale watching or big wave surf season, I'm not sure I would use it much. I'm sure there will be some interesting birds to take pictures, but I can get buy with my 70-200 and extenders. I'm torn about leaving all the speedlights at home, the little 430EX could provide some fill flash if needed and not take up too much space.
Also looking for suggestions about things to see/do and photo locations. We have a some relatives who we will be visiting on Oahu, and I expect they know most of the good Oahu sites, but suggestions for Hawaii and Kauai would be appreciated.
Thanks
My wife and I are taking our two sons, ages 4 and 17 in June for 3 weeks. We will be splitting time between Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island. This is a family vacation. My wife and boys are pretty tolerant of my photography, but I work hard to not let it get in the way of having fun. My normal vacation routine is for me to get up super early, while they are still sleeping, do most of my landscape photography and then not do anything to keep them waiting during the day and evening.
I'm planning to take the following equipment:
- 5DsR
- 16-35 f/4 IS
- 24-70 f/4 IS (taking this over my f/2.8 II since its smaller and lighter and has IS and semi-macro, have the 35 f/2 IS for low light)
- 70-700 f/2.8 IS II
- 35 f/2 IS
- 1.4x and 2.0 x extenders
- Lightweight travel tripod and with ball head
I currently plan to leave the following at home:
- 24-70 f/2.8 II
- 50mm f/1.8 STM
- 100 f/2.8L Macro
- 300 f/2.8 II
- 6D
- 600EX-RT (x3) and 430EX-RT speedlights
I hate leaving the 300 at home, since I love it, but its a heavy monster and since its not whale watching or big wave surf season, I'm not sure I would use it much. I'm sure there will be some interesting birds to take pictures, but I can get buy with my 70-200 and extenders. I'm torn about leaving all the speedlights at home, the little 430EX could provide some fill flash if needed and not take up too much space.
Also looking for suggestions about things to see/do and photo locations. We have a some relatives who we will be visiting on Oahu, and I expect they know most of the good Oahu sites, but suggestions for Hawaii and Kauai would be appreciated.
Thanks
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ahsanford said:
I am from Oahu. Born there. Graduated from Kailua High School in 1981. I've not been back since 1982. I was a member of the Hawaii Army national Guard before moving to Tennessee and finishing up there. I know your post is nearly two years old, but your photos are more beautiful than the island itself. You've done a very fine job.
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bholliman said:
Waimea Falls. When I was there we could still jump off and there was a lifeguard. They don't allow that anymore, but they do a diving show from what I understand. Beautiful park. Dumb old me I never went to another island and back then a ticket was only $50 between islands (round trip on sale).
I'd drop the two extenders and the 35 f/2 and 24-70 f/4 and the 5DSr and the tripod. I'd take the 6D, and the 24-70 f/2.8L II instead. I'd take one flash brah.
Do not leave your gear in the rental car. Never. Not ever. Never ever. Travel as light as possible and have fun! Wish I could be you on that vacation!
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CanonFanBoy said:
Thanks for the suggestions and input! I probably am planning to take too much gear. My 5DsR and 16-35 f/4 IS are the only definate items. I'm a landscape guy and the 16-35 is supurb. It will also work nicely for the battleship tours and indoor stuff.
The 6D has a size advantage over the 5DsR and takes teriffic landscapes, but I would miss the 5D's excellent AF for kids running around.
I was thinking about locking equipment in the trunk of the rental car at times, is that a bad idea also?
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bholliman said:
If you lock your gear in the trunk do it at a location other than the one where you plan to park. Property crime is a real problem and there are people who predate tourists. Hawaii is beautiful. It is. However, there are very many people in desperate straights (drugs, no jobs, extremely high cost of living, etc.). My old high school buddies (One in Hilo on the big island and another in Waimanalo on Oahu) say things are really bad. Things are so expensive and good paying jobs so few that many of us who grew up there had to leave. There is grinding poverty. Don't assume you are welcome everywhere. You are not. Haole is a pejorative once venturing outside the tourist areas.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haole
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I didn't read the whole thread.
If you are interested in a small adventure...
Look up the mule man in KALAUPAPA (http://www.molokai.com/muleride/).
I went several years ago and highly recommend it. The mules are great. The mule ride is a pleasant ~ 90 awesome ride. Start off through nice wooded trail. You may see some sheep on the side of the mountain. The trees part and the pacific with a chain of islands explodes in front of you. Beautiful. Then you wind down a steep path and have multiple photo ops of seascapes etc. When you get to the bottom, you will be put on a bus and taken to the center of the old leprosy town (you won't catch it). If you are lucky, a surviving colony member may join you.
Anyway you will have time to photograph ruins and open working buildings. Great photo ops here too.
Also look into volcanoes, lava flows.
There is a great windy road to take on Maui but plan for abut 3 to 4 hours and rent a car. I'm not sure if you want sun up or sun down or if it matters.
sek
If you are interested in a small adventure...
Look up the mule man in KALAUPAPA (http://www.molokai.com/muleride/).
I went several years ago and highly recommend it. The mules are great. The mule ride is a pleasant ~ 90 awesome ride. Start off through nice wooded trail. You may see some sheep on the side of the mountain. The trees part and the pacific with a chain of islands explodes in front of you. Beautiful. Then you wind down a steep path and have multiple photo ops of seascapes etc. When you get to the bottom, you will be put on a bus and taken to the center of the old leprosy town (you won't catch it). If you are lucky, a surviving colony member may join you.
Anyway you will have time to photograph ruins and open working buildings. Great photo ops here too.
Also look into volcanoes, lava flows.
There is a great windy road to take on Maui but plan for abut 3 to 4 hours and rent a car. I'm not sure if you want sun up or sun down or if it matters.
sek
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Nice images here... love Kaneohe on Oahu and Makapuu is awesome but we ended up buying a place in Maui up country. Love the snorkeling/diving there, especially Honolua Bay... the best IMO. Both of my sons have Hawaiian names, that how much we dig the islands. Maui no ka oi !!!
BTW, isn't there another Maui guy here on the forum?
Question for the members here... going to dedicate a 5D3 to UW work. Any housing recommended?
Honu at Kahekili...
BTW, isn't there another Maui guy here on the forum?
Question for the members here... going to dedicate a 5D3 to UW work. Any housing recommended?
Honu at Kahekili...
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