Posted on: July 18, 2024
Hawaii’s lush landscapes and breathtaking vistas have long made it a favored destination for filmmakers seeking the perfect backdrop for their cinematic creations. From the prehistoric jungles of “Jurassic Park” to the adventurous realms of “Jumanji,” the Hawaiian Islands have played host to some of Hollywood’s most memorable productions. Let’s take a stroll through the islands’ filmography, highlighting 6 movies filmed on the Hawaiin islands.
Jurassic Park Series (1993 – Present)
The “Jurassic Park” series stands as a testament to Hawaii’s versatility as a filming location. The islands’ rainforests, waterfalls, and cliffs have convincingly stood in for the dinosaur-inhabited isles of the franchise. Filming has taken place on Oahu, Kauai, and Maui. The first film, directed by Steven Spielberg, showcased Kauai’s Na Pali Coast and brought prehistoric wonders to life against the backdrop of Hawaii’s natural beauty.
2018’s “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom” was filmed on Halona Beach, just 12 miles from Waikiki. This was the location where Claire (Bryce Dallas Howard) and Owen (Chris Pratt) search for the last surviving velociraptor on a desolate stretch of shoreline.
Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017)
Fast-forward to the 21st century, and Hawaii once again serves as the setting for another adventure-filled blockbuster. “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” used the islands’ exotic locales to create a game world come to life, complete with all the thrills and challenges the characters face in this action-packed sequel.
In this movie, Kualoa Ranch, located in Kaneohe, Oahu, makes an appearance in the film, during the helicopter hangar scene as well as the scene in which our heroes are involved in a bike chase.
FUN FACT: Ruby Roundhouse’s outfit was influenced by that of Lara Croft, the protagonist of the Tomb Raider video games and movies. Martha mentions how impractical the outfit is to wear in the jungle.
50 First Dates (2004)
On a lighter note, “50 First Dates” combines romance and comedy against the scenic views of Oahu. Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore’s characters navigate love and memory loss amidst the island’s charm, providing viewers with a heartwarming story and stunning visuals.
The first location to make an appearance in the film is Waikane at Kanehoe Bay, which is the setting for Lucy’s family home, the Whitmore residence. Some interior shots were filmed at Kualoa Ranch and LA, but exterior ones were in Hawaii. Other notable locations include Sea Life Park in Waimanalo, where Henry works, as well as Makapuu Lighthouse in Makapuu Point, Kaneohe, where they share one of many kisses.
The Descendants (2011)
“The Descendants” offers a more dramatic take, with George Clooney’s character grappling with family and personal crises. Filmed on Oahu and Kauai, the movie presents a poignant story set against the backdrop of Hawaii’s serene beauty.
Some of the locations featured in the film include Elk’s Club Honolulu Lodge, Queen’s Medical Center, Kauai’s Kipu Ranch, and the Tahiti Nui Bar.
Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
A classic adventure movie featuring the famous fictional archeologist, Indiana Jones, “Raiders of the Lost Ark” takes place in 1936 and follows Professor Jones, who sets out to South America in search of a golden statue. Director Steven Spielberg used several locations in Hawaii for this film, such as the Kauai’s Kipu Ranch (which also appears in “The Descendants”), as well as Anahola Mountains, to serve as the setting for the booby-trapped Peruvian temple and Amazonian jungle in the popular film.
FUN FACT: “Raiders of the Lost Ark” was dreamed up while George Lucas and Steven Spielberg were on a trip in Hawaii in 1977, following the release of Star Wars.
Point Break (1991)
Starring Keanu Reeves, Patrick Swayze and Gary Busey, the original Point Break’s surf scenes were filmed at Oahu’s famed Waimea Bay. The movie follows FBI agent Johnny Utah (Reeves) as he poses as a surfer to track down a gang of bank robbers and adrenaline junkies known as the “Ex-Presidents.”
Waimea is famous for its 30-foot waves in the winter, and it is one of the top places to watch some of the world’s best and bravest surfers at work.
List of Movies Filmed in Hawaii
This list is just a sampling of the many movies that have been fully or partially filmed on the Hawaiian Islands over the years:
- Hook (1991)
- George of the Jungle (1997)
- Godzilla (1998)
- Pearl Harbor (2001)
- Planet of the Apes (2001)
- Die Another Day (2002)
- Punch-Drunk Love (2002)
- Lilo & Stitch (2002)
- The Hulk (2003)
- Finding Nemo (2003)
- Along Came Polly (2004)
- Soul Surfer (2005)
- You, Me, and Dupree (2006)
- Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008)
- Avatar (2009)
- Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011)
- Just Go With It (2011)
- The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)
- Aloha (2015)
- Snatched (2017)
- Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
- Jumanji: The Next Level (2019)
- Godzilla vs. Kong (2021)
- Jungle Cruise (2021)
- Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023)
These films are just a few examples of how the Hawaiian Islands have become a character in their own right, contributing to the storytelling of diverse genres. For visitors of Wailea Ekahi Village, the connection to these cinematic adventures adds another layer of excitement to their vacation experience. As they explore South Maui’s beachfront, they walk the same grounds that once hosted dinosaurs and adventurers alike.
Learn more about renting a property at Wailea Ekahi Village and experience a stay with “perfect views,” “exceptional community amenities,” and “well-furnished and comfortable units” as reviewed by our customers. Search our properties here: Maui Rental Properties