<p>Aloha!<br>
I was in Hawaii last year and have some items to share:<br>
Waikiki: as Bob stated above me, the area is very touristy, though they are starting to cater to the upscale tourist. Perhaps the best photo op is from the Sheraton on the western edge of Waikiki. The second floor from the top (forgot the floor number) has a lounge that is open to the hotel guests. Though I was not a guest, I rang the bell on the outside and they let me in with no questions. Bring a dark cloth or towel as you will be photographing though glass and I had a big problem with reflection. This is the "aerial" shot that every one gets.<br>
Waikiki hotels: don't forget the hotels, from the historic Hawaiian Royal to the infinity pool at the Sheraton, there are some great photo ops here too.<br>
Byodo-in Temple in the Valley of the temples, is a beautiful Buddhist temple. It is especially beautiful on a cloudy/rainy day, with low hanging clouds obscuring the mountain tops behind. This is on the windward side, so cloudy/rainy is the norm, even when it is sunny in Waikiki.<br>
Manoa Falls is another beautiful site, a large water falls dropping into a small pool. The falls requires about a mile hike to the base. The hike is pretty flat and would be realtively easy, but you are walking through a humid rain forest that may slow you down. Also, this is not a secret or hidden falls. It is fairly popular, expect to share your moments with other visitors.<br>
Dole Plantation: as Bob stated, nice tour etc, but not too many photo ops.<br>
Pearl Harbor: you must go here, even if you are not taking photos. If you are, plan for an early morning visit, The light is the best, there are less crowds and the military visitors from around the world usually come at this time. I was there with military visitors from the US, Singapore, Canada, Australia and Japan (!). Men and women in uniform paying their respects is quite a moving sight. <br>
Honolulu: Oahu is criticized for being too urban, but this may be good for the photographer. The best part is the State Capitol, the skyline from the state capitol building, and Chinatown. Go to Chinatown in the early morning for shots of the locals shopping at the fruit markets. <br>
Punchbowl Cemetery: It seemed nice, but most of the monuments were closed for renovation when I went. I cannot give you better advice. <br>
Polynesian Cultural Center: maybe too touristy, and I was dragged there. However, it was much better than I expected. Plus I got some nice people shots<br>
Waimia Bay Beach: Cliff jumpers!<br>
The list can go on and on and you will probably not get everything the island has to offer. Rule of thumb: get what you can get and don't get upset. </p>