Why Can’t I Have My Photo Session by My Ko Olina Hotel?
If you’ve spent time in Ko Olina, you already know how beautiful the lagoons are... calm water, gorgeous sandy beaches, and that perfect mix of Hawaii beauty and resort comfort. So it’s completely understandable that families staying at Aulani, the Marriott, or the Beach Villas often ask if we can do their photo session right outside their hotel.
Unfortunately, that’s one spot where I can’t photograph - and here’s why.
The Ko Olina Lagoons Are Private Property
Even though they look like public beaches, the Ko Olina lagoons (1–4) are actually man-made water features, meaning they were built by the resort and are considered private property. Because of that, outside businesses like mine aren’t allowed to operate there.
In other words, just as another company couldn’t set up shop inside your hotel’s lobby, photographers can’t run sessions on another business’s land without permission.
If we tried, there’s a good chance security could interrupt the session and ask us to leave... which isn’t fun for anyone, especially when we’re in the middle of capturing those sweet, natural moments.
So Why Can the Public Go to the Beach There?
That’s a great question!
Hawaii law requires that all shorelines remain open to the public, ensuring everyone can access the ocean. This goes back to the deep historical and cultural importance of the sea in Hawaiian life. So, while anyone can enjoy swimming, walking, or relaxing at the Ko Olina lagoons, commercial activity like professional photography is still restricted because the sand itself is privately owned. This is different than a “natural” beach that would not be private.
Where Photography Is Allowed in Ko Olina
There are actually two naturally formed beaches in Ko Olina that are not part of the man-made lagoons:
Secret Beach (behind the Four Seasons)
Paradise Cove Beach (next to Paradise Cove Luau)
Both of these are regulated by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), which means photographers can apply for state-issued permits to photograph there. These are two of my favorite nearby spots for their natural rock formations, palms, and beautiful lighting... and we can photograph there legally and comfortably.
What About Weddings or Other Sessions You’ve Seen at the Lagoons?
If you’ve seen photos of weddings or family sessions on the Ko Olina lagoons, chances are those photographers or their clients paid Ko Olina’s private photography fee, which is currently around $500 per session.
If you’re especially set on that location and are open to covering the resort’s permit fee, I’m happy to look into availability and coordinate that process for you.
If You’d Prefer to Stay at Your Hotel
If you’re hoping to have photos done right at your hotel, I completely understand. In that case, I recommend checking with your hotel’s in-house photography team. Although I don’t know the inner workings of each of the hotels, some may have special arrangements with Ko Olina that outside photographers don’t have access to. (not sure, but please feel free to ask them!). Just keep in mind that you often won’t know exactly who your photographer will be. The company stays the same, but the photographers usually rotate.
My goal is always to make sure your family has a smooth, joyful experience... whether that’s with me at a nearby permitted beach or with your hotel’s photographer.
Ready to Plan Your Ko Olina Photo Session?
If you’d like help choosing the perfect permitted beach for your session, I’d love to guide you through the options. Ko Olina has some of the most beautiful backdrops on Oahu — and with the right spot, we can capture your family exactly as you are, relaxed and connected.