Location Showcase: Kakaako Waterfront Park, Downtown Honolulu

By, Jolene Kaneshige - Ninja Photographer

Just South of Downtown Honolulu is Kakaako Waterfront Park, also known as “Point Panic Park,” (for surf/bodyboarders). It’s about a 10-15 minute drive from Waikiki and a little tucked away, located where Ala Moana Boulevard meets Cook Street, and right around the corner from John A. Burns School of Medicine (part of the University of Hawaii at Manoa) and the Children’s Discovery Center. Kakaako Waterfront park opened in 1992 and features 35 acres which include a beach walk, 2 memorials, amphitheater, industrial and scenic views, and beautiful grassy rolling hills.

Whether you are planning a surprise engagement proposal, getting married, on a little picnic date, jogging, watching the sunset, catching the surf, or have the random urge to go cardboard sliding down a grassy hill (as we have all done this many a time growing up and fairly recently! Yup…still got it); this park has quite a bit to offer! Not only is it close to Waikiki and has a unique landscape, it’s not as frequented by tourist, and has ample free parking.

The best time to take photos at this venue is in the early mornings and late afternoons. During the summer, in May, the sunsets around 7pm so the best time to get started on a surprise engagement proposal or wedding, family, or portrait photo session would be around 6:15-6:30pm.

The best spots to take photos are to the right of the park entrance. Follow the pathway a little past the restroom and you see a big grassy hill. There are several grassy hills in the park, but this is the best one that is closest to the sunset. Keep in mind that this is a well known and popular spot. There are also some sharp thrones which hide in the grass so bringing a thick mat or beach towel is highly recommended.

Also, please do not leave any personal belongings unattended (this goes rule applies not only for this area, but anywhere in Hawaii). Stay safe and contact us for more information about surprise engagement photography packages!

To read about other great proposal locations see: Lanikai Beach, Waimanalo Beach, or send us a message! Let’s get planning!