Hawaii in Movies and TV: Famous Filming Locations You Can Visit
Just a short drive north of Honolulu, the lush landscapes of Kualoa Ranch on Oahu offer a gateway to some of Hawaii’s most iconic film locations. Nestled about 40 minutes from the city, this private nature reserve has served as the backdrop for blockbusters like “Jurassic Park” and “Kong: Skull Island.” Visitors can book guided tours that take them through verdant valleys and limestone cliffs, following trails once traversed by dinosaurs on the big screen. The ranch’s dramatic mountain ridges and open pastures set it apart from other Hawaiian parks, delivering otherworldly vistas that feel both tropical and prehistoric. Early morning tours are especially magical, as mist lingers among the peaks and the light softens the rugged terrain, creating perfect photo opportunities.
On the island of Kauai, the Napali Coast is a cinematic treasure trove, famously featured in movies like “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “King Kong.” About an hour and a half north of Lihue, the Kalalau Trail offers a challenging 11-mile trek along this rugged coastline, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of sheer cliffs plunging into turquoise waters. The trail’s difficulty and remote campsites make it a serious adventure, but the dramatic sea arches and hidden beaches are unmatched anywhere else in Hawaii. Visiting during the dry season from April to October ensures safer trail conditions and clearer skies, allowing visitors to fully absorb the wild beauty that filmmakers have captured for decades.
Just outside the town of Kailua-Kona on the Big Island, the lava fields of South Kohala set the scene for “50 First Dates” and “The Descendants.” Driving about 30 minutes north of Kona, Pu’u Wa’awa’a Ranch offers insight into the volcanic terrain that reshapes the island’s geography. Hikers can explore trails weaving through hardened lava flows and native shrublands, witnessing firsthand the stark contrast between new and old earth. The ranch’s location near the coast provides sweeping views of the blue Pacific, making it a unique spot where volcanic geology meets oceanic expanse. Visiting during the cooler months from November to March makes hiking more comfortable, avoiding the intense midday sun that can dominate the dry season.
In the heart of Maui, the town of Lahaina is steeped in Hollywood history, having starred in the classic TV series “Hawaii Five-0.” Located about 45 minutes west of Kahului, this historic whaling village has maintained its 19th-century charm with preserved buildings, art galleries, and waterfront eateries. Strolling down Front Street, visitors find themselves walking the same streets where detectives once chased villains on screen. Lahaina’s blend of old Hawaiian culture and vibrant tourist life creates a unique atmosphere unmatched by Honolulu’s urban sprawl. Sunset is the perfect time to visit, as the sky ignites with color over the harbor, echoing scenes from many films and shows.
On the island of Molokai, the Halawa Valley stands as a quieter, less commercialized setting that appeared in the film “South Pacific.” Situated about 45 minutes east of Kaunakakai, this lush valley offers guided hikes to sacred waterfalls and ancient Hawaiian temples, or heiau. The trail to Moa’ula Falls, about three miles roundtrip, features thick tropical forest and vibrant native flora, culminating in a stunning waterfall plunge pool. Halawa’s cultural significance and untouched beauty provide a stark contrast to Hawaii’s more tourist-heavy spots, giving visitors a glimpse into the islands’ deep-rooted traditions. The best time to visit is during the rainy season from November to March when the falls flow at their fullest and the valley’s greenery is most vibrant.
On Oahu’s windward side, the Byodo-In Temple in the Valley of the Temples near Kaneohe has become a popular filming location featured in movies like “Pearl Harbor.” About 30 minutes northeast of Honolulu, this serene Buddhist temple replica is set against the backdrop of the Ko’olau Mountains. Visitors can stroll the tranquil grounds, feed koi in the ponds, and admire the striking architecture that echoes Japan’s centuries-old heritage. The temple’s peaceful ambiance and lush mountain setting make it a unique cultural site that contrasts with Hawaii’s more tropical imagery. Early morning visits offer calm and quiet before tour groups arrive, enhancing the meditative experience.
Finally, on the Big Island’s Hamakua Coast, Akaka Falls State Park near Hilo showcases one of the island’s most stunning natural wonders and has appeared in various documentaries and films highlighting Hawaii’s lush landscapes. Just a 20-minute drive north of Hilo, this park features a relatively easy half-mile loop trail through a tropical rainforest filled with exotic flowers and bamboo groves. The trail culminates in the spectacular 442-foot Akaka Falls, a thunderous cascade plunging into a deep gorge. The park’s accessibility and dramatic waterfall set it apart from other hiking spots on the island, making it a must-see for visitors. Visiting early in the day allows for the best light on the falls and avoids afternoon showers common in the rainforest.
Each of these places offers a tangible connection to the movies and TV shows that have immortalized Hawaii’s landscapes and culture. Whether hiking through volcanic valleys, exploring historic towns, or simply soaking in panoramic views, travelers can walk in the footsteps of their favorite films while experiencing the islands’ rich natural and cultural heritage firsthand.