Skip to main content

           

           

Explore Oahu's Famous Filming Locations

Explore Oahu
written by Rodrigo Diniz

on September 10, 2024

Searching for north shore oahu filming locations can be overwhelming. Oahu has been featured in over 150 Hollywood productions. This guide reveals top movie sites across the island, from Turtle Bay Resort to Kualoa Ranch.

Explore Oahu's cinematic wonders today.

  Key Takeaways

  • Oahu has been in over 150 Hollywood films, with top spots like Turtle Bay Resort and Kualoa Ranch.
  • Famous movies shot on Oahu include "Jurassic Park," "50 First Dates," and "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides."
  • Kualoa Ranch offers a 90-minute Hollywood Movie Sites Tour, costing $36.95 for adults and $25.95 for kids in low season.
  • Pearl Harbor, Waikiki, and the North Shore are popular filming locations for movies and TV shows like "Hawaii Five-0" and "Lost."
  • Fall (September to November) is the best time to visit Oahu's movie locations, with fewer crowds and lower prices.

What are the most iconic movie sites on Oahu's North Shore?

Oahu's North Shore is a movie buff's dream. You'll find famous spots from big films like "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" and "Jurassic Park" here.

Which scenes from "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" were filmed at Turtle Bay Resort?

Turtle Bay Resort stars in key scenes of "Forgetting Sarah Marshall." Jason Segel's character stays at the resort after a breakup. The movie shows off the resort's beaches, pools, and rooms.

Hawaii Fish Tacos
  Turtle Bay Resort in Kahuku, HI

Fans can spot the lobby, bar, and oceanfront suites in many shots.

The film captures Turtle Bay's beauty and laid-back vibe. Guests can relax at the same spots as the movie's characters. The resort's 1,300 acres offer plenty of places to explore. Visitors might even see film crews working on new projects at this popular location.

How can I visit the "Jurassic Park" filming locations on the North Shore?

Oahu's North Shore hosts iconic "Jurassic Park" filming spots. Kualoa Ranch offers a 90-minute Hollywood Movie Sites Tour for fans.

  1. Book a tour at Kualoa Ranch

    • Adults pay $36.95, kids $25.95 in low season
    • See where key "Jurassic Park" scenes were shot

  2. Visit Kaaawa Valley

    • Spot the fallen tree from the T-Rex chase scene
    • Take photos of the lush, prehistoric-looking landscape

  3. Explore Hakipuu Valley

    • View the spot where the helicopter landed in the film
    • Enjoy stunning views of the Ko'olau Mountains

  4. Check out Kuoloa Point

    • See where the "Gallimimus" stampede was filmed
    • Snap pics of the breathtaking coastline

  5. Stop by Waimea Valley

    • Visit the waterfall from the first "Jurassic Park" movie
    • Enjoy a swim in the same pool as the film's stars

  6. Drive along Kamehameha Highway

Next, let's look at other blockbusters shot on Oahu's famous coastline.

What other blockbusters were shot along Oahu's famous coastline?

Oahu's coastline stars in many big movies. "Jurassic Park" filmed scenes at Kualoa Ranch in 1993. The ranch's lush valleys became home to dinosaurs. "50 First Dates" used Oahu's beaches for romantic scenes.

"Forgetting Sarah Marshall" shot at Turtle Bay Resort. The resort's beauty added to the film's charm. "Lost" TV series used various island spots for six seasons. These films show off Oahu's natural beauty to millions of viewers.

How can I tour Kualoa Ranch's famous movie filming locations?

Kualoa Ranch is a movie buff's dream. You can explore the lush valleys where "Jurassic World" came to life on guided tours.

Hawaii Fish Tacos
  Kualoa Ranch in Kaneohe, HI

Which scenes from "Jurassic World" were filmed at Kualoa Ranch?

Kualoa Ranch stars in "Jurassic World" (2015). Fans can spot the Gyrosphere Valley and Indominus Rex paddock scenes shot here. The ranch's lush landscape also appears in "Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom" (2018).

Visitors can explore these iconic spots through guided tours.

Kualoa Ranch is where dinosaurs come to life on the big screen.

Movie buffs will love seeing the real-life sets. The tours offer a chance to stand where Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard acted. You'll feel like you're in the movie, surrounded by the same stunning views.

What other TV shows and movies used Kualoa Ranch as a backdrop?

Kualoa Ranch has starred in many big hits. "50 First Dates" shot scenes there in 2004. The 1998 "Godzilla" movie also used the ranch as a backdrop. From 2004 to 2010, the TV show "Lost" filmed lots of scenes at Kualoa.

The ranch's lush valleys and steep cliffs make it perfect for jungle and island settings. Fans can spot familiar sights from "Jurassic Park," "Pearl Harbor," and "Hawaii Five-0" too.

Movie buffs love touring the ranch to see these famous spots up close.

Are there guided tours available for movie enthusiasts at Kualoa Ranch?

Yes, Kualoa Ranch offers a 90-minute Hollywood Movie Sites Tour. This tour takes fans to famous spots from big films and TV shows. Prices vary by season. In low season, adults pay $36.95 and kids $25.95.

High season costs more at $47.95 for adults and $35.95 for children. Visitors can see where scenes from "Jurassic World" were shot. The ranch also hosted other popular movies and TV series.

Let's explore some lesser-known but equally stunning film locations around Oahu.

Where can I find famous beach scenes from Hollywood movies on Oahu?

Oahu's beaches have starred in many Hollywood hits. From "Pirates of the Caribbean" to "The Hunger Games," these shores shine on screen. Want to know where to find these famous spots?

Hawaii Fish Tacos
  Halona Beach Cove on the East Side of Honolulu, HI

Which beach was featured in "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides"?

Halona Beach Cove starred in "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides" (2011). This stunning spot, also called Eternity Cove, sits on Oahu's southeast coast. Johnny Depp's Captain Jack Sparrow graced its shores in the movie's mermaid scenes.

Ahoy, matey! Welcome to Halona Beach Cove, where pirates and mermaids once roamed.

Visitors can reach this famous cove via a short hike from the Halona Blowhole lookout. The beach offers clear waters and a secluded feel, perfect for a movie-inspired swim. Fans of both "Pirates" and classic films will love this iconic Hawaiian spot.

How can I visit the beach locations from "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire"?

From pirates to dystopian futures, Oahu's beaches star in many films. "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire" used several Oahu spots for its tropical scenes.

  1. North Shore locations: Parts of the movie were shot on Oahu's famous North Shore. Visit beaches like Waimea Bay or Sunset Beach to see similar landscapes.
  2. Kawela Bay: This secluded bay served as a backdrop for some beach scenes. It's located near Turtle Bay Resort and offers a quiet spot to explore.
  3. Manoa Valley: The lush jungle scenes were filmed in this valley. Hike the popular Manoa Falls Trail to see the area's beauty up close.
  4. Guided tours: Book a movie locations tour to see exact filming spots. Many companies offer specialized "Hunger Games" tours around Oahu.
  5. DIY exploration: Rent a car and drive around the island. Use online maps or apps to find key filming locations at your own pace.
  6. Best time to visit: Go during Hawaii's dry season (April to October) for better weather. You'll have more chances to enjoy outdoor filming locations.
  7. Respect local rules: Always follow posted signs and guidelines. Some areas may be on private property or have restricted access.

What other popular movies showcased Oahu's beautiful shoreline?

Oahu's stunning beaches have starred in many other hit films. "Blue Crush" (2002) captured the thrill of surfing at Makaha and North Shore spots. The action-packed "Battleship" (2012) used Oahu's coast for alien invasion scenes.

"Soul Surfer" (2011) told the true story of surfer Bethany Hamilton, filming at Pipeline and other North Shore locations. These movies showcase Oahu's diverse shoreline, from big waves to calm coves.

Hawaii Fish Tacos
  Kualoa Ranch in Kaneohe, HI

What are some lesser-known but equally stunning film locations around Oahu?

Oahu hides many film gems beyond its famous spots. Pearl Harbor and the Windward Coast have starred in big movies too.

Which movies were filmed at Pearl Harbor and how can I visit?

Pearl Harbor's historic site has starred in many famous films. Visitors can explore these iconic movie locations through guided tours.

  • "Pearl Harbor" (2001): This blockbuster starring Ben Affleck filmed key scenes at the actual Pearl Harbor. Tours of the USS Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor Visitor Center showcase filming spots.
  • "Tora! Tora! Tora!" (1970): This war epic used Pearl Harbor for its recreation of the 1941 attack. The USS Missouri Battleship Memorial offers tours highlighting movie locations.
  • "From Here to Eternity" (1953): The classic film shot beach scenes near Pearl Harbor. Guided tours point out spots like the famous kissing scene location.
  • "Midway" (2019): Recent scenes were filmed at Ford Island and other Pearl Harbor sites. The Pacific Aviation Museum gives tours of aircraft and hangars used in the movie.
  • "In Harm's Way" (1965): John Wayne's WWII drama filmed naval scenes at Pearl Harbor. Harbor tours show naval areas featured in the film.
  • Visitor tips: Book tours early, bring a camera, and wear comfy shoes. Most tours last 2-3 hours. The best time to visit is early morning to beat crowds and heat.

Are there any famous movie locations on Oahu's Windward side?

Oahu's Windward side boasts famous movie spots. "The Descendants" (2011) filmed scenes here. George Clooney starred in this flick about a Hawaii family. Kualoa Ranch, a top film site, sits on this coast.

Many big movies used its lush valleys and beaches. "Jurassic Park" shot dino scenes at the ranch. TV shows like "Lost" and "Hawaii Five-0" also filmed there. Visitors can take tours to see these iconic spots up close.

What TV series have used Waikiki as a backdrop for their episodes?

Waikiki's sunny beaches and iconic skyline star in many TV shows. "Hawaii Five-0" filmed there from 2010 to 2020, showcasing the area's beauty. "Magnum P.I." also uses Waikiki as a key setting since 2018.

The newest addition, "NCIS: HAWAI'I," started filming in Waikiki in 2023.

These shows bring Waikiki's charm to screens worldwide. Fans can spot famous hotels, beaches, and landmarks in episodes. The mix of city life and beach scenes makes Waikiki a perfect TV backdrop.

Visitors often try to find spots they've seen on these popular series.

How has Hawaii's film industry impacted Oahu's tourism?

Hawaii's film industry has boosted Oahu's tourism big time. Movies and TV shows shot on the island draw fans from all over, eager to see famous spots in person.

What economic benefits has the film industry brought to Oahu?

The film industry has pumped millions into Oahu's economy. Movies and TV shows bring jobs and cash to the island. They hire local crew, rent gear, and book hotels. This boosts many businesses.

Tourists flock to see famous movie spots. They spend money on tours, food, and souvenirs. This helps hotels, restaurants, and shops. The film buzz keeps Oahu in the spotlight, drawing more visitors year-round.

How have filmmakers helped preserve and promote Hawaii's natural beauty?

Filmmakers showcase Hawaii's beauty in movies and TV shows. This exposure draws visitors to the islands. Many production companies work with local groups to protect nature. They follow rules to avoid harming plants and animals while filming.

Some even donate money to help keep Hawaii's landscapes pristine. Movies like "Jurassic Park" and "Lost" have sparked interest in Hawaii's lush forests and beaches. Viewers see these stunning places on screen and want to visit them in person.

This boosts tourism and helps the local economy. It also raises awareness about the need to protect Hawaii's unique ecosystems.

What tips should I know before visiting Oahu's famous movie locations?

Plan ahead for your movie location tour on Oahu. Check if sites are open to the public and respect local rules.

Are there any etiquette guidelines for visiting film sites on private property?

Respect private property when visiting film sites. Many spots are on private land. Ask for permission before entering. Don't trespass or disturb residents. Stay on marked paths and follow posted rules.

Keep noise down and don't litter. Take photos from public areas only. Leave no trace behind. Some sites offer guided tours - these are great ways to see locations without breaking rules.

Always heed warning signs and local guidelines. Your good behavior helps keep these cool spots open for other movie fans to enjoy.

What's the best time of year to tour Oahu's movie locations?

Fall is the best time to visit Oahu's movie spots. From September to November, you'll find fewer crowds and great weather. Prices for tours often drop during this off-peak season. You can explore famous sites like Kualoa Ranch or North Shore beaches in comfort.

The mild temps make outdoor activities more fun. Plus, you might catch some film crews in action during this quieter time.

Book your trip for October to get the most out of your movie location tour. The ocean is still warm for swimming at beaches from "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" or "Jurassic Park." Hiking trails used in "Jurassic World" scenes will be less muddy.

You'll have more space to snap photos at spots from "Lost" or "Hawaii Five-0" without lots of other tourists around.

Should I book guided tours or explore film locations independently?

Guided tours offer deep info and special access to movie sites. You'll learn cool facts and see spots closed to the public. But exploring on your own can be fun too. You set your own pace and save money.

Some places, like Kualoa Ranch, need tours to visit. Others, like Waikiki beaches, are free to roam. Mix it up for the best trip. Try a tour at Kualoa Ranch, then hit North Shore beaches solo.

This way, you get expert knowledge and freedom to discover.