A Special Day in the Ocean 🐬
If you know me, you probably know that I love the ocean.
Surfing, swimming, exploring… if there is a reason to get in the water, I’m usually in. 😂
Living on Oʻahu, the ocean is such a big part of everyday life for me. Sometimes I go surfing, sometimes I swim, and sometimes I just want to be in the water and see what the day brings. And you never really know what you might see out there.
Seeing Dolphins in Hawaii
Recently, while I was swimming in the ocean, I had one of those unforgettable Hawaii moments.
I saw dolphins! 🐬
There is something so special about seeing dolphins in the wild. Watching them move through the water, completely in their own world, is a reminder of how amazing the ocean around Hawaii really is.
Respecting Hawaii’s Ocean Wildlife
But there is something important to know when it comes to seeing dolphins in Hawaii.
Hawaiian spinner dolphins are protected, and there are specific rules about how close we can get to them. In Hawaii, it is illegal to swim with, approach, or remain within 50 yards of a spinner dolphin. If a dolphin happens to come closer on its own, we should not chase or interact with it, and we should move away.
I think that is such an important part of enjoying Hawaii’s ocean.
The ocean is not just our playground. It is home.
Home to dolphins, honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles 🐢), Hawaiian monk seals, colorful fish, and, during whale season, some very special visitors from the north.
If you are lucky enough to see a honu or a Hawaiian monk seal, remember to give them plenty of space, too. They are wild animals, and the best way to enjoy seeing them is to let them enjoy the ocean in peace.
Whale Watching on Oahu
Every winter, humpback whales return to Hawaii, and Oahu has some wonderful places to see them from shore.
One of my favorite places to recommend for whale watching on Oahu is the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail.
During whale season, usually from November through May, you can look out over the deep blue Pacific and sometimes spot humpback whales from the trail. Bring binoculars if you have them! 🐋
You don’t always need to be on a boat to enjoy whale watching in Hawaii. Sometimes, all you need is a beautiful view, a little patience, and a lucky moment.
Why I Love Living and Photographing Families in Hawai
These are some of the little things I love about living in Hawaii.
The ocean, the wildlife, the unexpected moments… They are all part of what makes Oahu feel so special to me.
And maybe that is also one of the reasons I love being a photographer here.
As a Hawaii photographer, I get to meet families visiting Oʻahu from all over the world. I love capturing the moments that happen naturally—the laughter, the hugs, the little looks between family members, and all those in-between moments that make a Hawaii vacation yours.
Of course, you can come to Hawaii for the beaches, the sunshine, and the beautiful scenery.
But I hope you also take a moment to slow down and experience the island.
Feel the ocean breeze.
Listen to the waves.
Look out for a honu.
Keep an eye out for whales during whale season.
And if you are lucky enough to see dolphins, enjoy the moment from a respectful distance. 🐬🌺
That’s a little glimpse into one of my favorite things about living in Hawaii.
The ocean.
I’ll see you out there. 🌊
Planning a Family Trip to Oahu?
If you’re visiting Hawaii with your family and would love to capture some of your own memories here, I’d be happy to photograph them for you. 🌺
