The Best Places for Couples Portraits on Maui’s West Side
UPDATE: Due to the fires on Maui, specifically in Lahaina, the West Side of Maui is CLOSED to tourists until further notice. Thank you for your respect + consideration at this time.
Maui’s West side is a popular destination for couples vacationing on the island. The Lahaina/Kapalua area is one of two main resort areas on Maui and is about an hour from Kahului Airport. It is a bit far from Central Maui, but not to worry with its stunning sunsets, lush jungle, and pristine beaches, it’s no wonder why so many choose this area for their stay. There are plenty of local shops, great shopping, golf, + many adventures to be had nearby.
To give you a better idea of what your options are for photo locations, I will share a few of my favorite places to take photos.
First up, Ironwoods Beach is a crowd favorite for couples portraits. The beach is known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-blue waters, and golden sand. This location offers a variety of backdrops, including rugged cliffs, trees, and the ocean. Ironwoods is one of the only beaches on the west side of Maui where it is legal for photographers to operate, so it is quite popular. It is a huge beach, so space is rarely an issue, even when it is busy. From the small parking lot, there is a long stairway down to the beach and as with all beaches on Maui, there will be a breeze. At the end of the beach we are able to access the cliffside for some of my favorite shots with the ocean in the background. The colors here at sunset are beyond amazing.
Honolua Forest is another popular location for couples portraits on Maui’s west side. The forest is located in the Honolua Bay area and is known for its lush greenery, towering trees, and peaceful atmosphere. Because this area is sacred, when we do portraits in the forest, we treat it with the utmost respect and make our time there quick. Typically, this location is part of a 2-hour portrait session so that we can shoot at both the forest + at Ironwoods Beach. Honolua Forest is an absolutely beautiful jungle with sun rays peeking through the tall trees. It is such a magical place for photos + never fails to stun.
Want something a little different? Let’s hop in the water on Maui’s west side for a shoreline session! Getting in the water allows couples to capture their love in a fun and playful way. This can be engagement, trash the dress, or even a day after the wedding session. It’s perfect for flowy dresses or even bathing suits. It’s completely up to you!
Maui’s west side offers some of the most stunning locations for couples portraits. From Ironwoods Beach to a shoreline session, we can take advantage of the natural beauty of the area to create stunning portraits. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic location or a more intimate setting, Maui’s west side has something for everyone.
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