Hawaii Mountains, Forests & Waterfalls Prints

This is an online gallery featuring forests, trees, mountains and waterfalls of Hawaii from the collection of photographer Andrew Shoemaker. All prints you see here are available for purchase on this site with custom sizing and print medium options available. To receive a custom quote and volume discounts, please Contact Andrew Shoemaker.

Related Galleries:

Maui | Oahu | Kauai | Big Island

What To Look For In Hawaiian Landscape Photos

Most people think of the picturesque beaches and coastlines when they think of Hawaiian landscapes - and for good reason, they're gorgeous. But there is so much more to Hawaii than just the beaches, like the mountains, forests and waterfalls. Here's what I look for in a Hawaii landscape scene:

Natural Beauty:
Lush greenery, vibrant colors and the blend of natural hues give forests and mountains an inherently pleasing look.

Tranquility & Serenity:
There's a solace and peacefulness to the Hawaiian landscapes that provide a nice contrast to the everyday hustle and bustle.

Sense Of Space:
The scale of a mountain or panoramic forest photo that makes you feel connected with the larger space they occupy.

Wildlife & Biodiversity:
There are so many angles of mountains and the diversity of forest life provides some of the best variety of subjects you can get.

Feel Of Adventure:
The nature you can see out of your window is great, but they don't inspire the same sense of adventure a remote mountain or forest photograph can.

Best Mountains For Nature Photography In Hawaii

Some of my best photos have come from the amazing mountain-scapes in Hawaii. These are the top mountains I can look to and why for great photos.

  • Mauna Kea: Standing at 13,796 feet (4,205 meters) on the Big Island, it's known for its observatories and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Haleakala: On Maui, Haleakala is around 10,023 feet (3,055 meters) and offers panoramic views of the volcanic crater, rock formations, and sunrises.
  • Kauai's NÄ Pali Coast: Not technically a mountain, but the coastal ridge and tower cliffs offer the same stunning looks as mountains on Hawaii.
  • Wai'ale'ale: On Kauai, Wai'ale'ale has steep cliffs that make deep valleys often shrouded in mist and clouds.
  • Ko'olau Range: Featuring dramatic ridgelines, tall waterfalls and dense rainforest scenery make it a jewel of the islands.
  • Mauna Loa: The summit isn't accessible but the panoramic views on or surrounding the volcano on the Big Island are glorious and it's part of a national park.

Best Forests For Nature Photography In Hawaii

There are no bad forests for nature photos in Hawaii. You can find a jaw-dropping picture all over the islands, but here are some of my favorite forests to visit and shoot photos.

  • Waipio Valley Forest, Big Island: Known for it's dense tropical forests, waterfalls and streams.
  • Akaka Falls State Park, Big Island: A state park on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island is famous for its towering Akaka Falls and rainforest.
  • Ho'olawa Valley, Maui: Located on the eastern coast of Maui, Ho'olawa Valley is a hidden gem with many remote and untouched areas.
  • Pololu Valley, Big Island: Situated on the northern coast of the Big Island, Pololu Valley has a black sand beach and rugged coastline to go with green forested cliffs.
  • Pu'u O Kila Lookout, Kauai: Located in Koke'e State Park, Pu'u O Kila Lookout offers views of the Kalalau Valley and the majestic Na Pali Coast.
  • Manoa Falls, Oahu: Situated just outside of Honolulu, Manoa Falls is a tropical rainforest with a diverse ecosystem with towering trees, ferns, bamboo and fauna.

Best Waterfalls For Nature Photography In Hawaii

You'll probably recognize these waterfalls from photos or TV & film as they've been featured many times for their stunning beauty. There are many great waterfalls to visit, but these four are the most popular:

  • Akaka Falls, Big Island: Akaka Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Hawaii located in the Akaka Falls State Park.
  • Wailua Falls, Kauai: Along the Wailua River State Park on the eastern side of Kauai, Wailua Falls is a twin waterfall cascading down an impressive 80 feet (24 meters).
  • Manoa Falls, Oahu: Located in the Manoa Valley just outside of Honolulu, Manoa Falls is a picturesque waterfall that stands at approximately 150 feet (46 meters) tall.
  • Rainbow Falls, Big Island: Situated just a few miles outside of Hilo it's known for its stunning rainbow formations that can sometimes be seen in the mist.