Skip to main content
Sightseeing

WildGoose Island

📍 Oahu · USA
No photos yet
3.5/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Introduction

WildGoose Island, located near Haleiwa on the north shore of Oahu along Kamehameha Highway, is a tiny, exquisite coconut-tree islet in Kawela Bay. Only a few acres in size, the island is surrounded by emerald-green water and lined with coconut palms, looking from afar like a green gem floating on the sea, one of the most iconic photography spots on Oahu's North Shore. Whether at sunrise or sunset, WildGoose Island is a must-visit for photographers and Instagrammers, with the island and sea-sky horizon having become a classic Hawaiian postcard composition. A small roadside overlook offers views of the entire island and bay, with the famous Kawela Bay beach and hiking trails nearby for combined visits. Far from Waikiki's bustle, it presents Hawaii's most pristine and serene island scenery, an essential stop on a North Shore road trip.

Highlights

1
Green Gem on the Sea
2
Sunrise and Sunset Photography
3
Kawela Bay
4
Roadside Overlook
5
Away from the Bustle

🛈 Practical Info

HoursOverlook open daily
AdmissionFree
TransportationAbout 1-hr drive from Waikiki, 10 min from Haleiwa town
Best Time to VisitSunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light; weekdays are quieter
Duration30 minutes to 1 hour recommended

💡 Tips

Sunrise offers the best light with the fewest people, the optimal time to photograph WildGoose Island.
Roadside parking is limited; pull completely off the road, use hazard lights, and watch for traffic.
Combine with Kawela Bay, Haleiwa Town, and Sunset Beach for a half or full North Shore itinerary.
A telephoto lens captures island details and coconut trees; wide-angle suits sea-sky landscapes.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting WildGoose Island?

Sunrise offers the best light with the fewest people, the optimal time to photograph WildGoose Island. Roadside parking is limited; pull completely off the road, use hazard lights, and watch for traffic.