Engagement Session At Kukio On The Big Island, Hawaii

Megan & Steven's celebration for their engagement at Kikaua Point.

I had the pleasure of photographing Steven and Megan’s engagement session at the stunning Kikaua Point. Nestled near Kukio and the Hualalai resort area, Kikaua Point is known for its white sand beaches, palm groves, and rocky tide pools. It’s the kind of secluded spot that’s ideal for couples looking to capture intimate moments away from the busier beaches on the Big Island. The limited parking and the serene atmosphere made it perfect for Steven and Megan’s photoshoot.

The couple had traveled to Hawaii with Megan’s family to celebrate their engagement, and they chose this beautiful spot to capture their joy. With the evening sun casting a warm glow and the gentle island breeze, the setting couldn’t have been better for a golden hour engagement session.

Steven and Megan's session was intimate and full of fun. Right from the start, it was clear that this couple was comfortable in front of the camera. Megan’s gentle yet confident expressions and Steven’s relaxed demeanor brought a natural chemistry to the session. They were one of those couples who didn’t need much direction—just a few suggestions on where to stand or how to position their hands, and they effortlessly created beautiful, candid moments.

We captured a mixture of wide landscape shots, where the tide pools and palm trees framed them beautifully, as well as close-up intimate photos. The backlit glow from the setting sun highlighted the couple's love and connection, creating a gallery that reflected their relationship in the most genuine way. If you’re planning a shoot in Hawaii, the lighting and environment at Kikaua Point during golden hour is unbeatable Hawaii Island Information.

Megan’s family joined the session, adding an extra layer of significance to the shoot. Her parents, sister, and sister’s boyfriend were there to witness and celebrate this special moment. While they didn’t actively participate in the session, their presence added to the sense of joy and togetherness that defined the day. Watching Steven and Megan interact with each other while knowing they were surrounded by the love of their family made the session even more meaningful.

Though the couple kept the shoot simple with no props, the natural beauty of the location did all the work. Kikaua Point is a location that gives you a wide variety of backdrops in a small, accessible area—perfect for couples who want a little bit of everything in their engagement gallery.

For couples looking for a quieter, more secluded spot on the Big Island, Kikaua Point is ideal. It’s not only beautiful but also versatile. The mix of soft sand, rugged rocks, and towering palm trees offers a diversity of scenery that can really enhance your gallery. Plus, the relatively low foot traffic allows for more privacy during your session. It's easy to see why it's a favorite for engagement shoots, especially with golden hour lighting creating that magical glow. For those who might be planning a longer stay on the Big Island, consider setting up a romantic picnic with a local vendor like Malama Luxury Picnics to make the experience even more special. A setup like this would add that extra touch of romance and create an even more intimate environment for a shoot or proposal.

If you're considering an engagement shoot in Hawaii, Kikaua Point should definitely be on your list for its scenery and the chance to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments without distraction.

When planning your engagement session at Kikaua Point, here are a few tips to ensure you get the most out of your experience:

Timing is Key: If you want those stunning sunset photos, make sure to plan your session around golden hour. The way the sunlight filters through the palm trees and glistens off the water during this time is truly magical. Consider checking the sunset times and working backward to create your timeline.
Outfit Choices: I recommend bringing at least two outfits—a mix of something casual, like a jean and swimsuit top combo, and a more elegant option, like a flowy dress. These outfit changes will give you a variety of looks that complement the scenery at Kikaua Point.
Keep it Intimate: While it’s lovely to have family involved in the celebrations, keeping your engagement session just between the two of you allows for more focus on your relationship. You can always celebrate with your family afterward, but during the session, being present and relaxed with each other will create those natural, candid moments.
Location and Parking: Remember that parking at Kikaua Point is limited, so it’s a good idea to arrive a little early to ensure you get a spot. There may be one or two other photographers, but the overall atmosphere is quiet and private, making it an ideal location for an engagement session.
Personal Touches: Think about incorporating small personal elements into your shoot. While Steven and Megan kept things simple, adding a picnic, like those offered by Malama Luxury Picnics, or even a bouquet could add a special touch to your session. These little details help tell the full story of your relationship.

If you’re considering an engagement session or even a wedding on the Big Island, my Engagements Page has all the information you need to plan the perfect day. I love working with couples to create a gallery that reflects their love story in the most genuine way possible, capturing both the big and small moments that make your relationship unique. You can also check out my Portfolio for more inspiration from past sessions and weddings.

If you’re ready to start planning or want to get in touch, feel free to visit the Blog Section for more tips and stories, or reach out directly through my contact page. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding or a simple engagement shoot, Hawaii’s diverse and stunning landscapes will give you memories—and photos—to last a lifetime.