As movie buffs, you may have your favorite film locations from beloved films. Yet, have you ever wondered about the awe-inspiring landscapes seen on the silver screen? Hawaii, with its captivating natural beauty and diverse landscapes, has long been a favored filming location for Hollywood. In this elaborate guide, embrace the charm of 14 top film locations stretching across the Hawaiian Islands that have graced the big screen.
Waikiki—Hawaii Five-0 (2010-Present) and Magnum P.I.
The bustling beachfront neighborhood of Waikiki in Honolulu, steeped in Hawaiian Islands biodiversity, is famous for its high-rise hotels and vibrant nightlife. Simultaneously it provides an iconic backdrop for the crime dramas Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I., captivating worldwide viewers with its tropical allure.
Diamond Head Crater Park—Lost
This well-known volcanic tuff cone had viewers wondering with Lost characters. The physical embodiment of remoteness and isolation, it provided an eerie setting for the series’ predominant theme.
Papailoa Beach—Lost
This secluded beach in Oahu, touted as one of the most beautiful worldwide, served as a home base for Lost castaways. Its serene ambiance offers a sense of real escape and solitude associated with this poignant TV series.
Molokai—Jurassic Park
The island of Molokai is definitely a memorable location because of its contribution to Jurassic Park’s high-adrenaline helicopter landing scene. Today, it is one of the most desired destinations among archaeology enthusiasts and fans of Spielberg’s epic saga.
Manawaiopuna Falls—Jurassic Park
Often referred to as “Jurassic falls,” the Manawaiopuna Falls is right where the iconic opening scene from Jurassic Park was filmed. Those Clayton waterfalls continue to captivate global adventure seekers and film buffs.
Allerton Garden—Jurassic Park
Serving as the location for Jurassic Park’s famous raptor chase scene, Allerton Garden’s lush vegetation and diverse flora provided the ideal setting for the dinosaur-infested island environment.
Napali Coast—Jurassic Park
The Napali Coast, with its dramatic cliffs plunging into the crystal-clear water, became immortalized by Hollywood as Isla Nulbar in Jurassic Park. This impressive filming location flaunts natural beauty akin to prehistoric times.
Dillingham Ranch—Lost, Hawaii Five-0, and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle
Featuring mostly on TV shows Lost and Hawaii Five-0, Dillingham Ranch is also where scenes from Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle were filmed. This Oahu working cattle ranch boasts a tasteful blend of rural charm and coastal allure.
Kualoa Ranch—Jurassic Park and 50 First Dates
Known for its distinct ridge-line and encompassing pastures, Kualoa Ranch gave life to various Jurassic Park scenes. Also, it served as the backdrop for the Adam Sandler starrer 50 First Dates, making it a must-see on any cinematic tour.
Hanamaulu Bay—Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
Used extensively in Pirates of Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, Hanamaulu Bay displays an impressive combination of scenic beauty and historical intrigue, making it perfect for a swashbuckling adventure.
Heeia Kea Harbor—Jurassic World
Known as Jurassic World’s dockside, Heeia Kea Harbor holds an allure that beyond meets the eye. This quaint harbor exudes Old Hawaiian charm while injecting action-packed excitement.
Kee Beach—The Descendants
The serene Kee Beach served as an idyllic setting for George Clooney’s heartfelt monologue towards the end of The Descendants. This North Shore beach effortlessly blends cinematic emotion with natural grandeur.
Haleiwa—The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
This quaint seaside town transforms into the post-apocalyptic world of Panem’s District 4 in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. Offering a dose of serenity and isolation, it perfectly encapsulates the movie’s desperate plight for survival.
Makapuu Point Lighthouse—50 First Dates
A key location in 50 First Dates, Makapuu Point Lighthouse burst into our collective hearts as the meeting point for Drew Barrymore’s character, making it a must-visit for all romantics.
The Final Scene
Whether you are a film buff, an adventurer or someone seeking new experiences, these top film locations offer a unique journey into the world of cinema. Wandering along these sites, you will realize that art often imitates life, especially in stunning locations like Hawaii that are inherently cinematic. From secluded beaches to dramatic cliffs, experience Hollywood magic while soaking in Hawaii’s astounding beauty and diverse landscapes. Your love for movies and travel converge here where memorable scenes were brought to life. Enjoy your cinematic adventure in Hawaii.
